Preparing for headshots can feel like a lot, but there are some very key things to keep in mind in the days leading up to your session that will help you get the best results. 

Drink Water, not Booze

Salty food and boozy drinks can bloat your face, which is a pretty key part of headshots. So avoid those as much as possible and drink water generously. 

Get Sleep

Easier said than done! Needing sleep is a sure fire way to not be able to get any, amiright? Well, try anyway. Do all the things to wind down and take care of yourself the night before your shoot. Your undereyes will thank you.

Pro tip: Magic undereye creams. They work! And they can help conceal a poor night's sleep. Also Photoshop. Basically, I'm saying try but don't stress.

Try to Avoid Sports

We've had clients get hit in the face with frisbees. Frisbees people. Don't stop L-I-V-I-N'n in the days leading up to headshots, but maybe don't do stuff where things fly at your face either.

Groom Thyself

If you don't want a unibrow in your headshots, carefully do some plucking 4-5 days before your shoot. Shave/wax with care if you don't want facial hair. Pull out a gray or two if they bother you, and get your nails done if you like that kind of thing. Know what is important to you when you present yourself, and look that way. Think of this as your first agency meeting and prepare yourself accordingly.

Care for Your Skin

Try a gentle moisturizing mask the night before (but not for the first time in case you have an unusual reaction). Wear sunscreen so you're not sunburned or overly tanned for your session. And because it's good for you. This is really a note to myself now.

Care for Your Hair

Yes, get your roots touched up and trim as needed but don't get a major chop 2 days before a shoot. If you plan to get a cut and/or color be sure to give yourself time to live with it and let it settle before your session. Most photographers have a grace period where you won't lose your deposit or holding fee (ours is 5 days). Give yourself time in case you need to reschedule.

Oh, also make sure your hair is clean. Might seem like it goes without saying, but there's a reason all these tips are here.

Shit Happens

A really specific tip here: a bandage is harder to photoshop than a clear coating on a small wound. Get yourself some Liquid Skin if you have a small cut anywhere that could be visible.

Image Credit: 40-Year-Old Virgin