Planning For Your Headshot Session
Wardrobe
Choose your clothing wisely. Select colors that complement your eye color and skin tone. Muted colors work well, as do bright colors but stay away from busy prints or distracting patterns. Colored shirts work well for men and women. Depending on the message you want your headshot to convey you could opt for a t-shirt or v-neck. I suggest avoiding sleeveless shirts if you have concerns about your shoulders or upper arms, otherwise tanks and straps can work very well. Layers work really well so experiment with shirts and sweaters, or tanks and shirts. We are shooting from waist up so feel free to wear comfortable pants or skirt as they won’t be in the shot. Shoes should be comfortable and complimentary to good posture. I will be shifting your weight from one foot to the other and back so this is not the time to wear the brand new pumps. Accessories are fine but beware that the necklace and earrings don’t create a distraction.
If your headshot will be used in a corporate setting it is a good idea to meet with your team leader for suggestions as to wardrobe. Corporate colors or other branding elements may be important to your company. Otherwise, consider your personal brand and the message you want to convey to your audience.
Both the Power 30 and Corporate Headshot allow only one outfit. You should arrive ready to go in whatever clothing you have decided portrays you at your best. We have a nice dressing room if you do need to change into your shoot outfit. If you have booked a Corporate Headshot there may be time for one wardrobe change so feel free to bring a second look just in case.
For the Pro Headshot session I allow a minimum of four looks. Please bring as many as 8 to 10 outfits. While we discuss the session progress I will assist you in selecting what experience tells me will work best for you. People always ask me what colors are best and I really don’t have an answer for that. It’s better for me to get a visual of something, so I suggest bringing a wide variety of colors. Don’t be seasonal; everything from t-shirts, tank tops to sweaters and light jackets can work. I love textures and layers, but would generally stay away from crazy patterns.
If it’s not in the studio we can’t shoot it, so if you find yourself questioning whether or not something will work just bring it along. I also suggest having some fun with this, if you feel your wardrobe is missing something then go shopping and we’ll keep the tags on it and you can return the items you don’t want to keep after the shoot. I have a steamer, so don’t worry about wrinkles, we’ll be able to easily sort them out! If you don’t absolutely love the way you look in a certain outfit please don’t bring it. If you are uncomfortable in your clothing it will show in camera.
Hair & Make Up
Good hair and makeup is crucial to a quality headshot. Men should get a haircut several days before the shoot. If a guy can put together a good scruff leave it on. We’ll shoot a bit then you can shave and come away with two distinct looks. Women, we’re shooting close up here so pay close attention to hairstyle and makeup application. For the Power 30 and Corporate Headshot arrive at the studio made up and ready to go. You can take a little time to touch up when you get to the studio. Hair should be styled as you typically wear it day to day. Think natural, soft and muted when putting on your look.
The Pro Headshot session demands professional hair and makeup. I have retained an exceptional team of makeup artists and hair stylists. The cost is reasonable and the service highly recommended. Prices vary depending on your requirements and can be found on the pricing page. I shoot close in so a little hair and makeup magic can go a long way.
Guests
Due to the nature of the photo shoot guests are not allowed in the studio while I am shooting. I need your full and undivided attention. Your guests are welcome to assist you in preparing for your headshot. We have a very comfortable lobby for any guests to wait in while you are in session. If the client is under the age of 18 a parent/guardian is required to be in the studio at all times.
My Equipment
I take my work very seriously and use the best equipment available. From camera to lighting all my gear is top notch and state of the art. Rest assured that no matter what outcome a client wants I and my equipment can deliver it. Whatever I choose to use during your session rest assured that it’s the right gear to get the job done.
Post Session Details
What’s Next?
After your headshot session concludes we will email you a link to an online proofing gallery. You will be provided a pass code which will allow you to browse your gallery.
During your session we will have narrowed down the shots to about 50 images that have the potential to become your selected headshot. As you review the images you will be able to rate them with the goal of getting down to five or so you could be comfortable choosing your final from. You may find that I have left comments on those that I believe are my best work however the final selection is up to you.
All headshot packages include edited and lightly retouched images. They will be cropped to 8×10 in size, color corrected with minor retouching. Your image will be delivered in digital format as a high resolution jpeg. We offer in-house printing services if you want hard copies for distribution. Additional images can be purchased for retouching and delivery at a nominal fee.