You’ll only make your first impression once! – how to prepare for a business session

 

You only make a first impression once!

That’s why it’s worth making sure that the portrait you present on social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, or your website is intentional and communicates exactly what you want to convey to the world.

What to expect from a good portrait?

It should reflect your personality while also portraying you in a favorable light. In face-to-face interactions, besides verbal communication, we observe tone of voice, body language, and facial expressions. With such a large influx of stimuli, our brain must decide which information takes priority. Therefore, in person, the impression we leave on the recipient depends less on wardrobe details than in the case of a portrait.

A portrait is a moment frozen in time. Our brain has plenty of time to critically examine all the details, like your clothing. Hence, it’s essential to ensure that your attire looks good on you.

General advice: It’s good to be excessive with styling – having a slightly larger clothing selection during the session is better.

Dear Sir, please don’t be afraid of suits!

Together with a shirt and tie, they’re the basic ensemble that guarantees a good portrait.

Extremely important: Ensure that your clothing is ironed, free of defects such as wear or stains, etc.

For the session, we bring clothes on hangers. This way, we avoid wrinkles that might occur during transportation.

It’s very important that your shirt and jacket are the right size. I mean a well-fitted shirt and jacket that match our current posture – sleeves of the proper length, so the shirt cuff shows about 1 cm from the jacket sleeve.

It might be surprising, but from my observations, gentlemen more often than ladies don’t pay attention to having our clothing in the perfect size.

If you don’t usually wear a tie – you can skip it. Approach colors with calmness. Navy or gray jackets work well, but be cautious with black, as it might not add charm. The best shirt choice is plain white. Avoid fabrics with distinct small patterns and prominent textures. If you prefer a casual style, you have more flexibility, but remember: the outfit should be properly size-fitted.

Dear Madam, it’s easier for you!

But it’s still a challenge, as you have more freedom in selecting a classic outfit, so think your choice through. A suit in various options will work great: skirt, trousers, jacket, or a suit.

Elegant dresses with a simple cut also present very well.

Likewise, as with gentlemen, avoid patterned fabrics and loud colors. For light shades, dark-colored jackets will work better.

If you’re in the mood for a neckline – OK, but let it be subtle; provocative outfits aren’t appropriate in this case 😉

If you prefer a casual style, choose muted colors. Elegance never goes out of style. And one more important thing, if you don’t leave the house without makeup. Make an exception before the session. Come to the photoshoot fresh – there’s no need to irritate the skin by removing makeup, only to apply new, professional makeup!

And finally, a note to everyone. If your company doesn’t have a very strictly defined dress code, wear what makes you feel comfortable. To achieve optimal results, make sure to get a good and deep sleep before the session.

If you’d like, you can seek the help of a professional stylist who will prepare clothing sets for your session. Article on styling

Remember – a good portrait is an investment that will serve you for years.”