Headshot Prep
Hello!
My name is Courtney, and I want to first and foremost thank you for the opportunity to be your photographer.
Over the years, I have found that I have a particular love for working one on one and creating images and art with you!
A headshot is a reflection of you, and it’s my job to ensure I represent you in this photo.
People who come in front of my camera are normal, everyday people, many of whom don’t know what to do in front of the camera. You may feel unsure. I will direct you! I will also show you the back of the camera as we create the photo that you are happy with.
On your session day, I want you to be comfortable & relaxed. Not sure what to wear or how to prepare? I'm here to help.
What to Wear
-Adults, these are for the FYS website, please dress accordingly
-Sleeve length for adults: recommend 3/4 or full length
- Stick to solid colors or subtle patterns—avoid busy prints or logos.
- Wear something that makes you feel confident and comfortable
-Well-fitted clothes: a well fitted shirt or a suit jacket help your figure
-Watch the neckline: Guys- V-neck undershirts (NOT crew)
-Make sure clothes are wrinkle-free (or at least halfway there)
-Consider carrying your clothes and waiting to change til just before your session. Sincerely, sooooo many times I'm asked what I can photoshop because lunch, perfume, coffee, etc was spilled!
-Colors matter and give an impression. Choose colors that reflect who you are and what you want to say about yourself. Unsure? Feel free to bring along a few options, I'm happy to help!
Students on Concert Day:
Concert attire!
Include your instrument!
Grooming & Makeup
- Keep makeup natural and minimal—enhance, don’t hide.
- Avoid shimmery or oily products
- Men should trim facial hair neatly or shave
-Double check to trim/eliminate crazy nose hairs or other stray hairs
-Chapstick- use day before and morning of- no chapped lips!
Hair
- If you want a fresh cut or trim, do it ~7 days before, and don't dramatically change your hairstyle.
- If you think you need it, bring a brush, hair product, or any tools needed for quick touch-ups.
-In general, ladies with long hair, wearing hair down is ideal. That said, if you wear your hair up every day and that's how others see you, you'll probably want it up, true to you!
Accessories
-Details can matter! Consider your necklace, earrings, tie, tie bar, scarf, and/or pin
Rest & Hydration
- Drink plenty of water the day before
- Get a good night’s sleep
Expressions & Posing
- It's okay to practicing smiling in the mirror ahead of time to find your best natural expression.
-Relax- I'll guide you, and we will work together to get a great pic for you!
Retouching, what to expect:
I soften wrinkles, remove temporary blemishes, address hair flyaways, reduce glare on glasses.
Cut yourself shaving, or woke up with a zit? No problem, these are some of the easiest fixes!
If you have a chipped tooth, that can be fixed, too! Please say something. I want you smile bright knowing this will be fixed for you!
That said, if you have an insecurity and/or a retouching request, I'd love for you to say something/ask.
Body shape, hair color:
If you have some "glitter" in your hair, you've earned it! That said, sometimes this can be adjusted. Please inquire.
Body shape- I do not alter body shape unless you specifically request.
Clothing- Clothing is tricky to change/alter, it is really best this is taken care of in camera. We will take the time to ensure your clothes and hair is adjusted just right! Remember to do your part and choose the right pieces of clothing that look great, iron/steam, and hang so they are ready! That said, occasionally a request can be fulfilled.
Quick Recap
- Hang up your clean outfit the night before!
- When you get ready, consider bringing your outfit with you and changing into your outfit before photos.
- Drink water, use chapstick!
- Feel free to share any insecurities/retouching requests, I want you to appreciate your photo(s)
- Bring your instrument
What's Next
After picture day, expect to see an email 1-2 weeks with a link to your photo(s). At that time you'll have an opportunity to order prints/digitals.