Headshot Photography: A Step-By-Step Guide
JOB TYPE: Headshot photography
JOB DETAILS: A Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Headshot and What to Expect From Start to Finish.
Making Your Headshot Booking
Booking your headshot session is simple and straightforward. Here’s how to get started:
1. **Discussing Your Requirements**: Are you booking for just yourself or a team of 100+ people? Do you need a plain, solid-coloured background or a lifestyle-oriented look? Also, do you need to match any corporate colours or previous company photos?
2. **Pick Your Location**: I have my own studio where headshots can be taken, but the more popular option with clients is for me to bring a small portable setup to your workplace or home. My portable setup is compact and ideal for spaces around 2m x 2.5m (6ft x 8ft). If neither of these options works for you, I can also arrange to use various other studios across London or the UK (additional fees may apply for travel or studio bookings outside of my setup).
3. **Set Your Date and Time**: Choose a convenient date and time for your session. I recommend booking at least a week in advance to secure your preferred slot, but I’ll always do my best to accommodate last-minute bookings if needed.
4. **Confirm Your Booking**: Once you’ve selected your package, location, and date, I’ll send a confirmation email with all the details. This will also include any preparation tips to help you get ready for your shoot.
5. **Payment**: The payment structure will depend on the size of your booking. Generally, I’m happy for you to pay either before the session or before you receive your finished image(s). For larger bookings, a deposit may also be required to secure your slot.
Preparing For The Day
To ensure your session goes smoothly and you look your best, here are a few tips to help you prepare:
1. **Clothing**: Choose clothes that make you feel confident and comfortable. Solid colours work best, and avoid busy patterns that can distract from your face. Bring a couple of options, just in case we need to change things up. Please also remember to iron any clothing that tends to crease easily. It helps ensure you look sharp and polished in your photos.
2. **Hair and Makeup**: If you plan to wear makeup, consider going for a natural look that enhances your features. For hair, it’s best to arrive with it styled the way you like it. If you need a quick touch-up, feel free to bring along any hair products or makeup for last-minute adjustments. If you plan to visit a hairdresser beforehand, it’s a good idea to give the new style a day or two to settle before your session. This will help it look more natural and ensure you’re happy with the final result.
3. **Rest**: A good night’s sleep before your session can make a big difference in how you look and feel. It helps you look refreshed and ready to shine.
4. **Hydration**: Drink plenty of water the day before and the morning of your shoot. It will keep your skin looking healthy and glowing.
5. **Timing**: Arrive on time so we can get started without feeling rushed. The session will be relaxed, but having a little extra time ensures we can get the best results.
6. **Be Yourself**: Most importantly, come with a positive attitude and be ready to have fun! The goal is to capture you at your best, so don’t stress—just be yourself.
What To Expect During Your Shoot
Here’s a quick guide to help you know what to expect on the day of your headshot session:
1. **The pre-game Warm Up**: We start by having a quick chat to discuss the look and feel you want for your headshot. Whether it’s professional and polished, or more relaxed and approachable, we’ll ensure we’re on the same page. If you’re unsure, don’t worry—I’ll guide you through it!
2. **Prepare for the Session**: We’ll check your clothing, ensuring ties are straight and collars are down for a polished look. I’ll also share posture and expression tips to help you feel at ease.
3. **The Shooting Process**: The shoot itself is relaxed and collaborative. I’ll direct you on posing, how to position your body, and the best angles. I’ll take a variety of shots from different angles and distances to give you options to choose from. We’ll focus on making sure you feel natural and confident, capturing the best version of you.
4. **Reviewing the Shots**: After the first round of images, we’ll take a quick look at the photos together on a separate monitor. This allows us to fine-tune any details, adjust your pose, or change things up if needed. If you’d like to try a different look or background, we can make those adjustments on the spot.
5. **Relax and Have Fun**: Headshot sessions should feel easy-going, and most clients tell me they enjoy the process. The more relaxed you are, the better your photos will turn out, so we’ll make sure it’s a fun and stress-free experience.
6. **Wrap-Up**: During the final review, we’ll choose your favourite shot(s) from the monitor. Additionally, I can provide a watermarked gallery link. You’ll leave with confidence, knowing we’ve captured headshots that truly represent you and your brand.
What happens after your Headshot Photography Session
After your headshot photography session, there are a few key steps that typically follow to ensure you receive your final images and have a smooth experience:
1. **Reviewing the Photos**: **Reviewing the Photos**: If you didn’t choose during the session, you can now review a watermarked gallery of images. This is your chance to discuss preferred shots and request any specific retouching or edits.
2. **Editing & Retouching**: After selecting your image, I’ll edit it with colour correction, skin smoothing, background adjustments, and enhancements. But only if necessary.
3. **Delivery of Final Images**: Within 48 hours of your session, you’ll receive your finalised images in high-resolution format, ideal for both print and web use, via a downloadable gallery.
4. **Follow-up (If Needed)**: If you’d like any specific edits or changes after receiving your final images, you can request them. Please note that additional fees may apply for substantial revisions.
London Headshot Photography
Final Thoughts
Booking your headshot session is simple with this guide, ensuring a smooth, stress-free process for the perfect result. If you have questions, feel free to reach out—I’m here to help!
If you have any questions or would like to book a session, please feel free to use the contact form found HERE.
JOB TYPE: Headshot photography
JOB DETAILS: A Step-by-Step Guide to Booking Your Headshot and What to Expect From Start to Finish.
Small Space Images is a proud member of The Society of International Commercial and Industrial Photographers (SICIP), a long-established professional photographers’ association based in the UK, serving photographers worldwide. SICIP is one of the UK’s leading qualifying bodies for professionals in the Commercial and Industrial photography sector.