Frequent Questions
How far in advance do you book Out?
In general, we book a few days in advance to a week, 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. Same thing with longer packages that don't include makeup. 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.
What's the most important thing I should know?
If there was one thing you should know before setting up a headshot session, this is it: Come to your shoot with a positive attitude, and make the most out of your headshots by following the guidance in the information that will be sent to you. Guess that's two things. Read more about this here.
Can you Make me look more tan or thin?
We can definitely change the way you look in Photoshop or with lighting and trick camera angles, but 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 you want to ensure you're happy.
Can you Photoshop Out Invisalign?
That's absolutely not a problem. We've done it many times.
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 very pale colors like white or pale yellow as the main color (though you can wear them underneath a jacket). Deep colors are great as long as they don't overpower and draw attention away from you. 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. Also, remember that headshots 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. Read more about what to wear: Actors or Non-Actors
What should I bring?
Great question. You want to think about what looks you plan to do for your session, 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 Headshot Session
Can I bring a friend for a discount or just to hang out?
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 session, we offer a 15% 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 session, we offer a 15% 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 cards or cash, but we don't do checks (except for large office shoots). Every once in a while, something happens with a personal check and it just becomes a hassle, so we no longer take them. Cash or card are easiest, and if you need an invoice/receipt, that's no problem at all, just ask. 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 images for longer than two months.
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 images for longer than two months.
How long until I get my pictures?
Your images will be sent to you in full quality via a download link after you leave, same day (as long as we finish before 4pm). As soon as you get back to us with which pictures you want touched up if any, we will have your touched up images ready for you within 2-3 business days. If you need them right away, there is an immediate retouch charge. We can usually make it happen, but try to let us know as soon as possible. Learn more about retouching here.
Should I shoot in the studio or outdoors?
Either one works. Outdoor headshots are good for all different looks and options with natural lighting and blurred backgrounds, and indoor shots are good for flat backdrops, simpler blurry backdrops, or when the weather is bad. 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.
How much are additional retouched photos?
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 (if you need it done immediately, there is a small additional charge).
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 and low-res JPEGs. Digital and color is the standard these days for actors and business-people.
Do I get a CD with all my images?
You will receive a link to download all the high-res images to your computer. The link will be live by the end of the day, but if you'd like a disk of your images, it is $25.
The Takeaway
Martin, City Headshots® Founder
I commend you for doing your research ahead of time, because it means you're putting in the work to ensure your shoot goes as smoothly as possible.
Further Reading:
I have a great page called Get the Greatest Headshots of Your Life with a bunch of extremely helpful info. If you sign up to access everything, I'll send you the page, along with adding you into our monthly $650 headshot drawing! Click here to sign up and get the goods.
Further Reading:
I have a great page called Get the Greatest Headshots of Your Life with a bunch of extremely helpful info. If you sign up to access everything, I'll send you the page, along with adding you into our monthly $650 headshot drawing! Click here to sign up and get the goods.
