Client Prep Guide · Headshots
Get Ready for Your Headshot
A few simple steps before your session so you walk away with a headshot you actually want to use.
A few simple steps before your session so you walk away with a headshot you actually want to use.
You don't need to be photogenic. You just need to show up rested, in clothes you feel good in, and let me handle the rest.
I'll coach you on posing and expression the whole time, so you never have to guess what to do with your hands.
Wear what you'd wear to an important meeting in your industry, then go one step nicer. The goal is for people to notice your face first, not your outfit.
Bring 2 to 3 tops on hangers, plus any layers. We'll pick the strongest one together at the start. If your package includes multiple looks, plan one dressier and one more relaxed.
If you wear glasses most of the time, wear them. People should recognize you. Anti-glare lenses help, and I'll adjust my lighting to keep reflections down.
Check your website, LinkedIn banner, or company colors. A top that works with those makes your headshot look intentional everywhere you use it.
Look like yourself on a really good day. Don't try anything new right before your session.
Get a haircut 5 to 7 days before, not the day before, so it has time to settle. Style it the way you normally wear it.
Shave the morning of for a clean look, or trim and shape your beard a day or two ahead. Fresh lines look sharp on camera.
Your usual everyday makeup, just a touch more polished. Matte foundation and powder help since lights pick up shine. Skip heavy shimmer. Want a pro? Ask me for a hair and makeup recommendation.
Drink water and sleep well the few nights before. Avoid new skincare, facials, or spray tans within a week. A breakout? Don't stress. Temporary blemishes are covered in retouching.
If your hands might show, make sure nails are clean and polish isn't chipped.
Tap to check things off as you go. Your progress saves on this device.
Most people are nervous for the first five minutes. That's normal, and it passes fast.
We'll look at what you brought and pick the best option for the lighting and background.
The first few frames are just to get comfortable. Nobody nails it in the first shot.
I'll guide your posture, chin, shoulders, and expression. You'll see images on screen as we go so you can tell me what you like.
We'll get a confident, approachable look and a few genuine smiles. Laughing is encouraged.
No waiting weeks for proofs. You pick your favorites before I pack up, and your final images arrive within 48 hours.
We'll review your images together on screen and choose the number included in your package. Want more? Extra images can be added right there.
I get to work on your selected images so they're polished and ready to use.
Your retouched final images arrive in a download gallery.
Booking for a team? Your delivery timeline is listed on your invoice.
Download them and back them up right away! Save them to your computer and a cloud folder as soon as your gallery arrives.
The result? You’ll look like you, on your best day.
Everything above applies to each person. A few extras keep the day running smoothly.
Decide as a team on blazers, business casual, or company colors. A consistent look makes your staff page feel polished.
Each person has a short window. Arriving 5 minutes early keeps the whole schedule on track.
Please forward this page to everyone being photographed, not just the organizer.
I'll need a room or open area about 10 by 12 feet with a nearby outlet, available 45 minutes before the first headshot and 45 minutes after the last for setup and breakdown. I bring the backdrop, lights, and everything else.
Need to move your session? Give me at least 72 hours' notice and you can reschedule once at no charge.
For outdoor sessions, I'll reach out if conditions look bad and we'll pick a new time or move indoors.
Not sure about something? Text or email me a photo before your session and I'll give you a quick yes or no.