HEADSHOT INSTRUCTIONS

SESSION DETAILS
Headshot Instructions
Please review these instructions in their entirety and follow them for a smooth and efficient headshot session experience.
SESSION TIMES:
Headshot sessions are flexible and can be scheduled at any time during the day. Most sessions take place in the studio or at your office. If you prefer an outdoor headshot, we’ll need to use a shaded area to ensure the best lighting throughout the day. Fortunately, there is plenty of shade available outside the studio for outdoor sessions at any time.
We’ll work together to find a time that fits your schedule and provides the right environment for your headshot.
CLOTHING:
Choosing the right clothing and grooming details will make all the difference in your headshot. Below are guidelines tailored for both men and women to ensure your headshot looks professional and polished.
For Men:
- Blazers and Ties: Solid-colored blazers or suit jackets are always a good choice. For a more formal look, pair your jacket with a tie, but stick to solid colors or subtle patterns to avoid distractions.
- Facial Hair: If you prefer a clean-shaven look, make sure to shave on the day of the session, as stubble cannot be Photoshopped away. If you have a beard or mustache, make sure it’s neatly groomed.
- Shiny Skin: Bring a tissue or handkerchief to dab away any excess oil or shine from your face. Shiny skin can be highlighted by the studio lighting, and while some editing can help, it's best to reduce shine beforehand.
- Shirts: Opt for solid-colored shirts rather than bold patterns. A crisp, button-up shirt looks professional, and layering it with a jacket can add dimension.
For Women:
- Necklines and Sleeves: Tops with a modest neckline, such as V-necks or crew necks, work well in headshots. Avoid sleeveless tops, as exposed arms can draw attention away from your face. Adding a blazer or jacket can create a more professional and tailored look.
- Jewelry: Keep jewelry simple and understated. Small earrings or delicate necklaces are best to complement your face without distracting. Avoid anything too shiny or reflective.
- Makeup: Matte makeup works best for headshots, as shiny or glittery makeup can reflect light and become distracting. Use a light powder to control oily skin and reduce shine in the photos.
- Lipstick: Wear lipstick in a matte shade that matches your natural lip color or is slightly deeper. This helps even out your lip tone and adds definition to your face without being overpowering.
For Everyone:
- Solid Colors Over Patterns: Stick to solid colors that contrast nicely with the background, and avoid logos or graphics. If you're wearing darker colors, consider layering with a brighter top underneath to add contrast.
- Fit Matters: Make sure your clothing fits well to avoid it looking baggy or too tight. Tailored clothes photograph best and give a sharp, professional look.
- Glasses: If you wear glasses, ensure they are glare-resistant. Otherwise, you may need to adjust the position of your glasses to avoid reflections from the studio lighting.
THINGS TO AVOID WEARING:
To make sure your headshot looks polished and professional, here are a few things you should avoid:
- Busy Patterns or Stripes: Patterns can be distracting and may cause a visual effect known as moiré on camera, where the lines or grids appear distorted. Stick to solid colors for a cleaner look.
- Clothes That Don’t Fit Well: Avoid clothing that is too tight or too loose. Ill-fitting clothes can be unflattering in photos. Well-fitted outfits create a sharper, more professional look.
- Bright Whites or Flesh Tones: Wearing stark white or flesh-toned colors (like beige, peach, or light pastels) can blend into your skin, making the image look washed out. If you wear white, layer it under a jacket or sweater.
- Sleeveless Tops or Low Necklines: Bare arms or very low-cut tops can distract from your face, which is the focal point of a headshot. Stick to tops with sleeves and a modest neckline for a more balanced image.
- Shiny or Glittery Makeup: Shimmering or glossy makeup can reflect light, causing distractions. Opt for a matte finish instead, and consider using a light powder to reduce shine on your skin.
- Large, Reflective Jewelry: Avoid oversized, flashy jewelry, as it can reflect light or steal attention away from your face. Simple and understated accessories work best.
- Clothing with Logos or Graphics: Logos, text, and graphic designs can divert attention from your face and make the headshot look less professional.
WHAT TO TELL YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER:
To ensure you get a headshot you’re happy with, it’s important to share any specific concerns or preferences you have. Here are some things to consider:
- Skin Concerns: If you have acne, uneven skin tone, or any other skin concerns, let me know. I can retouch these areas to give your image a smooth and natural look.
- Preferred Angles: If you have a particular angle or side of your face you feel most confident about, let me know, and I’ll do my best to highlight it in your photos.
- Features You Dislike: Whether it’s a double chin, wrinkles, or any other feature that makes you feel self-conscious, mentioning it allows me to adjust the lighting or your pose to minimize those areas.
- Glasses: Most glasses can be managed for glare, but some may still cause reflections that are difficult to avoid. If you have this issue, your images may need to be sent to a retoucher for further editing to remove glare.
Remember, my goal is to make sure you feel great about your headshot, so don’t hesitate to let me know any concerns ahead of time!
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE SESSION?
If your headshot session is at the studio, we will review the images immediately, as they are tethered to my laptop. You will choose your favorite image(s) during the session, and I will send the final edited version via email, Dropbox, or my website within 4-48 hours.
For off-site headshots where images are not tethered, you will receive access to an online gallery to choose your image(s). Please note that these images will be unedited, uncropped, and not yet retouched. Once you select your final image(s), I will edit and deliver them within 48 hours via email, Dropbox, or through my website.
Additionally, your images may be used on my website or social media. If you prefer not to have your images used for marketing purposes, simply send me an email at ursulapage@gmail.com to let me know. Please make sure I respond to your email so you know I received your request. I’m happy to honor this request, but it must be made at the time of your session or before.
OTHER THINGS TO NOTE:
- Arrive Dressed: Please arrive already dressed in the outfit you’d like to be photographed in, as there may not be time to change.
- Bathroom Available: There is a bathroom available if you need a mirror for last-minute touch-ups.
- Studio Location: If your headshot session is at the studio, make sure to read the directions carefully. The entrance is at the back of the house, and there are specific parking instructions included with your booking confirmation.
- Touch-Up Essentials for Women: If you're a female client, be sure to bring your touch-up lipstick and powder for any reapplication needed during the session.
QUESTIONS?
I am happy to discuss with you any questions or additional clothing options so please feel free to call me or e-mail me with any questions. And please check out the family gallery on my website and blog for ideas you may want to incorporate into your session.