What to Wear for Portraits & Headshots in Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Carson City, & Reno
One of the most common questions I hear before a portrait or headshot session is: “What should I wear?”
It’s normal to feel nervous about clothing choices, but the truth is, you don’t need to overthink it. The right outfit will help you look confident, approachable, and authentic in your portraits.
Whether we’re meeting in around beautiful North Lake Tahoe, Truckee, Carson City, or Reno, these simple guidelines will help you choose the best clothing for your headshots or portraits.
Keep It Neutral and Timeless
Neutral outfits are always a safe bet unless we’re planning a stylized shoot. Solid whites, blacks, grays, and muted tones photograph beautifully and keep the focus where it belongs, on you.
If you’d like a little color, choose softer shades that complement your natural features: muted blues and greens, or earthy reds and oranges often work well.
Avoid: neon colors, bright oranges, and anything significantly lighter than your skin tone. These tend to distract the eye and can throw off skin tones in your portraits.
Skip Loud Patterns and Logos
Your headshot should highlight your personality and professionalism, not your wardrobe. Bold stripes, busy patterns, and branded logos tend to dominate a photo. Solid colors are the best choice, especially for professional headshots.
That said, if you’re booking a more creative portrait session, we can absolutely incorporate stylized clothing choices that reflect your unique style.
Dress for Your Industry
Think about your audience when choosing your outfit. For professional headshots, ask yourself: What would I wear to meet an important client?
Corporate headshots: business attire such as a blazer, button-up, or professional blouse.
Creative industries: a more casual but polished look, like a fitted sweater or collared shirt.
Outdoor portraits in Lake Tahoe or Truckee: clothing that looks natural in the environment but still keeps you looking sharp.
Layering & Fit
Layers can add depth to your look, but keep them simple. Choose lighter tones for your inner layers and darker tones for your outer layers.
Most importantly, make sure your clothing fits comfortably. If it’s too tight around your neck, shoulders, or chest, that’s exactly what the camera will highlight.
Details Matter
The little things can make a big difference:
Clothing prep: Ensure your clothes are clean, pressed, and wrinkle-free. I have a lint roller just in case.
Jewelry: Simple necklaces and earrings add a touch of polish without overpowering your face.
Makeup: Keep it light, matte, and natural. Glossy or shiny makeup can reflect light in unflattering ways. A lipstick that’s a touch darker than your natural lip color works beautifully.
Glasses: They’re fine to wear, just make sure they’re spotless before the session. I’ll have lens cleaning wipes if needed.
Seasonal & Location Considerations in Tahoe & Truckee
If you’re desiring portrait sessions outdoors around North Lake Tahoe and Truckee, it’s worth thinking about the season:
Winter portraits: Choose layers that look clean, like solid coats, scarves, and neutral sweaters. These photograph better than bulky ski jackets.
Summer portraits: Avoid shiny or sweat-prone fabrics. Lighter, breathable materials in muted colors work best under the sun.
Fall portraits: Earth tones like rust, olive, and deep blues look great against the changing leaves.
If your session is in Reno or Carson City, where we may shoot indoors or downtown, classic neutrals and professional attire are always a safe choice.
In Summary: Do’s and Don’ts
DO dress in neutral, solid colors that flatter your skin tone.
DO choose clothing that fits well and makes you feel confident.
DON’T wear neon colors, loud patterns, or logos that distract from your face.
DON’T let your clothing upstage you; your personality should be the highlight.
You can read this article for more portrait & headshot preparation tips.
Ready to Book Your Portrait or Headshot Session?
Choosing what to wear doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these guidelines, you’ll look professional and natural in your portraits, whether it’s for a professional headshot in Reno or Carson City, or a lifestyle portrait session in North Lake Tahoe or Truckee.
If you’re still unsure, I’m always happy to help you select an outfit that photographs well.
When you’re ready, book your portrait or headshot session here and let’s create images you’ll be proud to share.