Better business headshots. Made easy
FAQ
Professional headshots are a major part of the contemporary professional landscape. But there can still be a bit of anxiety or confusion about them and what goes into headshot photography in general. Especially if you don’t have visit headshot photographer often.
It is important to find a headshot photographer that you feel comfortable with. Also, make sure your headshot photographer has the experience to not only guide you through a photo session, but help you prepare for it as well.
Here you’ll find responses to common concerns or questions about professional headshots I hear from my clients. If you have a specific question that is not addressed here, please feel free to reach out, and I would be more than happy to help.
01 considering headshot photography
WHO IS HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY FOR?
For anybody who’s serious about their brand. That applies to entrepreneurs, business people, dating profiles, actors, other performers and creatives.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I UPDATE MY HEADSHOT?
A good rule of thumb is to update your professional headshot every 2-3 years. But you may need to reconsider headshot timing after appearance change, such as weight change, new hairstyle, glasses, etc. Also, change in your audience (job promotion, new position, etc.) might indicate a good time to revisit a headshot photography studio.
HOW DO I KNOW WHAT HEADSHOT TYPE IS BEST FOR MY INDUSTRY OR PROFESSION?
You can always look at what your peers are doing as inspiration. But even then you should ask yourself who your ideal audience is and what you want to communicate to them. That will guide the mood, expression, and aesthetic. If you’re still not sure, your headshot photographer can always help you figure that out.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN INDOOR AND OUTDOOR HEADSHOT SESSION?
Indoor eliminates a lot of unpredictable events that could ruin a photoshoot outdoors, such as nature elements, permits, etc. For bigger groups, headshots in controlled photography studio environments allow way better consistency. I’m a big advocate for indoor headshots.
WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A GOOD AND A BAD HEADSHOT?
A good headshot engages the viewer, showing the subject’s confidence, presence, and interest in the viewer. It helps the subject clearly communicate their message without perceived effort.
Bad headshot on other hand will reflect discomfort, confusion, and unsureness. Subject might appear disconnected, uncomfortable or like trying really hard to make a pose or expression work.
IS HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHY FOR EXECUTIVES, MODELS AND ACTORS ONLY?
Absolutely not. The standard for quality on the internet has risen drastically. That means everyone from business execs to mom-and-pop shop owners can benefit from high quality representations of their brand.
I HAVE A SPECIAL REQUEST FOR MY HEADSHOT. CAN YOU ACCOMMODATE ME?
Maybe. Feel free to ask and I will do what I can. Not everything is within my wheelhouse, and I may recommend someone else. But I am always open to hearing what ideas you have.
HOW MUCH ARE HEADSHOTS?
You can find my current headshot pricing here.
02 scheduling your headshot session
HOW CAN I SIGN UP AN ENTIRE TEAM OR OTHER GROUP?
Usually I take care of it. Once we discussed your needs and best approach, along with the date, amount of people and location, I will put together a customized scheduler for your team. After you share it with your team, people will pick time slots that work for them best.
I NEED A LAST-MINUTE BOOKING. HOW SOON CAN YOU GET ME IN?
If you don’t see any openings in a signup calendar, the best way to see my most up to date availability would be to call me directly at 608-239-4199.
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL OR RESCHEDULE?
Once you sign up, you will receive a confirmation email that contains links to canceling and rescheduling. Same with the upcoming photo session reminder email you will receive 24-hours before your photo session.
CAN YOU DO THE HEADSHOTS AT MY PLACE OF BUSINESS?
Yes. I can bring the lighting and backdrops and it looks just like a headshot photography studio set. This is also a great option if you need to cycle through a large team without disrupting your work flow. An additional fee might apply to on location photo shoots.
If you’re not satisfied with the level of service or don’t like proofed images, your headshot session is FREE of charge.
03 preparing for your session
WHAT ARE KEY TAKEAWAYS OF THIS ARTICLE?
Make sure you are well rested and hydrated, you have your outfits chosen, cleaned, and wrinkle free. As well as have all your personal grooming done if needed. Also make sure you know who your audience is. You can find more in depth guide on preparing for a headshot session here.
DO YOU OFFER A CLOTHING CONSULTATION BEFORE THE HEADSHOT SESSION?
I talk about preparing for your headshot session here.
Ultimately, it’s about who your target audience is and what is the message you’re trying to send. Please do your research, make sure clothing fits you well, and if not sure, always bring other options.
DO I NEED TO GET A HAIRCUT BEFORE?
I do recommend getting your hair professionally styled and cut as close to your scheduled shoot as you can.
CAN I BRING PROPS OR ACCESSORIES?
Normal accessories for a true headshot usually include include one/ all of the following necklace, earrings and glasses. If you normally present yourself with particular accessories, they are perfectly fine to include. Generally though, your headshot session is not the best time to experiment with one time presentation styles.
04 at the photography studio
SHOULD I BE SMILING?
Smiles are great but so is not smiling. I want you to be comfortable and happy with your photos. I may encourage you to try it out, but it’s your call.
You should also consider what message you want to send to your audience. For some, a serious and stoic impression may be best as well.
HOW DO I POSE?
Posing during photo session can be hard, especially if you’re not practiced at it. That’s why it’s my job to give you direction and help you find what will work for you.
DO YOU HAVE A SPACE FOR CHANGING?
Yes, there is an area in the photography studio sectioned off for your privacy.
HOW LONG WILL THE PHOTO SESSION LAST?
My headshot packages start at 45 minutes, which is generally sufficient to meet, get comfortable and warm up to the camera.
Sessions that include multiple looks, (i.e. additional backgrounds, outfits, expressions), or creative portrait session, may last a couple hours or more.
These are of course guidelines. The needs and flow of every session are unique
CAN I BRING A FRIEND/ FAMILY MEMBER TO THE PHOTOGRAPHY STUDIO?
For sure. However I usually recommend against it, as they may become a distraction or an interference. But if you feel you need some support and encouragement from a trusted individual, there is no rule against it.
If you’re not satisfied with the level of service or don’t like proofed images, your headshot session is FREE of charge.
05 headshot delivery/ post processing
WHAT IF I AM UNSATISFIED WITH THE DELIVERED PHOTOS?
If you’re not satisfied with the level of service or don’t like proofed images, let me know and your headshot session is free of charge.
DO YOU RETOUCH THE PHOTOS?
All final selects get a basic retouching. Higher tier packages all include my in depth signature retouching. See more about it in the article here.
HOW LARGE ARE THE FILES?
Your headshot will be a high quality images with a file size that is suitable for most internet and printing needs.
IS THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS TO USING MY HEADSHOT IMAGES?
All my current headshot usage is licensed for social media, internal print materials, and websites. Please mention if you want to use your headshot for print advertisement campaigns, billboards as commercial usage fee might be applied to it.
CAN I RECEIVE DIGITAL COPIES OF MY HEADSHOTS?
Amount of edited high resolution images you will receive depends on the headshot or portrait package you pick.
CAN YOU MAKE ME LOOK YOUNGER/ THINNER?
I try to make my clients look like themselves on their best day, as they are. I occasionally make some adjustments to help the flow of a photo but without changing what a person looks like. If you have made the decision that you want to go this route, we can discuss your options and any caveats that come with making your changes.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO GET MY FINAL HEADSHOTS?
Standard delivery may take up to a week. Higher tier packages do include priority delivery times and you can get your headshots within 2-4 days. If you otherwise need a faster turnaround, we can discuss your options.
HOW ARE FINAL IMAGES DELIVERED?
I will send your headshots to you via WeTransfer for you to download with a week expiration.