What's Involved in a Headshot Session?

When a client contacts me for the first time, they have already determined that they need "a headshot".  They have either found me by word of mouth, my marketing, or my Search Engine Optimization. Likely, if they found me through a search engine such as Google, they typed "headshot photographer near me" in the search bar. It's always important to me that I speak to this potential client over the phone. Why?  Simple. This client knows they need a profile photo to update their profile, but they may not have considered what's involved in a Headshot Session. 

Most people would think they will come in, stand or sit in front of the camera, take a few photos and be on their merry way. That's not entirely accurate. Especially if you are working with a Headshot Photographer like me.  There are several considerations that need to be taken into account before we schedule your session. Here are a few things I need to know:

Where will this Headshot be used?

Knowing where the photo will be used will guide me to the proper orientation of the image as well as the best poses for you. A website image could be either horizontal or vertical depending on your website designer's discretion. You may even choose to have two images as I do. One for the main page and another for your About Me page.  Then again, if this Headshot is for a relationship profile, we have more things to discuss later.

Would you like a traditional head and shoulders Headshot?

It's been standard practice to photograph a Headshot from the sternum to the top of the head, but more recently people have chosen to break away from the usual, posing from the waist up or even full-body profile images.  The latter leans towards Personal Branding Photography, which I also provide.

Would you want your Headshot done in studio or on location?

The studio provides several different background colors and scenes, while on location offers a different variety for your background. Environmental images, whether inside your business or out and about, are an option as well.

Will they need to match your Branding?

If this Headshot will be used on your business website or profile, you might consider dressing in colors and the style of your Brand's aesthetic.

What should you wear for your Headshot Session?

This will vary depending on your answers to some of the above questions. I'll also send my clients an FAQ after booking to consider some other things, such as making sure unwanted facial hair is taken care of, retouching roots has been done prior, and making sure that clothes are prepped and ready for your Headshot Session ahead of time.

What color background is required?

If you're using this Headshot for a business website or profile, consider if the background colors should match others in your company to keep the images cohesive.

What dimensions does the image need to be?

Your website designer will know what dimensions the Headshot files need to be to work best on your website.

I often have people tell me that they had not considered most of those questions and they appreciate me asking. It puts a little smile on my face to know that I'm able to help my clients get the best possible outcome from our time together. When you need a Headshot Photographer, I would appreciate you considering me, whether you're local to East Texas or further away. I love to travel to my clients. Be sure to click here to see some of my work or to book your next Headshot Session. 

Do you have other questions about Headshot Photography?  Leave them in the comments. I have more answers, but I didn't want to overwhelm you in this one blog post. Honestly, I am getting tired and my shoulders need me to go to bed.  Thanks for jumping on and reading these posts. It's encouraging to me to see that so many people take a few minutes out of their busy lives to read them.

Blessings,

Zoe