You’ve heard the old adage that first impressions count. As a business person it’s more important than ever these days. Having a professional business portrait is the first step. Knowing what to wear is essential in making that portrait more powerful than ever.

Business Attire or Business Casual?

Much depends on the goal for your portrait. Is this an executive portrait or for you're social media profile or business cards? Is this for your website About page or for your promotional materials? Understanding your final use is key in determining what to wear. We do offer Business Packages that allow for different outfits and poses to satisfy the business person with multiple image needs. 

My advice is if most of your clients see you in a suit and tie or for women a business suit most of the time then that’s what you need to wear for your portrait. If on the other hand you lean more towards business casual day to day then formal business attire is probably not necessary.

Men’s Attire

For men we recommend either a suit and tie (depending on your normal business outfit) or an open collared shirt with a jacket. It’s best to avoid really bright colors or wildly patterned ties. If you prefer a shirt without jacket then we recommend a solid color (non white) shirt. For 3/4 or full length Business Casual portraits we recommend khakis or jeans.

Women’s Attire

For women either a business suit or nice blouse with a jacket. Solid colors work best; stay away from busy patterns or really bright colors (neon colors or bright reds). If you prefer a blouse or dress alone (no jacket) then we recommend 3/4 or long sleeve. It’s also best to avoid low cut blouses as the final image use may crop in an unflattering way. Necklaces are fine but bear in mind that much might be cropped out in the final use.

Understanding what types of clothes to wear for your business portrait will help you to put your best foot forward in the business world.