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Note: This article was written for actors – if you're not an actor, visit our other guide called "What to Wear for a Professional Headshot."
Believe it or not, we once had a client show up to a photoshoot with a ripped, dirty t-shirt and stained jeans.
True story. But the craziest part? He was scheduled for a 3-hour, multi-look headshot session with us, and that was the only outfit he brought. We had to get really creative. A few months later, an actor showed up wearing a full tux and red bowtie, thinking he needed to dress up "a bit" for his headshots. Yes, that's also a true story. Because of crazy situations like that, we decided to put together this in-depth guide on what to wear for a headshot so no one would ever show up to a shoot again with the wrong headshot outfits! 
What to Wear for Headshots: The Ultimate GuideBy the end of this guide, you'll know exactly what to wear for your actor headshots... and what NOT to wear. Remember – wearing the wrong thing could cause a casting director to throw your headshot out! Here's what's covered:
Ready to get started?
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Downloaded by over 1,300 actors so far.
"LOVED this!!! THANK YOU! Types I've narrowed down to - Edgy Business Pro, Punky Mom, Sexy Rockstar, Love Interest, Leading Lady, Sexy Powerhouse Boss, and CEO. Fun and SO HELPFUL! Scheduled another photo shoot now to really capture these characters discovered!! Honestly, THANK YOU, this tool has been invaluable for me!!"
-Kate J.
Step 2: Decide on Clothing That Supports Your Types:
Once you decide on at least 3-4 Types you can play, you should decide on the styles of clothing that supports those Types.
For instance, if you think one of your Types is street thug, you probably wouldn't wear a business suit for your headshot. It would be better to wear a leather jacket or hoody. If you're going for "Young Mom," you might want to wear chambray shirt.
To figure out exactly what style of clothing to wear, go to Google Image Search and search your Type(s). For instance, type in "street thug." Photos will come up of people who look like that, and you'll instantly know the kinds of clothes to wear.
Notice how we did this in reverse order from what most actors do. Most actors look for simple guides that say what generally looks good on camera and what doesn't, but those guides don't take into consideration the kinds of roles that will actually have the highest shot of getting you auditions.
Now, if you're concerned about pigeonholing yourself into one particular Type by being too specific, you should try doing a few different "looks" for your shoot. Capturing multiple different "Type" shots that are each specific will allow you to submit to a wider variety of auditions, but they'll still be specific enough that your shots will result in plenty of auditions.
As an overall takeaway, NEVER wear generic clothing in your headshot because it will result in a shot that rarely gets you auditions.
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Part 2 of 4: What Should You NOT Wear for a Headshot?
Now that you've decided on general clothing styles that supports your Types, you need to be sure what you wear won't be distracting or problematic on camera.
We'll go through a series of Don't's in this section.
We'll go through a series of Don't's in this section.
Don't Wear Strong Patterns
Keep away from plaid, checks, and anything that has high-contrast colors right next to one-another. The only patterns that can work are subtle ones with a slight variance in color.
Patterns generally draw too much attention and appear distracting, and some patterns (especially small ones) can cause a phenomenon called moire where it looks like there's a weird pattern showing up on-camera that's invisible in real-life because of the way the pixels on the camera work:
Patterns generally draw too much attention and appear distracting, and some patterns (especially small ones) can cause a phenomenon called moire where it looks like there's a weird pattern showing up on-camera that's invisible in real-life because of the way the pixels on the camera work:
An example of moire.
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There is no moire, but this pattern is very distracting. As a side note, his smile isn't very good in this picture either.
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Don't Wear Logos or Pictures
Logos and images are incredibly distracting and definitely don't work for actor headshots. If you have a shirt with a small logo such as a Ralph Lauren polo shirt, it can usually be photoshopped out (just be sure your photographer includes retouching in your package).
The only time a logo or picture is OK is if it's being used on your actor website – don't use it for submissions or casting directors will toss it!
The only time a logo or picture is OK is if it's being used on your actor website – don't use it for submissions or casting directors will toss it!
Don't Wear Too Many Accessories
Should you wear jewelry in a headshot? Not unless you're just wearing tiny stud earrings.
Avoid wearing any form of jewelry in headshots because casting directors find it very distracting.
You should also avoid hats, scarves, chains, or other accessories.
If you wear glasses, you can keep them on during the shoot (or do some with and without) – but just be sure to tilt the lenses down a bit to reduce glare (by lifting the sides up slightly off your ears).
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Avoid wearing any form of jewelry in headshots because casting directors find it very distracting.
You should also avoid hats, scarves, chains, or other accessories.
If you wear glasses, you can keep them on during the shoot (or do some with and without) – but just be sure to tilt the lenses down a bit to reduce glare (by lifting the sides up slightly off your ears).
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
No glare in the glasses. Note that his shirt has a pattern, but since the photo was taken horizontally, it's not too distracting. A solid color still would have been better!
Don't Wear Sleeveless Tops
For women, unless you love your arms, in general it's best to only show skin around your neck and face. Wearing a sleeveless top not only causes your shoulders and arms to draw attention away from your face, but sometimes your bra straps can creep into the shot which is highly distracting and will need to be photoshopped out.
If you do plan to take shots where you'll be showing your arms, be sure to hold them slightly off your body. If they're pressed up against you, it can make them look bigger than they are.
If you do plan to take shots where you'll be showing your arms, be sure to hold them slightly off your body. If they're pressed up against you, it can make them look bigger than they are.
Don't Wear Clothes That Fit Poorly
Wearing clothes that are too small or big can look terrible in pictures.
Baggy clothing can make you look heavier than you are in real life (or make you look like you're wearing hand-me-down clothes), and outfits that are too tight will bulge in places, drawing the eye away from your face.
Your clothes don't need to fit perfectly, but they should fit fairly well.
Article: How to know if your clothes fit (men)
Article: How to know if your clothes fit (women)
Baggy clothing can make you look heavier than you are in real life (or make you look like you're wearing hand-me-down clothes), and outfits that are too tight will bulge in places, drawing the eye away from your face.
Your clothes don't need to fit perfectly, but they should fit fairly well.
Article: How to know if your clothes fit (men)
Article: How to know if your clothes fit (women)
Rich, deep colors work best on camera. But be sure they support your Type(s)!
Don't Wear Low-Cut Necklines or Turtleneck Shirts
Turtlenecks can cut you off and make you appear uptight (like the effect you get when you fold your arms).
Low-cut shirts, on the other hand, can be distracting unless they're cropped in closely. Showing cleavage is a big no-no for actor headshots.
Even though some photographers will say otherwise, the truth is that there are no hard and fast rules for necklines in headshots – your photographer should be able to shoot you no matter what kind of neckline you wear. Just keep in mind that scoop necks and v-necks typically work best for women, and for men the only neckline that doesn't work well is a tight t-shirt or turtleneck that goes up high on the neck.
If you're not sure about something, feel free to bring it as an option and ask your photographer to take a test shot.
Low-cut shirts, on the other hand, can be distracting unless they're cropped in closely. Showing cleavage is a big no-no for actor headshots.
Even though some photographers will say otherwise, the truth is that there are no hard and fast rules for necklines in headshots – your photographer should be able to shoot you no matter what kind of neckline you wear. Just keep in mind that scoop necks and v-necks typically work best for women, and for men the only neckline that doesn't work well is a tight t-shirt or turtleneck that goes up high on the neck.
If you're not sure about something, feel free to bring it as an option and ask your photographer to take a test shot.
Don't Wear Shiny Clothing
In general, shiny clothing can look distracting and should be avoided. That said, certain kinds can work (such as black leather jackets), but you should absolutely ask for a test shot before committing to something shiny for the shoot.
Definitely avoid wearing silver or white shiny clothing because pieces like that can look way too bright in the photo, which will draw attention away from your face.
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Definitely avoid wearing silver or white shiny clothing because pieces like that can look way too bright in the photo, which will draw attention away from your face.
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Part 3 of 4: The Best Colors to Wear for Actor Headshots
Now that you've decided on clothing style and you know what to avoid, it's time to pick out your colors!
Rich, Deep Colors Look Best on Camera
In general, I recommend staying away from white and other pale colors as the main color (pink, pale yellow, light green, sky blue, etc.). They can overexpose, distract from your face, and sometimes even make your skin tone look paler than it is. This especially applies to outdoor shoots.
Sometimes lighting can be too bright on certain colors, making them look completely white in places.
A bright yellow might overexpose and appear white, whereas a dark, forest green would look great because the amount of light reflecting from it is less.
If you really want to wear a pale color, wear a jacket or other darker layer over the pale color. You can leave the jacket open so we see some of the pale color, but not too much.
Sometimes lighting can be too bright on certain colors, making them look completely white in places.
A bright yellow might overexpose and appear white, whereas a dark, forest green would look great because the amount of light reflecting from it is less.
If you really want to wear a pale color, wear a jacket or other darker layer over the pale color. You can leave the jacket open so we see some of the pale color, but not too much.
His shirt is too bright and takes away from his face.
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Darker colors look richer and nicer on camera.
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Wear Colors You Love
Anyone who tells you that a certain color always reads well on camera is forgetting that colors are highly subjective.
Your complexion, hair color, backdrop, and even the feeling you want to give off in your headshot should all be taken into consideration, and for that reason, I recommend starting by choosing colors you really love wearing.
I also recommend that you actively avoid wearing colors you don't like because you'll look (and feel) less confident in your shots. Almost any color can technically work as long as the photographer knows how to light it properly.
Your complexion, hair color, backdrop, and even the feeling you want to give off in your headshot should all be taken into consideration, and for that reason, I recommend starting by choosing colors you really love wearing.
I also recommend that you actively avoid wearing colors you don't like because you'll look (and feel) less confident in your shots. Almost any color can technically work as long as the photographer knows how to light it properly.
Bring Different Variations of Each Color
Different variations of your favorite colors will give you options. Your photographer or stylist can help suggest which versions of a color might look best.
For instance, if you love blue, bring a light blue, dark blue, and really dark, navy blue. Then, based on where you're shooting and the background and lighting in the image, certain versions of that color might work better than others.
Note that if you only have one variation of a color, don't worry – you don't have to go and buy a whole bunch of new clothes. Showing up with just one option won't be the end of the world!
For instance, if you love blue, bring a light blue, dark blue, and really dark, navy blue. Then, based on where you're shooting and the background and lighting in the image, certain versions of that color might work better than others.
Note that if you only have one variation of a color, don't worry – you don't have to go and buy a whole bunch of new clothes. Showing up with just one option won't be the end of the world!
Wear Complimentary Colors When Layering
When wearing layers (like a jacket over your shirt), be sure the colors compliment one another.
Intense color combinations can be distracting, so keep your combinations simple.
Make sure the combinations you wear are made of solid-colored pieces layered over one-another. Layers can add more interest and make you look more dynamic and visually appealing.
If you're wondering whether to do your headshot with a jacket on or off, I almost always recommend keeping it on... but if your photographer is open to it, ask to do a few of each!
You can download my free "Instant Color Matching" table to make combining different colors for layering easy.
Intense color combinations can be distracting, so keep your combinations simple.
Make sure the combinations you wear are made of solid-colored pieces layered over one-another. Layers can add more interest and make you look more dynamic and visually appealing.
If you're wondering whether to do your headshot with a jacket on or off, I almost always recommend keeping it on... but if your photographer is open to it, ask to do a few of each!
You can download my free "Instant Color Matching" table to make combining different colors for layering easy.
Send the Right Message By Wearing the Right Color
Some colors can subconsciously send the wrong message to people if they're worn the wrong way.
For example, a large amount of green can signify harmony and stability, but a small amount of green can actually make you come across as jealous or inexperienced.
Why do we interpret green like that?
Well, evolutionarily, we learned that lots of green meant grass & woods, or a safe place. But small amounts of green tell us a fruit is not ripe yet, meaning we should avoid it.
Since subliminal color meanings are beyond the scope of this article, I've created a guide that explains not only what each color says to the viewer, but also how the meanings change based on where the color appears in the image - as an inner layer, outer layer, or even as a backdrop.
This info will make it easy for you to figure out what to wear and what backdrops to request so your headshot sends the right message!
For example, a large amount of green can signify harmony and stability, but a small amount of green can actually make you come across as jealous or inexperienced.
Why do we interpret green like that?
Well, evolutionarily, we learned that lots of green meant grass & woods, or a safe place. But small amounts of green tell us a fruit is not ripe yet, meaning we should avoid it.
Since subliminal color meanings are beyond the scope of this article, I've created a guide that explains not only what each color says to the viewer, but also how the meanings change based on where the color appears in the image - as an inner layer, outer layer, or even as a backdrop.
This info will make it easy for you to figure out what to wear and what backdrops to request so your headshot sends the right message!
Are Your Colors Sending the Right Message?
Download my Free "Hidden Color Meanings" Chart
Scientific research has shown that every color sends a specific message depending on how it's worn. My "Hidden Color Meanings" chart will help you quickly and easily pick outfits that send the right message.
Let me know where to send the guide by clicking the button below: |
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Part 4 of 4: Important Tips to Prepare for Your Shoot
In this last section, I'll outline a few final things to keep in mind as you go about planning your outfits for your headshots.
Don't Be Afraid to Bring a Few Options
Most photographers are fine if you bring more than what you'll need for the shoot. Feel free to bring a few different options so they (or their makeup artist) can help you decide.
Sometimes they just need to see you in-person to know what will work best based on your skin tone, eye color, hair color, etc.
And of course, if the photographer does test shots, they can let you see them so you can see whether you like the way your outfits look in the pictures.
Sometimes they just need to see you in-person to know what will work best based on your skin tone, eye color, hair color, etc.
And of course, if the photographer does test shots, they can let you see them so you can see whether you like the way your outfits look in the pictures.
Keep in Mind How Far Out the Image Will Be Cropped
Unless you need to do full-body or 3/4 length photos, you won't need to worry about your pants and shoes.
That being said, some people like to wear an entire outfit that matches. We often shoot with women who want to wear heels because it improves their posture and how they carry themselves in their photo.
Learn more about cropping for actor headshots here.
That being said, some people like to wear an entire outfit that matches. We often shoot with women who want to wear heels because it improves their posture and how they carry themselves in their photo.
Learn more about cropping for actor headshots here.
A half-body or 3/4 shot won't show your shoes, but does show your pants.
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Beneath this suit, his pants were biker shorts (just kidding).
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Looking Good in a Headshot is About More Than Your Outfit
A great headshot is about more than just your clothes. It's also about your expression! And since expression is so important, you need to feel good about what you're wearing.
If you choose clothing you don't like just because someone tells you to (or you wear clothes that are uncomfortable), it will be harder for you to relax enough to get good expressions. So wear what you love!
If you want to go deeper on expression, check out my free guide called Upgrade your $400 Headshot to a $1,400 Headshot (without spending a dime more).
If you choose clothing you don't like just because someone tells you to (or you wear clothes that are uncomfortable), it will be harder for you to relax enough to get good expressions. So wear what you love!
If you want to go deeper on expression, check out my free guide called Upgrade your $400 Headshot to a $1,400 Headshot (without spending a dime more).
Hair & Makeup Tips
Dive deep on how to do your own makeup in our free guide: Headshot Makeup: How to Do Your Own
Makeup for camera is different than makeup for everyday life. Camera lighting washes out your face, so your makeup needs to be a bit more pronounced than what you'd do normally.
If you plan to hire a makeup artist, be sure to use someone who has experience in headshots. Most headshot photographers work with a makeup artist they recommend who can customize their makeup to your own personal style.
Here are a few hair and makeup tips if you're planning to do it yourself:
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Makeup for camera is different than makeup for everyday life. Camera lighting washes out your face, so your makeup needs to be a bit more pronounced than what you'd do normally.
If you plan to hire a makeup artist, be sure to use someone who has experience in headshots. Most headshot photographers work with a makeup artist they recommend who can customize their makeup to your own personal style.
Here are a few hair and makeup tips if you're planning to do it yourself:
- Keep your hair simple and remember we can't see what's behind your head – Your hair should look similar to how it normally does in every day life. Avoid asking your photographer or makeup artist to do your hair differently because hair is so subjective and you'll probably be uncomfortable with whatever they suggest. Also, keep in mind that in a photo, we can't see anything behind your head, so if you pull your hair back into a ponytail, it will look like you have really short hair. To show a ponytail or pulled-back hairstyle, slide it over a bit so we can see it sticking out on the side your head.
- Don't do your makeup significantly different – Your headshots should look just like you do in real-life (unless you want to re-do your makeup exactly as it was in your headshot every time you go in for an audition), so be sure the makeup you do is similar to your normal style (and not overly glamorous). If your makeup looks too different, you'll be uncomfortable with your shots and probably won't want to use them. Plus, casting directors HATE when you walk in the audition room looking different than you did in your headshot.
- Contour your face a bit more – Because of the two-dimensionality of photos, you should add a bit more contouring to your face so you look more three-dimensional on camera. Also, with the way lighting works, your features can appear washed-out, so you might need some additional lip color and eyeliner.
- Add extra powder to cover up shine – Studio lights are very bright and can make you look shiny. Even though shine can look nice in real life, it can be distracting and make you look sweaty in your headshot, so it's best to bring some powder or tissues to lightly wipe down your face if appear shiny.
- Bring extra makeup and make adjustments after the photographer takes a test shot – The photographer should give you an extra 5-7 minutes at the start of your session to adjust your makeup after you see your test shot. Be sure to ask if they're open to this ahead of time.
Want to keep things simple? Stay focused on what matters most with my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
Prepare Your Clothing in Advance
Make sure all your clothes are ready to go at least 2-3 days before your shoot.
We've had clients needing to reschedule because there was a delay at the dry cleaner, and we've had others show up with wrinkled clothing (luckily we have steamers in our studios, but some photographers don't).
Be sure your clothes are neatly pressed, clean, and lint-free. And if your photographer doesn't carry them, you can bring a lint roller and steamer to your shoot.
Finally, if you're going to wear a tie and are unsure of how to tie it properly, watch a YouTube video and tie it ahead of time. During the shoot you can just slip it over your head and tighten it. Some photographers don't know how to tie ties, so you should prepare just in case.
For a complete list of all 9 things to bring to your shoot, download my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
We've had clients needing to reschedule because there was a delay at the dry cleaner, and we've had others show up with wrinkled clothing (luckily we have steamers in our studios, but some photographers don't).
Be sure your clothes are neatly pressed, clean, and lint-free. And if your photographer doesn't carry them, you can bring a lint roller and steamer to your shoot.
Finally, if you're going to wear a tie and are unsure of how to tie it properly, watch a YouTube video and tie it ahead of time. During the shoot you can just slip it over your head and tighten it. Some photographers don't know how to tie ties, so you should prepare just in case.
For a complete list of all 9 things to bring to your shoot, download my free Actor Headshot Checklist.
WANT A TALENT AGENT TO GROW YOUR CAREER?
Having a great set of headshots is important, but it's just one small part of growing your acting career.
If you want to act full-time, your first major goal should be to get a legitimate, hardworking talent agent.
I highly recommend checking out this short podcast episode, where I share:
If you want to act full-time, your first major goal should be to get a legitimate, hardworking talent agent.
I highly recommend checking out this short podcast episode, where I share:
- The exact steps to getting a great, hardworking, and legitimate talent agent.
- How to shortcut the process significantly, especially for new actors.
- Tips to avoid scammers in the industry (there are a lot of them!)
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Martin Bentsen (author of this guide) is an actor marketing coach who uses strategic thinking to help actors book more work. He’s helped over 14,000 actors with their careers and actor headshots since 2009 and his photography studio City Headshots is ranked #1 on Yelp. He’s spoken at NYU, The New England Theater Conference, The Actor’s Green Room, and other venues. Want to book more acting work by thinking strategically? Start with his free Actor’s Toolkit to create new opportunities right away, or visit his website at www.martinbentsen.com. |
Further Reading:
If you enjoyed this article, you might be interested in taking a look at some of these:
Lori
9/5/2019 06:43:40 am
Thank you. The article doesn't say anything about wearing black though... I understand "rich, deep colors pop more," but what about black?
I want to wear a black shirt in a headshot - I've heard it can be more versatile.
9/5/2019 09:41:24 am
Hi Lori, thanks for the comment! In general, dark gray with a slight texture looks better on-camera than flat black, but it depends on the shot background and your hair color.
If you have super dark har, it can blend in with a black shirt. And if you're shooting against a gray or other dark backdrop, the black shirt can blend in. However, if you have lighter hair, black can stand out against it. Black shirts also look nice on a more colorful, outdoor backdrop, or even a flat white backdrop. I hope that helps!
Robert Q. Kelly
9/12/2019 11:39:04 am
I have always found that people that are so enamored with getting their picture taken are usually conceited in every way. When someone wants to include me in a photo, I don’t make any pretense of my looks. I know I’m unattractive and mostly a slob but at least I’m honest about it. What you see is what you get. Anything else is vain posturing.
Howie F Arts
9/12/2019 12:09:39 pm
What are your recommendations for and aging man with a small amount of hair left on his head. Come-over? Asking for a friend
Martin Bentsen
9/12/2019 12:42:16 pm
Hey Howie, I'm not quite sure what you're asking here, but if you're wondering what to wear if you're aging with a small amount of hair left, I would suggest that the above tips in the article still apply.
When your photographer shoots, however, ask that he/she refrain from using a hair light. A hair light can light up the top of your head and reflect, which draws attention to the fact that your hair is thinning.
And if you're shooting outside, try to stand underneath some sort of overhang so that the light doesn't come down directly from the sky onto your head.
I hope this helps!
9/12/2019 12:39:41 pm
Hi Robert, thanks for your comment! I wouldn't say that people are conceited for wanting to have their photo taken or for wanting to look good in it.
These days almost everyone needs a professional photo online, and just as I'm sure you would want to look nice when attending an event such as a wedding, people want to look nice for their headshot since it will be posted online and seen by thousands of people.
Looking well-put together shows people you take your career seriously and want to be cast in a positive light.
There are certainly some conceited people in the world, but definitely not most.
Sudershan Kaur
10/9/2019 09:22:23 pm
Hi,
I am 65+ professional in banking and wants to know what to wear
on camera for professional photo shoot?
Top with jacket(Blazer) color combinations?
Thanks
Martin Bentsen
10/10/2019 05:59:00 am
Keep it simple. I would recommend either blue or gray suit jacket (avoid black), with a white shirt and either blue or red tie with a simple pattern.
Stephen Capone
6/30/2020 10:34:30 am
Thanks for publishing this article. Any advice for ERAS photo colors to use/avoid? Not sure what colors go best with a dark charcoal suit. Thanks!
Martin
6/30/2020 10:38:42 am
For ERAS, the same general rules apply. Keep it very formal though, and professional. Suit and Tie is best. Don't wear a black suit.
Navy blue suits tend to perform best according to science when it comes to how they are perceived and professionalism, etc.
Make sure your ERAS photo is taken on a white or light gray background, as those images stand out more in the online portal and are statistically more likely to be clicked on.
Check this page out for more information:
https://www.cityheadshots.com/medical-residency-application-photo.html
Daniela
10/1/2020 05:10:55 pm
What type of suit should a woman wear for ERAS photo?
What combination of blazer - shirt colors?
I have long dark hair
Martin
10/1/2020 05:12:02 pm
Dark blue works well, or dark gray. Sometimes black can be too dark and I don't recommend it.
White shirt with dark blue blazer would be great!
Diandra
5/21/2021 08:04:46 am
Hey! I wanted to look into the "Hidden Colour Meanings" guide in clothing and backdrops, so that I'd be more prepared to book a photoshoot later on. Yet somehow the guide expired or isn't there anymore. Is there a separate article about it or something? Thanks in advance.
Martin
6/8/2021 07:03:36 am
This has been fixed, thanks and sorry about that!
Comments are closed.