What are the Best Background Colors for Headshots?

A high-key white backdrop is a modern choice that is perfect for promotional materials.

As a headshot photographer, I get this question from my clients all the time. “What is the best background for my corporate headshot? I have no idea what color to pick.” My answer? It depends.

There are several factors that go into choosing the right background color, not only to ensure you’re coordinating with your brand and your industry, but that you’re creating a headshot that you (and HR!) will love. Balancing all of these factors into one headshot can be tricky. If you’re in charge of booking your headshot, and you get to pick your own backdrop rather than your company, consider the six tips below.

1. Think about where you plan to use your new headshot

A dark gray backdrop can add an executive edge to your business portrait.

• LinkedIn: Plain, non-distracting backdrops are great for LinkedIn profile pictures.

• Bold/creative brand: Think about using a colorful backdrop that represents your company colors or style.

• Tech or finance industry: Bright white is crisp and modern for these types of businesses.

• Promotional materials: consider using a bright white backdrop that you can easily meld into promotional flyers or cards.

• Executive portrait for speaking engagements: I like to use darker colors, like a pewter gray, for these types of shots.

2. What does your company usually request?

• Research what existing headshots look like on your company website to see if you should be getting something that matches what’s already there.

• Ask your HR team if they have any style preferences or requests. Consistency is very important to most large corporations, and you don’t want to waste money on a headshot that will need to be reshot.

3. What do you plan to wear?

• Dark backgrounds will make color pop and look more vibrant.

• White backgrounds look better when you plan to wear dark clothing so there’s more contrast between you and the backdrop.

• Gray backgrounds are a middle-ground option that remains classic and versatile.

A colorful backdrop can showcase your brand colors.

4. Use bright colors to your advantage

• Choosing a bright color like blue or yellow will show that your company isn’t just business as usual. If you're looking for something bold and edgy, neutral colors might not be appropriate; instead, try something fun and vibrant.

• Colorful headshots can be used for a more branded approach that will catch the eye on your websites.

• Leverage bright, dynamic colors on your social media to provide interest.

5. Make sure you’re the center of attention—and not your background

• No matter what background you choose, make sure your background doesn’t distract the viewer. The viewer’s eye should be immediately pulled to your face - and not your background.

• Consider shooting on a green screen to pull in the perfect background later.

Shooting on green screen will allow many different options beyond a studio backdrop.

6. Consider your skin tone and hair color

• Some backdrop colors could make your skin look sallow or sickly, so avoid backdrops that are too stark or that you feel you blend into.

• If you have very dark hair, consider how it could disappear into a very dark background. Contrast helps!

Still not sure what color to choose?

I am happy to provide you with my recommendation based on my experience shooting hundreds of portraits over the years for all kinds of companies! When you book your session, feel free to write “open” in the background selection box, and we’ll talk about what would be best for your needs.