About Us
Have you ever felt awkward on camera and unsure of what to do? We totally get it.
That's why we've spent over a decade studying every possible technique to make our shoots simple and easy. We'll not only help you capture strong expressions in your headshots, but we also promise to make your shoot enjoyable (seriously)!
It makes us so happy when people tell us at the end of their shoot, "This is honestly the best picture I've ever had."
Here are a few things that make us different than most other photographers:
That's why we've spent over a decade studying every possible technique to make our shoots simple and easy. We'll not only help you capture strong expressions in your headshots, but we also promise to make your shoot enjoyable (seriously)!
It makes us so happy when people tell us at the end of their shoot, "This is honestly the best picture I've ever had."
Here are a few things that make us different than most other photographers:
- We care about the expressions in your headshots. Most photographers aren't great at directing expression. You can literally see it in people's headshots online! If you look carefully, you’ll probably notice that most people have fake smiles or uncomfortable expressions in their shots. But a weak expression can literally mean the difference between a photo that opens up new opportunities... and one that doesn't. That's why we've spent over a decade studying everything related to human expression, from how the eyes can help us look more confident to how certain muscles in the jaw must be engaged for genuine smiles (the masseters and temporalis muscles if you really want to know 😉).
- We specialize in working with people who don't have much experience on camera. Since 2009, we've shot over 25,000 headshot clients collectively, and we've been consistently working to get better and better at capturing photos that get our clients work.
- We'll help you use your photos effectively. We're always happy to jump on a call to help find your brand and discuss what type of shot will work best for your career. And after the shoot, we'll explain exactly how to use your headshots to get the most out of them.
- Our team is fully dedicated to you. We don't have a wide array of photographers with varying levels of experience and training who come in as needed. We're a small team that works every day to direct and capture great expressions and help our clients feel at-ease throughout their shoot.
- We back our shoots 100%. Although it's rare, if for some reason you were unhappy and there was nothing we could do to fix it, you can ask for a free reshoot or full refund (including the makeup fee). We want you to have a great experience!
Martin Bentsen (Founder)
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Hey, I'm Martin, and I appreciate that you've taken the time to check out City Headshots! My team is a fun and highly talented group of people who each bring something unique to your headshot experience.
I started City Headshots back in 2009 as a way to offer great-quality headshots to business people and actors in New York City, and over time I learned what matters most to our clients - a personalized, guided session that allows us to capture great photos of you in a relaxed environment. A little about me, I graduated from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in 2011 with an honors degree, and I specialize in teaching clients how to brand and present themselves online, not only with their new headshots, but also through emails, coaching, and online courses I offer. I'll finish up by saying how grateful I am to everyone we've had the opportunity to work with. We've been fortunate to have had our headshot work in The New York Times & The Wall Street Journal, we've been featured on the Rachael Ray Show, and we've shot numerous times for well known companies like American Express, Facebook, and LinkedIn Corp. We've collectively shot over 25,000 clients since 2009, including some sports and TV stars (Serge Ibaka, David Shuster, and Brian Kelly). At least a few times a month a client we've worked with tells us their headshots helped them land a new job or great opportunity. It's amazing to hear about everyone's success, and I hope it continues for each of our clients. |
Samantha
Head Photographer + Studio Manager
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Hi, I'm Sam! I found a love for photography at age thirteen and haven't put my camera down since. My interest in capturing subjects in photos soon turned into curiosity about short and feature filmmaking, leading to a degree in both film and rhetoric. Having closely studied interpersonal communication with the technical and creative details of cinematography and still imagery, I've learned the fine art of turning visual ideas into realities.
Over the years I have been fortunate enough to shoot for comedy performers for the Edinburgh and Dublin Fringe Festivals and write, produce and edit shorts for actors' reels. From the conception of a project to the styling & branding of a final show or character type, collaboration is my favorite way to work. I have been lucky enough to have had my work featured in Chicago's playbill and Billboard Magazine, and clients of mine include National Geographic, Twitter, Facebook, and American Express. Besides working at City Headshots, I dabble with all things YouTube and am in preproduction for a stop-motion short. I enjoy tea and music and I'd absolutely love the opportunity to work with you! |
Janelle
Photographer + Makeup Artist
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Hey there! My name is Janelle and I've been interested in the art of make-up and photography since I was 13 years old. I have always been fascinated with not only the transformative nature of makeup and lighting but the confidence my use of these brought to the people I work with. Later I learned how to accentuate beauty in a way that brings out the essence in my clients and how to photograph them in a way that made them feel and look confident. I always aim to leave people feeling great about their appearance and ready to tackle whatever’s ahead of them.
I have been working for City Headshots for 2 years and I'm elated everyday to have the opportunity to work with all different types of people. No matter your background, ethnicity, or job description, rest assured that our team will work our hardest to make sure you’re picture perfect! |
Ryan
Photographer + Videographer
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Hello! My name’s Ryan! I am a videographer and Photographer based in Brooklyn, NY and I’ve previously worked on acting reels and voice over demos for various NYC studios since graduating from Purchase College School of Film and Media studies in 2020. My experience has given me the opportunity to work closely with major talent agents in NY and from around the country.
During my time in college I produced 2 short films that will soon be taking the festival route and I am happy to say that I continue to work on various, creative independent projects whenever an opportunity arises. My passion to create top quality photo and video content has led me to City Headshots where everyday I’m always looking forward to capturing your best angle! |
Dakota
Our Mascot
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Hey, I'm Dakota! I'm Martin's awesome husky dog and I love having pictures taken of me. Did you know I starred in a movie as a puppy? Check it out!
Dakota: Dedicated to My Best Friend Unfortunately I don't get to hang out at the studio, but if you ever want to meet me in person, just let Martin know! I hope your headshot turns out as good as mine :) |
