5 Important Questions to Ask Your Photographer Before Getting Headshots
A little preparation goes a long way
in making sure you look your best.
Things I’d like to know
What really makes one photographer different from another when it comes to having your headshots made? How do you decide to go with one photographer over another? Knowing what I would ask to make sure I got the best photos made of myself, I made this list of five key questions to ask your photographer before your headshot appointment.
1. What Should I Wear for My Headshot Session?
Choosing the right outfit can make a big difference in how your headshots turn out. Ask your photographer for recommendations on colors and styles that work best for your industry and skin tone. I recommend solid colors which often work well, while busy patterns or overly bright colors can be distracting. Our studio headshot sessions allow for as many looks as you'd like, and I recommend bringing at least two outfit options to add variety to your final images. Don’t forget about accessories! Watches, necklace, tie clips, even glasses for some.
2. How Should I Prepare for My Session?
A little preparation goes a long way in making sure you look your best. Ask your photographer for tips on grooming, makeup, and posing. Here’s some tips I recommend for just those things. I also recommend staying hydrated and getting a good night's sleep. If you wear glasses, check for glare issues, and if you have facial hair, make sure it's neatly groomed.
3. What Background Options Do You Offer?
The background of your headshot sets the tone for your image. Some photographers offer studio setups with neutral backdrops, while others provide natural light settings or specific background options that might align with your profession. If you're in a corporate setting, a clean, simple background might be best. For creatives, an outdoor or textured background could add personality to your photos.
With experience and knowledge has also come confidence. As a photographer, I know that new trends will always emerge, but what I have truly come to love creating the most are portraits—just me and the person in front of my camera. Whether in the studio or outdoors, my main focus is always on expression.
Expressions shine the most when there is little to nothing else in the frame but you. The most simply designed images, where you and your family are the main focus, are what I live to create. These timeless portraits capture true emotion and connection, free from distractions.
White Backdrop
This is why I keep my backdrop options modern and minimal. Simple backgrounds bring you and your family to the forefront, allowing the beauty of your expressions to take center stage. Without distracting patterns or busy settings, the focus remains where it should be—on you.
Dark Backdrop
Whether you choose gray or black, a dark backdrop the effect will be dramatic and powerful.
4. How Will I Receive My Final Images?
Understanding how your final images will be delivered is important for planning. Will you receive digital files, prints, or both? How many images are included in your package? Ask about the turnaround time for receiving your edited photos and whether they will be retouched. If you need the headshots for a specific deadline, make sure to communicate that in advance.
My preference is to review your images immediately after your session for the quickest possible turnaround. Here are some more details.
5. Can I Get Different Looks?
Some photographers allow for multiple wardrobe swaps, while others focus on a single look per session. Having a variety of images can be useful for different platforms and purposes. Together we custom design your session to best suit your brand and purpose. Do outdoor images in front of your office best show your clients the environment they would be in? Would studio images clean and minimal best showcase your personality? Your options can be as varied as your ideas!
Final Thoughts
Asking these questions before your headshot session can help you feel more prepared and confident. A great photographer will guide you through the process and ensure that your headshots reflect your personality and professionalism. If you're ready to book your session, feel free to reach out—I’d love to help you capture the perfect look!
If you have a question or have an idea for your headshots, I’d love to hear it. Send me an email.
Knowing what I would ask to make sure I got the best photos made of myself, I made this list of five key questions to ask your photographer before your headshot appointment.