Keeping Your Hair and Makeup On-Brand for Professional Headshots

It’s 2026, and makeup advice is everywhere. YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram are full of tutorials showing bold looks, heavy contour, and glowing skin. While that works for social media, it’s not always helpful when you’re preparing for professional headshots.

Professional headshots have a different purpose. The goal isn’t glam or trends—it’s to look polished, confident, and aligned with how you want to be seen at work. That’s why the most important makeup tips for headshots start with intention. Makeup for professional headshots should be clean and balanced. A well-matched foundation, natural lashes, and controlled shine are essential. Heavy highlight or overly glossy products tend to reflect light and distract on camera. The focus should stay on your expression, not your makeup.

A question I always ask clients is: Do you normally wear makeup?If you do, your headshot makeup should feel like you—just elevated. More refined, more intentional, but still familiar. Here is a modern headshot of our amazing client Michelle Gaudette - Keller Williams Realty Evolution. I did a natural makeup look for her headshot.

Modern Headshots Boston

Boston Headshot Photographer

If you don’t usually wear makeup and don’t plan to start, that’s completely fine. For headshots, makeup isn’t about changing who you are. It’s about looking rested, even-toned, and professional. Polished, not glam.

That’s why my modern headshot sessions include professional makeup application. I adjust the look based on your comfort level and goals—using as much or as little makeup as needed to help you look your best on camera.

Hair matters just as much. For professional headshots, hair should stay on brand but feel slightly more refined than everyday styling. Frizz and flyaways don’t photograph well, so I’m constantly making small adjustments during the session. Clean lines and balance around the face make a big difference.

I usually avoid ponytails for headshots, and I’m very mindful of hair placement. Too much hair sitting heavily on the shoulders can distract from the face. Hair should frame you, not compete with you. Ultimately, your hair and makeup should flatter your headshots—not overpower them.

Before your session, think about who these images are for. Are you speaking to potential clients, leadership, or an internal role? Your audience should guide your hair and makeup choices.

When your hair and makeup are on brand, your professional headshots feel confident, timeless, and easy to use across every platform.

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Miriam Meza is a Boston North Shore -based photographer with over 10 years of experience specializing in headshots and Portrait Photography. With a background in makeup artistry and hairstyling Miriam combines her skills to help clients feel confident and look their best in front of the camera. She is passionate about helping small business owners and solopreneurs elevate their professional image through personalized photography services. For more info contact her info@miriammeza.com