FAQs: Headshots

I totally get that there’s a lot to take in when choosing the right photographer for you. Here’s a set of common questions, I hope it helps – do just reach out if you still have more!

woman on a headshot session wearing smart casual clothing

Planning your session

Sessions are available Monday to Friday, at a time that suits you. 

I recommend a 10am start where possible, for the best natural light, but sessions can be booked throughout the day to suit your schedule.

Once you’ve booked, I’ll send you a prep guide including a set of pointers on what to wear, and makeup tips too if you wear it.

I’ll send you an information gathering form to find out more about you and your priorities.

We’ll then arrange a phone consultation to discuss your photoshoot, and what you’d like from your photos.

My goal is for you to feel fully prepped before your session, so we have a good idea of the look and feel of the photos you’re after.

I’ll give you a (short!) list of what to have to hand.

The simple answer is clothes that you feel good in.

I’ve put together lots of tips and pointers over the years based on what works particularly well, as well as some things to avoid – and will share this with you before your session.

This is all covered in the welcome guide I’ll send you.

Some key points:

Bring any branded items you might have, we’ll see if we can incorporate these into your photos.

We’ll have drawn up a loose shot list, which will include a list of any props or items that we’ll need for your photos.

Bring a spare change of clothes, just in case what you’re wearing doesn’t work well. Likewise, if you’re wearing jewellery, it’s worth bringing some options.

If you wear make up, bring your make up with you for touch-ups.

We can take your photos in your workplace, in your home, or outdoors. Other options include hiring a studio, or a staged home office. In longer sessions, we can visit a few locations to take photographs that reflect different sides of your personality and your business.

I totally understand feeling camera shy – I fall into this camp myself!

As a full-time photographer, I’ve developed a range of techniques over the years to help people who are nervous about being in front of the camera.

I’ll always make sure you feel comfortable, and I’ll never ask you to pose awkwardly – I promise you’ll never feel silly.

Remember that the most important thing is connecting with your clients – they want to get to know you, not see the most perfect version of yourself. Sharing recent photographs of yourself is a great way of doing this, so don’t stress about how you’ll look. Find out I help people relax for their headshots here.

On the day of your session

Don’t worry, I totally get that these things happen.

Just let me know as soon as possible, and we’ll find a new date for you.

Please note that if anyone in your family has a cough, fever or feels unwell, we will need to rearrange your session.

Nope! Natural light is so soft and flattering, there’s no need.

Find out why I prefer natural light here.

Headshots: If we’re taking the photos in the afternoon or evening, I’ll bring studio lighting to create a natural light effect.

After your session

I’ll send you the unedited photos the next day (sometimes the same day) for you to make your selection from. Once you’ve chosen the photos you’d like to keep, I’ll edit those and return them to you within 2 weeks.

Express editing is available if needed, for an additional fee.

Your photographs are fully edited (eg colour corrected, any cropping necessary to straighten an image slightly) and gently retouched.

I’m very happy to remove the little scratches and spots that life throws at us.

I’ll remove wrinkles on clothing or bits of fluff that may have crept in – no extra charge for making sure your photos are tip-top.

I don’t provide body contouring, as it doesn’t fit with my own values about body positivity.

If you require more detailed retouching, I can connect you with a professional retouching company which charges $10 per image.

Yes – I edit every photograph in both colour and in B&W.

No, because this isn’t my finished product – the high-resolution, edited and print-ready jpeg is.

When I take a photograph, I know how I plan that photograph to turn out – I choose the camera settings accordingly, that will allow me to get it there from the Raw file.

It’s part of the service provided that the Raw files are expertly edited before being provided as jpegs – in the same way that a restaurant provides a cooked meal and not just the ingredients!

Digitals are available two weeks after you’ve selected which images you’d like to keep.

Of course – I totally respect your privacy. If you’d prefer to keep your photographs completely private, that’s absolutely fine.

I’ll send you a form which asks about whether your photos can be shared, and where. 

Other questions

I have an MA in photography, and I’ve been a full-time photographer since 2010.

You can read more about me and my professional experience here.

I have a simple pricing structure and no hidden surprises.

I’m not the most expensive photographer out there, but I’m also not a cheap option – I offer only the highest quality products, and both my photography and customer service are award-winning.

Access the investment guide for a breakdown of all the booking options available.

Just get in touch – I’ll send you more information about my approach, my prices and what to expect.

If you feel I’m the right photographer for you we can get you booked in!

We’ll find a date and time that’s convenient for you, and I’ll send you the booking links to confirm the date.

Once you’ve booked, I’ll send you an information gathering form, and we’ll arrange a time to discuss the practicalities of your session.

personal brand photoshoot outdoors in London

Have more questions? Ask away!