Information
Before the Shoot
Pre-Shoot Consultation. All of my headshot sessions include a pre-shoot consultation (by phone or video call) to discuss the shoot, including the style of shoot, how you intend to use the images, and background options.
What to Wear. I encourage you to have at least three outfit options available to change your look. Once we start shooting we will be able to see what works and what doesn't. A good headshot should represent you at your best, and draw our eyes to you, and not what you are wearing.
- Wear what works well for the message you want to portray, and colours that flatter your skin tone and eyes.
- Wear things that fit well and that you are comfortable in. Not too tight, and not so big and baggy it swamps you.
- For business/corporate headshots, a classic professional looking suit or clean-cut office-wear is ideal - avoiding sleeveless or short sleeves if possible, which can be distracting.
- To keep your headshot timeless, classic styles are great - avoiding 'trend' items that will date quickly.
- Plain natural fabrics such as cotton and wool work well - I would recommend avoiding tiny fabrics, as these can be reflective and distracting.
- Pops of colour are great, but avoid bold or distracting patterns or logos, and keep in mind pastel colours can make you appear washed out, depending on your skin tone.
Hair and Make-up. I ask clients to have their look ready to go at the start of the shoot.
- For make-up, a natural matt/non-shiny look is recommended.
- Take the time to style your hair, and bring hair products you use with you.
- Hair and make-up can be adjusted to change the look during the shoot.
The Shoot
What to expect. It can be daunting standing in front of a camera and studio lights. For indoor studio shoots, I shoot tethered to a screen, so you can see straight way how the images are looking - I find this helps you relax into the shoot, and gain confidence. I also provide guidance and coaching on posture and expression throughout the shoot.
Shoot time. Shoots can take anything up to 3 hours. My shoots are unrushed - we take the time necessary to get the images we need. I want you to be relaxed, not watching the clock.
Shoot Location. Shoots can take place in my small home based studio in Little Waltham, close to Chelmsford, or I bring my mobile studio to you.
- For a headshot shoot, we require a minimum of 1.5-3m wide, and 3-4m depth.
- I am happy to travel for shoots, but predominately cover the East of England, including Essex, Suffolk, and Hertfordshire. Depending on distance, cost of travel expense may be included in your quote.
Glasses. I often get asked - should I take my glasses off? If you usually wear glasses, I would recommend including images that show you wearing them as that is how people are used to seeing you. I'm happy to shoot images of you both with and without - with different glasses options if you have them.
After the Shoot
Image Selection. If time permits, we have the option to review the images straight after the shoot, for you to select your favourites for purchase. Or if not, Clients are provided with a link to a Private Gallery containing lightly edited Proof images for review and image selection.
Retouching. For images selected for purchase, I will perform light retouching to enhance the image. I want to you to look like you at your best - so will remove non-permanent blemishes and marks.
Timing. I aim to provide Proof galleries within 7 days of a shoot, and your edited images within 14 days of image selection. The last thing I want to do is rush your edits. If time permits I take at least a day before looking at the images after a shoot to ensure I am viewing them with fresh eyes. I also like to take a day after I have completed an edit to do a recheck to ensure I haven't missed anything, and make some final tweaks.
Digital Images. Two sizes of digital image will be provided per purchased headshot image.
- A full size high quality digital images - the best quality for printing.
- A small size low resolution image - for use online.
Anything Else
Pricing. Prices quoted for shoots are inclusive of time to put up and take down studio equipment, and post production image editing and delivery.
Deposit. All bookings are subject to a non-refundable deposit to secure the shoot date.
DBS. For peace of mind I am Enhanced DBS registered.
If you have any additional questions please do not hesitate to get in touch and have a chat about your requirements.