Chicago Headshot Photographer

Headshot Session FAQs

How to dress for success

When it comes to wardrobe, options are your best friend. We all know what colors we look best in—start there. Then eliminate anything too shiny or with bold prints. Simple is better. Think in terms of layers. Blazers, coats, cardigans, sweaters, and button-downs can be mixed with other pieces to create variety. A well-fitting jacket over a simple top gives you two looks instantly. Some of my go-tos include anything denim, a black turtleneck, solid-color knits, crisp button-downs, tailored blazers, and simple dresses or blouses without busy patterns. Fit matters more than fashion. That blazer you love but never wear because the shoulders are weird? Leave it at home. If it doesn't fit well, it won't photograph well. The studio has a steamer and a private dressing room, so don't stress about wrinkles. And honestly? Text me photos of what you're thinking. I'm happy to give feedback before you pack or even while you're shopping. This is a collaboration, not a test.

Should I wear jewelry in my headshot?

Jewelry should be kept to a minimum. That means grab the studs instead of the hoops or anything that might dangle and creep into your hair or draw attention away from your face. The best necklace for a headshot is no necklace at all. If you're going to opt for a necklace, choose one that doesn't fall to a point in the middle. Something with more structure (think pearls) will work better than a traditional chain, but you also don't want anything too big and chunky.

Do you offer a make-up artist?

I'm picky about makeup and it's been my experience that most makeup artists create more problems than they solve. I think most people are best served doing their own makeup. That means no false eyelashes, bold lip colors, or excessive contouring. Bring your makeup with you and you can touch it up as we go and see how it looks on the computer screen. Photoshop is a much better solution for people looking for that flawless skin effect.

Should I wear a necktie in my headshot

If you wear a tie everyday, then yes you should probably be wearing a tie in your headshot. Everyone else... you can probably leave the tie at home. If you know you want more than one shot, then a necktie can be a nice accessory when tied well, but I probably wouldn't want it as my only headshot. If you're going to wear a tie, it's always a good idea to choose something subtle without a distracting pattern. It's also a great idea to bring a backup.

Do you do greenscreen headshots?

Greenscreen background replacements are rarely the best solution to the problem. People understand the "greenscreen" concept just enough to be dangerous. This type of background replacement rarely looks convincing in a finished product for a variety of reasons that I'm not going to bore you with. If this is something that you really need, call me first and let's try and find a better solution.

Can we do the session at my office?

I love getting out of the studio and photographing people in their homes or offices, but there's quite a bit more involved. If you'd like to be photographed outside of the studio, there's a $500 additional fee. Shoot me a text or an email immediately after you schedule your session and we'll work out the details.

Do you offer outdoor Headshots?

Outdoor headshots are generally just a bad idea. Most outdoor headshots suffer from bad lighting, disheveled hair, and distracting background elements. Weather permitting, I don't mind stepping outside for a few minutes and grabbing some shots, but the lions share of what we create will be done in studio. Sessions will not be rescheduled for reasons relating to weather.

Can you match company guidelines?

Whether your company has a style guide that needs to be followed, or you saw something in a magazine or online that you really liked, chances are that I'll be able to recreate it. Some of my favorite shoots of all time started with a Pinterest board full of ideas. Feel free to shoot me a text or send me an email with any ideas you might want use as inspiration.

Is retouching included?

Most clients want to look younger, thinner, and more attractive. Who wouldn't right? When I'm retouching, I want the edits to look like you on your best day. That means that I'm going to tame those fly-away hairs, lighten up those wrinkles and even out your skin. The last step is smoothing any bumps or gaps in the clothing. When requested, I will take all of that one step further at no additional charge. (All purchased images are retouched)

Do you offer proofing galleries?

Some people prefer to get input from others before making their image selections. I get it. I don't think it's a good idea, but I get it. This is the photographic equivalent of too many cooks in the kitchen and I'm here to help you narrow down your options. If you insist on getting outside help you're welcome to do the image buyout and decide later.

What if I need to reschedule?

Life happens, things come up, and updating your headshot isn't usually a life or death situation. I would rather reschedule your session than have you come in preoccupied or in a rush to leave. I have a 72 hour rescheduling policy which means as long as you reschedule your session with three days notice, there is no penalty or cost to you. If you need to reschedule at the last minute (less than 72 hours notice) there's a $100 rescheduling fee.

Do you offer an image buyout?

It's my job to make you look awesome and more often than not we end up getting a lot of variety. It's not uncommon for people to want all of the images and at $200/each, that gets expensive quickly. If you're one of those people that wants to have all of the images, I have an image buyout option for a flat fee of $1500.