Preparing for Your Photo or Video Shoot
Thank you for participating in a UMass Dartmouth photo or video shoot! The information below will help you feel comfortable, confident, and camera-ready. Our goal is to capture authentic moments that reflect the UMass Dartmouth community.
General tips (for everyone)
- Be yourself: the best photos and videos happen when you're relaxed. Don't worry about posing—we'll guide you every step of the way.
- Arrive on time: plan to arrive 5–10 minutes early so we can stay on schedule.
- Hair & makeup: wear your hair the way you normally would. Natural makeup photographs well, but there's no expectation to wear makeup if you don't normally.
- Glasses: if you normally wear glasses, please wear them. We may ask you to tilt them slightly if glare becomes an issue.
- Bring a few options: if possible, bring 2–3 outfit choices so we can choose what works best for the location and lighting.
- Phones: please silence your phone during the shoot.
- Consider your space: if shooting will take place in your classroom, lab, office, or workspace, please ensure the area is clean, organized, and free of unnecessary clutter. Remove personal items, food containers, or anything that may be distracting on camera when possible.
What should I wear?
Headshots & video interview
Recommended wardrobe
- Solid colors or subtle patterns
- Business casual or campus professional attire
- Layers such as a blazer, cardigan, or quarter-zip photograph well
- UMass Dartmouth apparel is welcome! Bring a UMD top and something more simple if you’d like the option
- Layered outfits
- For video: bring 2–3 outfit options if possible, and we'll help you choose what works best on camera.
Please avoid
- Thin stripes or busy patterns
- Large graphics or lots of text
- Visible brand logos
- Wrinkled clothing
- Baseball caps (unless they're part of your role)
- For video: neon colors or noisy jewelry that may interfere with audio
Brand photoshoot
Recommended wardrobe
- Neutral colors
- Earth tones
- Layer
- UMass Dartmouth apparel
- Clothing you'd normally wear on campus
- Clean, well-fitting clothing
Please avoid
- Other colleges or universities' branding
- Large logos or graphics
- Neon colors
- Busy patterns
- Clothing with distracting text
- Cropped or uncomfortable clothing; choose pieces that provide comfortable coverage while standing, sitting, and moving
What kind of shoot are you preparing for?
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Professional photograph used to provide a clear, approachable representation of yourself that can then be used in a variety of media.
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Help us capture the UMass Dartmouth experience through authentic moments that show what it’s like to learn, work, connect, and spend time on campus.
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Whether you’re sharing your expertise or telling your story, you'll be guided through the filming process so you can feel comfortable and natural on camera.
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Showcase your research, your team, and the work happening in your lab.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. We encourage bringing 2–3 options whenever possible.
Absolutely. Our photographers and videographers will guide you throughout the shoot.
Most people are! We'll keep the experience relaxed and conversational to help you feel comfortable.
Yes! In many cases, we encourage it, especially for student-focused content.