General Queries

Do I really need a headshot?

Yes, Yes and Yes!

Whether we like it or not our lives are more public than they have ever been. Our first instinct when investigating a new connetion is often to google them, check their LinkedIn or other social media. In doing that subconsciously we make split second decisions based on what we see.

We know our own habbits, and we must assume that everyone else does the same and that its just a matter of time until someone will be basing a decision as to whether to build a new relationship with you based on a split second decision. So in order to put our best foot forward, a great headshot that demonstrates confidence and approachability is a must have.

Is there really a difference between a general photographer and a 'headshot' photogapher?

Absolutely! There are a lot of details that go into making a great headshot. It has taken years of experimentaion and education to be able to produce the quality of shots in my portfolio. My Experience which allows me to coach you into producing a great confident and approachable headshot using a lot of tricks of the trade. Furthermore, there is a large amount of specialised equipment a general photographer wouldn't have available to them so while there are photographers out there who claim to do everything, I've specialised in a particular niche.

What about Backgrounds, what options do we have?

I have a variety of options ranging including white, grey and black. Generally for multi-purpose headshots I recomend a white background as its suitable for websites, LinkedIn and social media. However if you opt to go for longer session it allows us to do a bit of everything and have a variety of shots and backgrounds which is great as I love shooting on grey or black for a less clinical feel.

Do you offer any kind of gurantee?

I shoot 'tethered' which means you will be able to see photos as we go through the session. As we go we'll talk about what we like about the photos and things we want to change. This is effectively your opportunity to verbally approve the photos. If at the end of the session by some chance you are not happy we can shake hands and there is no charge. I'm confident I can get some of the best shots you've ever had, so I know we won't need to go down this road. If you feel like you've had better I challenge you to show me :)

 

Preparing for the Session

What do I wear?

Do I bring my Glasses? What If I only use them occasionally?

Bring them along! In fact try to bring as many pairs as you own, some glasses reflect worse than others so we can work around them. Things could change in the future and you may wear them more, so will want to have some options which include them.

Any Clothing tips?

Short answer is, if in doubt, bring it along and we can decide or try it on the day, more options is better, bring at least 2-3 outfits with a mixture of colors

Try to keep things simple, no over the to patterns which would distract from your face

Only wear clothes you are comfortable and confident in, don't pull out a shirt you have never worn or wouldnt wear day to day because it could look good.

Keep in mind we are only shooting chest up so necklines should be simple as to not distract from the face.

Layers can be great such as a cardigan or blazer, dont be afraid to bring along some options here as we can always add and subtract them with ease.

What about Jewerly?

Absolutely, but like everything in moderation. A simple pendant or stud earings are fine. Nothing too dangly that could be a distraction. Having said that if you have a piece that you are known for wearing and that may be particularlly important to you, we ecan give it a try and get some with and some without. Its easy to add and remove pieces through the session so nothing to worry about

 

Skin (MEN TOO!), Hair and Makeup

Skin (Men too!)

This is huge and often overlooked but keeping your skin (and lips) hydrated 2-3 days before a headshot makes a huge difference in how the end result comes out.

  • Avoid chapped lips
  • Moisturise, Moisturise, Moisturise. Make it a nightly or morning routine if you dont already.

    NOTE: Men, I highly recomend against 'borrowing' your partners expensive moisturiser, this will get you seriously hurt

  • Avoid large amount of time in the sun, a last minute tan is not a good idea as you will just dry out or worse burn.

Makeup

  • Liquid concealers look better on camera than powders, having said that don’t be overly concerned with covering up every single blemish as this can be dealt with in retouching.

If you opt to have makeup done professionally don’t be afraid to let them know the purpose and your requirements. The makeup doesn’t need to last for a 8 hour wedding day as a lot of make up artists are used to so this can determine the kinds of products they use

Hair

  • Lots of options here for women, wear it how you feel confident whether thats up or down. Curled or Straightened.

  • Depending on your style we may be able to change it throughout the session together if we like

Eyes

  • Key point here is to try and ensure that you go for a natural look, we can always add more during the session, but taking away its extremely challenging without starting again. Natural is timeless

  • Avoid heavy makeup or hard lines (eyeliner is a big culprit). Don’t pencil in eyebrows, if you want to make them fuller I’ve had clients use mascara with success.

  • Keep eyeshadow (if any) to very natural colors

If you opt to have makeup done professionally don’t be afraid to let them know the purpose and your requirements. The makeup doesn’t need to last for a 8 hour wedding day as a lot of make up artists are used to so this can determine the kinds of products they use

Lips

Key point here is to try and ensure that you go for a natural look, we can always add more during the session, but taking away its extremely challenging without starting again. Natural is timeless

  • Avoid lipliner as this creates a harsh line that will stand out

  • Keep lips colors close to natural shades, and opt for glossy instead of any matte finishes

 

The Session and Next Steps

The Session

What can I expect?

Well, perhaps to your surprise, a bundle of fun!

Start with a quick chat, talk through a general plan for the shoot, and have a look through the outfits you've brought. We'll talk about some of the basics of helping you create a great expression and look at the results of the changes live on the monitor. A mixture of coaching and general fun will guide us down the road to producing a fantastic headshot

Throughout the session we'll review the photos and pick our favorites to produce a shortlist of potential shots

What is 'Tethered' Shooting and why do you do it?

Tethered shooting is when I'm able to view every photo as its taken on a large screen so we can look at the detail and I'm able to show you the shots we are taking. It then allows us to look at the detail and really work towards that killer shot! It would be very hard to do this on the tiny screen on back of a camera and is important feedback through the session

Do you only work out of your studio or can you come to me?

I'm 100% mobile, while most people would prefer to come to me for economic reasons don't hesitate to enquire if you would like to arrange for myself and all my equipment to come to you. This is generally best when there is a group of people, often businesses as the economics is a bit more friendly given the amount of equipment that needs to be transported, constructed and deconstructed.

 

After the Session

What happens next?

At the end of the session we'll work through the shots we've crafted together. You are in the drivers seat to select the images you want to purchase. But if you need some help along the way our trained eye is there to help.

How long does it take to get my photos?

Depending on your package and number of phtoos it can be as quick as 24 hours from making your selections. I do offer a same day option if required

How do I get my photos?

I'll provide you a link to a dropbox file where you can download your files, very simple and gives you the digital files for use as you see fit. You get both a full resolution file and a file optimised for web use to ensure you get the best quality on LinkedIn and Facebook etc.

Is it possible to get prints?

Absolutely, a variety of sizes are available. I'm finding more and more families printing their photos for display (think Brady Bunch!)

 

Something not answered above? Contact me and we can talk about it and I can look to add it to the FAQ to help future customers