Preparation for the shoot
Just Before the Shoot
Prior to the shoot, we'll have discussed location. We'll either meet at the desired location or at a central location and carpool to the spot. We'll have a chat, get to know one another's ideas and visions for the shoot. Rule #1: This is a collaborative process. We'll share ideas and come up with inventive and interesting ways of achieving our goals as a team.
Wardrobe
You need to bring several choices. Whether we are shooting one look or six looks, we need choices. Some things you think would look great on you, look distorted or distracting through the camera lens. This can be a trial and error process, which is why you must bring options. Here are some basic guidelines:
No Patterns - Unless discussed prior with me.
No Logos - Small logos can be taken out with retouching, but err on no logos.
Jewelry - Is distracting and should be kept to a minimum. There are exceptions, please discuss this with me.
No Hats - Again, exceptions can be made, discuss this with me.
Glasses - Err on no glasses if you can. Contacts are preferred. Discuss this with me.
Clean Clothes - Lint rolled and unwrinkled clothes are a must.
Bright Vibrant Colors are always a good idea. I shoot color, although I can transfer to black & white. But color means color. Use the medium.
Your Colors - Discuss with your friends, family and pets what colors are right for you.
Layers are great for headshots.
ALL RULES HAVE EXCEPTIONS
Hair and Make-up
My belief is less is more. A lot of people feel you need to be glamorized in headshots, that you must look "amazing". My belief is that you need to look the best version of you. If you are not real, and it is not you in that lens, you are going to be sorely disappointed when you don’t end up not looking like you picture. Hence less is more.
With the new wave of Digital Photography and Color, having great, natural hair & make-up for both men and women is more important than ever. Many people apply make-up too strongly or don't properly care for their hair. It is also very useful to have a plan for touch-ups with your make-up or hair, or so you can more thoroughly change your look for each 'type' or wardrobe change we shoot.
I have no restrictions on whether you use a professional referral of mine, your own choosing, or you do your hair & make-up yourself. But I do not recommend neglecting this very important detail of your shoot. It can change your photos from great to amazing with just a little extra investment. Feel free to ask me more about this important part of your shoot.
The Shoot
My shoots are collaborative. We talk it out and make sure we are getting the best and most appropriate shots for you. Some times there is music to help set the mood, sometimes we'll just have a chat and see what spontaneously comes out of it. The idea is we are both having fun throughout the whole shoot. Whether we are shooting for traditional, casual or intimate, if you are not enjoying yourself it will come through on the pictures. This is a fairly 'free' shoot. Since my shoots are normally outdoors, I will search for the best possible environment for you. There is a very brief and very minimal lighting process and we just get down to business. Would you like to know more? Ask me!
After the Shoot
After the shoot, we will shake and part ways. You will hear from me within 48, and in some unusual cases 72 hours that your portraits are online for you and your friends perusal. If you require any retouching, this would be the time you'd let me know which ones you would like work done on. You select the shots that you want to have printed, format you would like them printed in and leave the rest to us. If you have special wishes such as canvas, poster or framing please let me know.
