Frequent Questions
How far in advance do you book out?
Depending on whether you need photography or video, the answer can be quite different. For photography we generally suggest you book a few days in advance, but it all depends on the length of the package. Adding makeup to a package means your session will be longer, and that translates to less availability in the booking calendar. If you need something right away, a Single-Look Shoot without makeup is going to give you the most options and can often be done same-day or next.
For video and full branding projects, there is a lot that more goes into them, and they usually are best booked about 2-3 weeks in advance, depending on how much work will need to be done to prepare for the actual shoot day(s).
For video and full branding projects, there is a lot that more goes into them, and they usually are best booked about 2-3 weeks in advance, depending on how much work will need to be done to prepare for the actual shoot day(s).
Do you work with kids?
We do! We have the most experience with kids ages 7 and up, but if you have someone younger, we're happy to discuss with you beforehand to see if we'd be a good fit.
How do I edit or change my booking?
Unfortunately our booking system does not allow for changes to be made3 after you've booked a slot. Please email us at info@cityheadshots.com and we should be able to help you change your time. One reschedule is allowed after you've placed the deposit without forfeiting the booking deposit.
What's the most important thing I should know?
Come to your shoot with a positive attitude, and make the most out of your final product by following the guidance in the information that will be sent to you. Read more about this here
Can you make me look more tan or thin?
For a photography shoot, we can definitely alter the way you look in Photoshop after the shoot or with lighting and camera angles during the shoot Video however, can be a little tricky and we are less likely to be able to change the way you look.
You should note that it's generally advised that you look as close as possible to the way you do in real life so it doesn't seem like you're trying to hide something. That being said, we're happy to shoot and do whatever we can to ensure you're happy if you have specific requests.
You should note that it's generally advised that you look as close as possible to the way you do in real life so it doesn't seem like you're trying to hide something. That being said, we're happy to shoot and do whatever we can to ensure you're happy if you have specific requests.
Can you Photoshop out Invisalign?
Not a problem! We've done it many times. In most cases, however, it won't be an issue since it's very small and hard to see. On video, although it can't be photoshopped, it almost certainly won't be visible.
Do I need to bring my own clothes?
Yes, but we do carry a small assortment of ties in case you forget and want to borrow one. But for clothing itself, 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 will help you decide what will work best. If you're not sure what to bring, please read the next question.
What should I wear?
It is best to avoid wearing white or other very pale colors (unless it is a shirt under a jacket). Deep, rich jewel tones look great. Don't wear wild patterns or logos on your clothing and generally it is customary to not wear jewelry if you're an actor. Layers are great for men, with mostly single color shirts and jackets. If you're just doing headshots, remember that they don't typically show your pants, so you don't have to worry about that. Feel free to bring a few things and we'll decide what's best when you get here, or if your shoot includes a styling consultation beforehand, all these questions will be answered for you. Read more about what to wear: Actors or Non-Actors.
What should I bring?
Great question. Think about what looks you plan to do for your photo session or how you want to appear in the video, and then bring anything that can help you achieve those looks. Take a look at this article to learn all about what you might want to bring to your shoot: What to Bring to Your Photo or Video Shoot.
Can I bring a friend?
Absolutely. Feel free to bring along your friend, parent, or significant other with you while you're doing your shoot.
If you and your friend want to both do a headshot or branding session, we can offer a discount for each of you. If you schedule with a few people, the discount per person will be even larger. Shoot us an email and we'll let you know the rate, depending on which package you book and how many people are coming together!
If you and your friend want to both do a headshot or branding session, we can offer a discount for each of you. If you schedule with a few people, the discount per person will be even larger. Shoot us an email and we'll let you know the rate, depending on which package you book and how many people are coming together!
How does payment work?
We can take credit cards or cash, but we don't take checks (except for large office shoots). A deposit is due to book the shoot, and balance payments are made at the end of the session.
Payment Plans: if you are unable to pay for the session in full, we can do the shoot with you for the deposit up front, and then after you have paid the remaining balance, we will send you all the images. Just try to be timely about it, as we cannot hold on to finished projects for longer than two months without receiving payment.
Payment Plans: if you are unable to pay for the session in full, we can do the shoot with you for the deposit up front, and then after you have paid the remaining balance, we will send you all the images. Just try to be timely about it, as we cannot hold on to finished projects for longer than two months without receiving payment.
How long until I get my final deliverables?
Headshot images will be sent to you in full quality via a download link by the end of the day for shoots ending before 4pm. Shoots after 4pm will have images sent out the next day.. Video usually takes a few weeks at most to edit, but the specifics of turnaround time will be discussed via email. Other types of photography can take a few days to send out.
As soon as you get back to us with which pictures you want touched up if any (or modifications you need to the edited video), we will have your adjustments back to you within 2-3 business days. If you need modifications right away, there may be an additional charge. We can usually make it happen, but try to let us know as soon as possible.
As soon as you get back to us with which pictures you want touched up if any (or modifications you need to the edited video), we will have your adjustments back to you within 2-3 business days. If you need modifications right away, there may be an additional charge. We can usually make it happen, but try to let us know as soon as possible.
Should I shoot in the studio or outdoors?
Either one works. Outdoor headshots or video are good for all 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. It's usually quieter inside, so if you're doing a video that needs great sound, we might suggest recording the sound portions indoors.
For headshots, you'll have fewer options of backgrounds if you choose to shoot indoors, but if your session is more than thirty minutes long, you can opt to do both indoor and outdoor shots. Check out Our Backdrop Recommendations here.
For headshots, you'll have fewer options of backgrounds if you choose to shoot indoors, but if your session is more than thirty minutes long, you can opt to do both indoor and outdoor shots. Check out Our Backdrop Recommendations here.
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 will be no additional time added for styling, and they must use their own equipment. It is recommended that you come mostly camera-ready and then the stylist can make some final touchups before we begin shooting. They are more than welcome to stay during the shoot to ensure you look your best. If you'd like additional time for styling at the studio, we recommend using our stylist, or there may be additional charges
Can I purchase additional retouched photos?
Yes. Retouched images are charged per picture or in package deals. If you'd like retouching done to your photos, just ask. Retouching takes about 2-3 business days (and if you need it done immediately, there is a small additional charge).
What format are the images and video 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.
Videos are typically shot and delivered in h.264 format, which is 1080p HD and looks beautiful both online and on television screens. For larger formats and specialty projects that will be displayed in theaters or on billboards, email us for a quote.
Videos are typically shot and delivered in h.264 format, which is 1080p HD and looks beautiful both online and on television screens. For larger formats and specialty projects that will be displayed in theaters or on billboards, email us for a quote.
Do I get a disk with my final images or video?
You will receive a link to download any finalized deliverables to your computer. The link will be live by the end of the day, but if you'd like a disk of your deliverables, there is a $75 fee.
