GREAT VS. "NOT-SO-GREAT" HEADSHOTS
Do you know what makes the subtle difference?
|
Take a look at headshots people post online.
If you look carefully, you'll often notice fake smiles or uncomfortable expressions. Many people feel awkward when having pictures taken, and unfortunately most photographers don't know how to give specific direction to fix it so they look natural, relaxed, and confident. And the results speak for themselves (unfortunately). A fake smile or awkward expression can mean the difference between a photo that opens up new opportunities... and one that doesn't. Case Study: How Chris Pecoraro's Strong Headshot Got Him More Interview Opportunities. That's why we've spent over a decade refining our process, guiding our clients to look professional, experienced, and confident in their photos (even if they're not used to being photographed). A headshot that proves you know what you're doing and shows you take your career seriously is critical. And as our tagline states, "It's all about expression." Learn all about how we do it here. |
TRUSTED BY 35,000+ PROFESSIONALS
Since 2009, we've helped tens of thousands of CEOs, senior executives, entrepreneurs, authors, and more. Our biggest repeat clients include Amazon, LinkedIn Corp, Facebook, American Express, JP Morgan, Citizen's Bank, and many others.
We've also worked with actors on Broadway and in major films & television shows (including Frozen, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Blue Bloods, Law & Order, New Amsterdam, and more).
Our work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and even The Rachael Ray Show, and we've shot for numerous well-known authors including Shana Knizhnik of The Notorious R.B.G.
We've also worked with actors on Broadway and in major films & television shows (including Frozen, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Blue Bloods, Law & Order, New Amsterdam, and more).
Our work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and even The Rachael Ray Show, and we've shot for numerous well-known authors including Shana Knizhnik of The Notorious R.B.G.
OUR STUDIO
We're based right in the heart of midtown Manhattan, near Times Square and Grand Central:
|
2 West 46 St., Suite 1500
New York, NY 10036 |
SUCCESS STORIES
|
Laura Jackson "Initially I was nervous about being photographed. I'm awkward as hell in front of the camera, but I needed the headshots for business purposes. They killed these pictures! They told me exactly how to pose and position my feet/shoulders to get the best angles for the shots. I'm so pleased with the outcome!" |
Nicole Wagner "They were incredibly responsive and emailed me within an hour to ask if I had questions or needed any help prior to the session. The photographer was super nice and reassuring, and knew exactly how to direct me. We stopped after each batch of pictures to make sure I liked them, and when I finally settled on a photo and submitted it for retouching, I received it back within one day." |
Sheila Foster "I have used City headshots now for the past 6 years. I have since had 4 shoots with them over the years, the most recent this month. The photographers are all excellent. If you need a headshot, this is the place to come. I tried out another photographer for a headshot but was disappointed. I am happy to report that City Headshots doesn't disappoint!" |
HUNDREDS OF 5-STAR GOOGLE REVIEWS...
NEXT STEPS
Choose an option below to see our pricing & galleries.
Our #1 priority is that you walk away with strong photos you love.
Learn how we do it in this short guide.
Our #1 priority is that you walk away with strong photos you love.
Learn how we do it in this short guide.
HELPFUL GUIDES & INFO
Planning a shoot? Check out some of our most popular guides:
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Still have questions?
Here are answers to the most common questions we get from clients before booking their headshot session:
Here are answers to the most common questions we get from clients before booking their headshot session:
How much do professional headshots cost in NYC?
Our headshot sessions start at $299. We offer both shorter sessions for people who need a few great images and longer sessions for clients who want multiple looks, outfit changes, and outdoor options. You can compare all packages and pricing on our Pricing page.
What should I wear for my headshot session?
Solid colors, well-fitting clothing, and outfits that match your profession or personal brand usually photograph best. Before your session we'll send helpful preparation information, and during your shoot we'll help you choose which outfits work best on camera. This article dives deep on clothing for headshots.
Do you help with posing and expressions?
Absolutely. Most of our clients tell us they're uncomfortable in front of a camera. That's why every session includes step-by-step guidance on posture, angles, and facial expressions so you look natural, confident, and approachable. We'll make sure you don't look stiff or overly posed!
What's the difference between LinkedIn, corporate, and actor headshots?
LinkedIn and corporate headshots are designed to build trust and professionalism, while actor headshots focus on character type, personality, and casting. We'll discuss your goals before the session and create images that fit your specific needs.
How long does a headshot session take?
Our Classic Headshot session typically takes around 20-30 minutes, while our Signature Session lasts 1–2 hours and includes multiple looks, backgrounds, and outdoor options.
How quickly will I receive my photos?
You'll receive your online proof gallery by 8:00 PM the same day as your session. Retouched images are typically delivered within 2–3 business days, and rush delivery is often available if needed.
Where is your NYC headshot studio located?
Our studio is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan at 2 West 46th Street, Suite 1500, just steps from Times Square, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal.
Do you retouch the final images?
Yes. Every package includes professionally retouched images. Our retouching removes temporary distractions while keeping you looking like yourself. The goal is a clean, professional look ("you on your best day")... not an overly edited photo.
Do you photograph corporate teams and company headshots?
Yes. We photograph corporate teams both in our Midtown Manhattan studio and at offices throughout New York City and the surrounding tri-state area. We've even traveled to Florida and Chicago for shoots. We can accommodate everything from individual executives to large teams and conferences.
Which headshot package should I choose?
If you only need a few strong professional images, our Classic Headshot is usually the best choice. If you'd like multiple outfits, outdoor images, or more variety, we generally recommend the Signature Session. And if you want a large range of images with plenty of time for variety, our larger Versatility Package is a great option. If you're unsure, we're always happy to help you choose.
What makes City Headshots different from other NYC photographers?
Since 2009, we've photographed more than 35,000 professionals, actors, entrepreneurs, and executives. Our specialty isn't just taking technically great photos... it's helping people who don't enjoy being photographed look relaxed, confident, and approachable through expert expression coaching.
Our headshot sessions start at $299. We offer both shorter sessions for people who need a few great images and longer sessions for clients who want multiple looks, outfit changes, and outdoor options. You can compare all packages and pricing on our Pricing page.
What should I wear for my headshot session?
Solid colors, well-fitting clothing, and outfits that match your profession or personal brand usually photograph best. Before your session we'll send helpful preparation information, and during your shoot we'll help you choose which outfits work best on camera. This article dives deep on clothing for headshots.
Do you help with posing and expressions?
Absolutely. Most of our clients tell us they're uncomfortable in front of a camera. That's why every session includes step-by-step guidance on posture, angles, and facial expressions so you look natural, confident, and approachable. We'll make sure you don't look stiff or overly posed!
What's the difference between LinkedIn, corporate, and actor headshots?
LinkedIn and corporate headshots are designed to build trust and professionalism, while actor headshots focus on character type, personality, and casting. We'll discuss your goals before the session and create images that fit your specific needs.
How long does a headshot session take?
Our Classic Headshot session typically takes around 20-30 minutes, while our Signature Session lasts 1–2 hours and includes multiple looks, backgrounds, and outdoor options.
How quickly will I receive my photos?
You'll receive your online proof gallery by 8:00 PM the same day as your session. Retouched images are typically delivered within 2–3 business days, and rush delivery is often available if needed.
Where is your NYC headshot studio located?
Our studio is conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan at 2 West 46th Street, Suite 1500, just steps from Times Square, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal.
Do you retouch the final images?
Yes. Every package includes professionally retouched images. Our retouching removes temporary distractions while keeping you looking like yourself. The goal is a clean, professional look ("you on your best day")... not an overly edited photo.
Do you photograph corporate teams and company headshots?
Yes. We photograph corporate teams both in our Midtown Manhattan studio and at offices throughout New York City and the surrounding tri-state area. We've even traveled to Florida and Chicago for shoots. We can accommodate everything from individual executives to large teams and conferences.
Which headshot package should I choose?
If you only need a few strong professional images, our Classic Headshot is usually the best choice. If you'd like multiple outfits, outdoor images, or more variety, we generally recommend the Signature Session. And if you want a large range of images with plenty of time for variety, our larger Versatility Package is a great option. If you're unsure, we're always happy to help you choose.
What makes City Headshots different from other NYC photographers?
Since 2009, we've photographed more than 35,000 professionals, actors, entrepreneurs, and executives. Our specialty isn't just taking technically great photos... it's helping people who don't enjoy being photographed look relaxed, confident, and approachable through expert expression coaching.