The suggestions below are general guidelines only. Please defer to any more specific instructions your firm provides.

Please note that your firm’s requirements include a mid-body photo:

Be prepared for your mid-body to appear in the image. Mid-body photos will be most flattering if your clothes fit well, so please ensure your jacket buttons comfortably and skirts or pants have a comfortable waistline and appropriate length. Except for neckties or scarves, solid colors without patterns or visible textures are recommended but not required.

Please avoid:
Avoid clothes with small checks or fine houndstooth patterns. Both reproduce poorly on computer monitors. Avoid tinted glasses or lenses that darken under bright light. Avoid very vivid colors (neons) and patterns that will draw a viewer’s attention away from your face.

Fit and style:
Fit is crucial. Your jacket and shirt should button comfortably without bunching. Dress in a classic style if you plan to use your portrait for several years. If in doubt, pair a dark jacket and light-colored shirt. Avoid vivid or trendy colors and accessories. Glasses with anti-reflective coatings are preferred.

Tips for men’s clothing:
Most firms prefer a collared shirt, tie, and jacket. Avoid fabrics with patterns when possible. Please be sure your shirt collar buttons snugly without being restrictive. Your shirt front should not wrinkle when your jacket is buttoned. Tie knots should be snug, neat, and symmetrical. Button-down collars should lie flat instead of curling.

Tips for ladies’ clothing:
Clothing should be “client meeting” appropriate. While jackets are not always required, many firms prefer that your outfit have sleeves. It is usually best to keep jewelry simple. Check your firm’s website to see how your photo will be cropped if you are considering wearing a large necklace or lower neckline. Most firms prefer necklines not to be lower than an inch below the collarbone.

Makeup:
Makeup is not required. If you wish to wear makeup, a typical everyday look is preferred. If you are having makeup done professionally, please tell the artist it’s for a formal photograph, as it will affect the style and products used. Most portraits are retouched before delivery, so small blemishes are not a cause for concern.

Hair:
If your hairstyle is very short, have it cut a few days in advance so that it will not appear atypically close on your bio page. If you are particular about your hairstyle in photos, consider having your hair done or “blown out” shortly before your session. If your hair is longer than shoulder-length, consider whether you prefer it in front, behind your shoulders, or put up before you arrive.

Beards:
If you have an afternoon portrait session, a fresh shave will prevent a “5 o’clock shadow.”