Professional Headshots - What should you expect?

When was the last time you stepped into a photography studio to update your headshot?  If you’re a professional, chances are you’ve done this before, but it’s definitely not at the top of the list…maybe not even in the middle of the list…but why not?

We all understand we need to do it, and it’s okay if it’s buried underneath everything else!  I’ve met very few people that are excited about taking headshots. 

Before we jump all the way into the topic, let’s discuss why we need updated headshots.  We have all witnessed a headshot of an individual and when we actually met them in person, we did not recognize them from their headshot.  We almost feel like we’ve been tricked or deceived!  :). This is the no judgment zone, so if that’s you…no worries!  I’m actually going to help you by giving you information to ease your emotions!

I believe the reason most people avoid headshots is because there isn’t enough information to the client regarding information on preparation.  We all like to be prepared.  A headshot session should be fun and you should walk away feeling good about yourself!

Let’s discuss what to expect when you work with Niomi and I.

Number 1 - Depending on the package you decide to purchase, I’m a strong believer in bringing as many outfits as you can.  The reason why I brought up packages, because each package has time durations.  I believe 60 minutes is the perfect length for a headshot session.  It gives you plenty of time to relax and get comfortable.  However, if you only have 30 minutes or less, that will work too, you just don’t get to spend as much time in the lights.  We will spend the first few minutes discussing your wardrobe choice and the overall fit.  Side note, clothes that fit snug look their best on camera.  I’m not referring to your buttons on your shirt/jacket screaming, but I am talking about a snug fit where collars and jackets aren’t shaped oddly at the shoulders due to them being too baggy.  Men - If you’re going to wear a collared shirt with no tie, make sure your collar is stiff and can stand on its own.  Starch the bejeebers out of it!  Ladies - ensure your blouse isn’t too baggy.

Number 2 - We will spend a few minutes talking about what you do, your passion and what drives you.  Why you may ask?  I’ve learned that people take their best headshots when they’ve relaxed and feel comfortable.  Some individuals don’t need this step, others may.  At the end of the day, I need to make sure you leave with images you’re proud of and half of the battle is getting you to follow directions. 

Number 3 - You’ll step into the lights and I will slowly give you details about finding the “sweet spot”. I used to talk about finding the “good side” of peoples faces, but soon realized that wasn’t the best approach.  Thanks to a fellow headshot photographer, I’ve heard him mention the “sweet spot” and now stealing that from him.  :). The sweet spot refers to your best side and angle, we all have one…or two.  In some cases, I’ve photographed people that pull off stellar images on both sides.  My goal in this step is to find your sweet spot and photograph it over and over with different expressions.

Number 4 - Once your sweet spot is found, I need to ensure you're giving me expressions that would be beneficial for a headshot.  I will never ask you to say, “cheese” or anything like that…where in the world did that come from anyways?   I’m constantly asking questions and engaging with you and I expect you to answer in a normal voice.  My goal for you is to forget I’m taking photos of you.  If I ask a question, it’s normal for individuals to try to answer the question with their mouth slightly closed and teeth together…like that is going to produce a good headshot!?  I tell them to continue talking normal and I’ll photograph through it and I’ll discard the ones that don’t work.  Again, my goal is to get you comfortable and relaxed so we can get to the sweet spot with your expressions.  Just like anything else, you get better as you do it more.  You only get better at basketball as you dribble more and take shots.  You get better at golf, as you swing the clubs and putt, and it’s the same with headshots.  You need to feel what it’s like to be photographed.  The sooner I can get you to forget about the camera and get you engaged in conversation, the sooner we can get to amazing headshot land.

Number 5 - Most individuals regardless of duration, I try to shoot in at least 1 outfit change.  This increases styles and looks and gives you more variety to choose from.  The next step is getting into additional outfits, even if it's just removing a tie or adding a sports coat.  It’s imperative you bring outfits that make you feel amazing!  Your selection should be garments that make you feel great!  After all, your wardrobe has this crazy ability to make you confident or slightly off. Don’t believe me?  Try showing up to an event under dressed and tell me how you feel.  You can also over-dress to an event and you’ll feel just as out of place.  Your mind plays a big part in your headshots as well.  I used to tell people they could come in sweatpants with a dress shirt and tie if they’d like(due to most of my photos I create are shoulders and up).  However, I’ve also noticed individuals don’t feel as confident dressed like that.  I now recommend you come prepared from head to toe, even though we won’t be photographing your trousers. 

Number 6 - After we’ve captured solid images, I will bring you over to the computer so you can review your photos.  By this time, we should have 50-75 images and we will quickly go through them.  Our goal is to get this down to roughly 20 images.  You will then select your favorites, along with my assistance if needed.  This process is crucial because I want you to select images you cannot live without.  I will help you with your selection process and will give you my expert advice, but when it comes down to it, it’s your image and you’ll pick your favorites. 

Number 7 - All digital images are edited myself unless stated within the package.  Headshots will be digitally delivered within 5-7 days, unless the photo is not being edited.  In that case, you will have the image when you leave. 

I hope this has shed light on the process of headshots and how we handle it at Rojas Photography!  We look forward to connecting with you and would love for you to reach out with questions! 

You can email us directly at Alfonso@RojasPhotography.net

Have a wonderful day! 

Alfonso