Frequent Questions
Should I shoot in the studio or outdoors?
Outdoor headshots are good for different looks and options with natural lighting and blurred backgrounds, and indoor shoots are good for flat backdrops, simpler blurry backdrops, or when the weather is bad.
For actor headshots we generally recommend indoor with a darker, muted backdrop so the focus is fully on your face.
For business & LinkedIn photos, a flat backdrop is great if you want to keep things simple and traditional, but outdoor and blurred backgrounds can work great if you want a more modern, stylized shot. This guide dives deeper on backdrops & which ones work best for specific industries.
For actor headshots we generally recommend indoor with a darker, muted backdrop so the focus is fully on your face.
For business & LinkedIn photos, a flat backdrop is great if you want to keep things simple and traditional, but outdoor and blurred backgrounds can work great if you want a more modern, stylized shot. This guide dives deeper on backdrops & which ones work best for specific industries.
Do I need to bring my own clothes?
Yes. Because everyone is a different size, wears different styles, and there are sanitary issues, we do not have clothing here for you. Please bring your own clothing when you come in and we can help you decide what will work best.
Learn what colors and clothing look best on camera.
Also, here's a full guide on how to prepare for a headshot session.
Learn what colors and clothing look best on camera.
Also, here's a full guide on how to prepare for a headshot session.
What's your reschedule and cancellation process?
In general, we try to work with you as best we can. As long as you give us at least a day's notice, rescheduling or cancelling is not an issue (except for larger, group shoots, where we ask for at least 72 hours notice).
Last-minute cancellations, reschedules, or no-shows may forfeit the deposit. You can read about the booking deposit here.
Last-minute cancellations, reschedules, or no-shows may forfeit the deposit. You can read about the booking deposit here.
What's included in my package?
A breakdown of what's included in all packages can be found here.
Do I need to arrive early if I booked makeup with my shoot?
Nope! We've built in extra time to the shoot length itself. Please arrive within 5-10 minutes of your scheduled shoot start time.
Can you shoot at my location?
Sure! If you want us to travel to your location or office, you'll need to email us at [email protected] so we can coordinate and let you know the total rate. Our online scheduling software only works for shoots done at or near our studios.
Do you shoot events?
We do! We offer photography AND videography services for events. We shoot conferences, weddings, parties, corporate retreats, and more. Learn about our event work by clicking here.
How far in advance do you book out?
We often have availability for same-day bookings, especially for our Pro-Level Portraits packages. For Deluxe packages we usually suggest booking at least a few days in advance. Also, please note that adding makeup to a package means your session will be longer, and that translates to less availability.
Do you work with kids?
We do! We work best with kids ages 8 and up.
Do you have a place for me to change?
We have a privacy changing screen which works well, or if you'd like, there is a restroom in our building you can go to. You will have some time before your shoot begins to do some makeup touchups and get ready, but please try not to take more than 5-10 minutes so we have plenty of time for the shoot itself.
What format are the images shot in?
Images are shot digital, RAW, and in color (if you need, we can convert a photo to black and white for no additional charge). We convert them and send them to you in high-res JPEGs. We will send you the photos via an online, private download link. If you need them sent in a different format, it's usually no problem but please email us at [email protected] to confirm before booking.
Can you make me look more tan or thin?
We can definitely alter the way you look in Photoshop or with lighting and camera angles during the shoot.
It's generally advised that you look as close as possible to the way you do in real life, but we're happy to do whatever you prefer!
It's generally advised that you look as close as possible to the way you do in real life, but we're happy to do whatever you prefer!
What else should I bring?
Great question. Think about what looks you plan to do for your photo session, and then bring anything that can help you achieve those looks. Take a look at this link to learn how to prepare: How to Get the Most Out of Your Headshot Session.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely! And if your friend also wants to take headshots, we offer a Bring a Friend discount. We also offer group discounts if you want to come with a few people. Just email us and we'll let you know what's possible.
How does payment work?
We can take credit cards or cash, but we don't take checks (except for larger, office shoots). A deposit is due to book the shoot, and balance payments are made at the end of the session.
How long until I get my final images?
Your high-resolution image gallery will be sent via a download link by no later than 8pm the same day as the shoot!
Retouching usually takes 2-3 business days, and if you need something right away, just let us know and we'll do our best to make it happen.
Retouching usually takes 2-3 business days, and if you need something right away, just let us know and we'll do our best to make it happen.
How do I prepare for a Virtual Headshot Session?
This guide is emailed out automatically when you book, but some people have trouble finding it. Here's the link to learn how to set up and prepare properly.
Can I use my own stylist?
You may opt to use your own hair stylist or makeup artist for your shoot, however please note that there is a $50 fee for up to 45 minutes of extra studio time for styling. Also, please note that they must have their own equipment. If you prefer to avoid the fee for extra studio time, we recommend you come mostly camera-ready and then your stylist can make some final touchups for a few minutes before we begin shooting.
It is best to use a stylist who specializes in headshot photography and understands what works well on camera. Here's our guide on how to do makeup for headshots.
It is best to use a stylist who specializes in headshot photography and understands what works well on camera. Here's our guide on how to do makeup for headshots.
What's the most important thing I should know?
We will guide you through everything and make your shoot super easy. Learn all about our shoot process here. If you have any concerns, feel free to email us!