Do you have a website that’s being redone and your photograph needs updating? Have you always dreamed about becoming a model but have no photographs of yourself? Are you an executive that has changed companies, or looking for a different look for your promotional material? Maybe you have just written a book, started a new home based business and need a headshot? All of these requests come into my portrait studio throughout the year. Each one requires special attention to clothing and location.

Executives:

Avoid stripes and patterns. Clothing should be pressed, neat and fit well. Ladies if you are wearing jewelry keep it simple. Men, please chose a basic tie, shave or beards need to be trimmed. If you hair is too long, make your appointment for a haircut a week before the session. Professional make-up done on site is the norm. I will be taking a variety of shots: Full length, ¾ and close-up. Some shots will be formal, some more casual. You will have plenty to choose from.

 Authors, Actors and Other Professionals:

Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and gives you a professional look. Lighter clothing is better than darker. Avoid stripes and patterns. Bring several outfit changes and include short and long sleeve shirts. Long sleeves can be very flattering. Men, if you need a haircut, please make your appointment a week before the session. Everything shows. Shave if you like that look or trim your beard. Collared button down shirts photograph well. Ladies, have your hair done the day of the session if you have a specific look you enjoy. Make-up should be natural and what you commonly use for day wear. I will be taking a variety of shots: Full length, ¾ and close-up. Make sure you can sit comfortably in whatever clothing you have decided to wear.

 Models:

I like to provide a “model” client with four completely different photographs. Scouts like to see how the person may photograph in different settings so I use at least two different locations. I make a formal type shot, a casual, an active shot, a variety of close-up, ¾ and full length views, black and white and color. For the scruffy look for men, I suggest starting off with that look. Then shaving and changing clothes for the rest of the session. The planning stages involve finding out what activities the client enjoys most. I suggest bringing several outfits for each setting and I can choose what will work best the day of the session. Often, I provide the client with an 8×10 which includes a mix of photographs and the statistics like name, height, weight, contact number, and so on.

Personal, Online Dating:

For this photography session I recommend wearing clothing that makes you feel attractive. Bring a variety of outfits so that there will be much to choose from. Lighter colors work well than darker. Again, avoid stripes and bold patterns; the viewer wants to concentrate on your face, not your clothing. I like to choose a location that you enjoy going to; be it a beach, a garden, a park. I need you to be relaxed and content so your comfort is paramount! I will be photographing a headshot, a three quarter view and a full length so whatever you decide to wear make sure you can sit as well as stand.

Whatever your situation is, having professional headshots made gives a great first impression to your clients, your readers, modeling agencies, potential dating partners.