Preparing For Your Session

Have A Goal | How We Work | What To Wear | Hair & Makeup | More Questions?

Have a Goal

These are some questions to consider (and discuss with your representation, if you’re an actor) prior to your shoot:

-How many looks do you need? We need to know this info in advance so we can plan the timing of your session.
-If you’ve taken headshots before, what worked well in the past and what did not?
-Do you want studio light or natural light, or are you open to either?
-For actors: If you have representation, we need to know their needs first and foremost. We cannot stress this enough: you must get as much input as possible from your representation prior to the shoot. A theatrical agent generally wants a VERY different headshot than a commercial agent, for example. Make sure you have discussed specific goals with each agent or manager, and be doubly sure to share them with us prior to your shoot date for best results.
- Example photos are very helpful if you can get them — please email these in advance (or bring to your session, if you can’t email them.) Again, we need to know exactly what your representation needs so we can make everyone happy.

How We Work

Depending on the number of looks you need, an actor’s headshot session generally lasts from 1 – 3 hours (see our rates for more details). Most business & professional portrait sessions, which include one look, take between 30 minutes to an hour. That said, I never rush the process, and shoots are never scheduled one on top of the other.

Accordingly, set aside time in your day to devote full attention to your session. Book your appointment on a day when you can be 100% focused on the job at hand. Ideally you’ll avoid days when you have auditions or other important engagements so you can be “present” and focused on your headshots alone.

Get a full night of sleep beforehand and drink lots of water. It’s important to arrive well-rested, hydrated, and energized; I promise your session will be a fun way to spend your morning or afternoon!

What to Wear

Unless going for a specific “look,” try to choose simple, comfortable clothing that will let you – and not your wardrobe – shine. If you’re uncertain about what to wear, bring several options and we’ll help you choose what will read best on camera.

Steer clear of distracting patterns or prints and avoid logos if at all possible. A “pop” of color can be effective, however — choose the colors that best complement your hair color and eyes.

Actors: If we’re going for multiple looks, please bring a few wardrobe basics as well, like a simple T-shirt in blue, black, brown, grey or white.

For men, a classic crewneck or V-neck T-shirt are strong choices for men, but make sure it fits properly or it won’t “read” very well on-camera. Ideally it should be neither skin-tight nor too baggy; not stained or overly stretched out. When in doubt, buy a few inexpensive tees just for your headshot session (and save the receipt in case you don’t need them after all).

Women might want to bring a simple V-neck, jewelneck or boatneck sleeved top in black, blue, brown, grey, cream or white.

Bonus tip: Snap photos of your favorite outfits before the shoot and email them to your representation to solicit their opinions.

Comfortable shoes are a must, because we may walk to nearby locations and will likely be standing for a couple of hours.

On the other hand, if you have specific shoes that will help you achieve a desired look, consider bringing them. They might not appear on camera, but they may help you get into character.

Hair & Makeup

We work with a highly trained and experienced makeup artist (MUA) should you desire this service. In addition to makeup application, our MUA can also provide light hair styling and clothing consultation. Depending on the looks you’re going for, we tend to start with simple makeup and build as necessary. Our MUA’s rates start at $125 for the first two hours.

If you’d prefer to come camera-ready, we suggest arriving with makeup similar to what you’d wear to an audition or interview. Remember, this is photo makeup, not stage makeup; you are just trying to highlight your best features and camouflage imperfections while keeping your face fresh and natural. When in doubt, be conservative, and we can suggest touchups or additions to your makeup during the shoot. Please bring your favorite makeup or hair products; you’ll have space to lay out your items in the dressing room.

We also keep mineral face powder for most skin tones, makeup removal wipes, disposable razors & shaving cream, combs, mirrors, and allergy eye drops on hand for client use.