All The FAQs Answered
I hate being in front of a camera. How do I get over that?
We've found that the biggest reason people hate being in front of the camera, is because they don't know what the images look like and they don't have an active part in deciding what looks good and doesn't. Our approach puts you in the driver's seat and it's an active collaboration between you and the photographer. We work together to find the elements in the image you like, and identify the elements in an image you don't like so we can adjust what we need to in order to get an image you're happy to share and feel confident with.
How often should I update my headshot?
That is entirely up to you. If you hate being in front of the camera, then you may wait as long as you can (or should) before your next session.
A general rule of thumb is if you have a significant change in your appearance, then it's time. But some people like to update their shot every year or sometimes sooner.
Will you do some digital plastic surgery on my images?
We believe that you should look like you. We will not significantly alter your appearance. What we will do is light some wrinkles, take care of blemishes, give the teeth a little polish if needed, and take care of stray hairs. You'll still look like you, which is the purpose of a professional headshot.
What should I wear?
Wear what's appropriate and you feel good and confident in. And make sure a little bit of "you" comes through if you have a unique fashion sense. If you like big and bold patterns and colors, go for it. And if you're a strictly business attire person, wear that. The key is to look at yourself in the mirror before your headshot and say, "Damn, I look pretty good."
Can I wear glasses?
If you wear glasses all the time and it's part of your everyday look, then definitely wear them. If you wear them because you have to, but don't want to wear them during your headshot, take them off.
Are all headshots done in the studio?
A large majority of the headshot we do are in our Coeur d'Alene studio (or on location for company-wide headshots with a studio setup). This is because it offers the most control of the environment. No worrying about Mother Nature kicking up some wind that blows your hair everywhere. We can go on location, but we'll talk about if it fits your brand to do that.
How do I choose the best images and how many do I need?
As we are capturing your headshot images, we'll review them after every series of shots to mark the ones we want to review at the end, and see if we're on the right track.
Once the session is complete, we'll review the images you said "yes" and "maybe" to and further narrow them down to only the "yes" images. From there, you determine if you need one, or if there are different looks that you can use for other platforms and media. The average headshot client selects fiveimages from their session.
Do I need professional hair and makeup done?
Some people feel prepared if they bring on a professional hair stylist and makeup artists before their session. If you're not someone who wears a lot of makeup, or goes to the stylist all the time, it might feel like too much to you.
You want to be comfortable in your appearance as that comfortability goes a long way during a headshot session. If you don't want to go that route, then go the route you're most comfortable with.
What's the difference between headshot sessions and branding sessions?
Headshot sessions provide images for identification and provide a little bit of personality and character.
Branding sessions offer you a variety of images that not only provide a headshot, but offer:
- Options of portraits (in the studio and outside)
- Client interactions
- Products
- Services
- Employees
- And visuals of your facilities
Think of branding sessions as a way to build up your image library for all your advertising needs (website, social media, direct-mail campaigns, print advertising, etc.).