Question 1

What if I'm not photogenic?

Accepted Answer

If you ever meet the person who admits to being highly photogenic, please send them my way because I can't wait to shoot their portrait! 
 
My job is to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and to finish the session with the best headshot portrait you have ever had of yourself. I will coach you along the way, helping to achieve a confident, approachable, but more importantly, natural expression that you are happy with. 
 
I shoot tethered into a computer so you can see each photo as soon as it is taken. Together, we will adjust posing, wardrobe, and expressions to get that perfect shot.

Question 2

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

First thing to keep in mind is that you want the main focus of your headshot portrait to be your awesome face, not your clothes. So choose items that won't be distracting, and keep it simple and comfortable. Stick to solid colors rather than big patterns, clean lines over ruffles and lace, and fitted styles instead of loose or oversized. All clothes should be clean and pressed. 
 
As far as colors, bring what you think compliments you best. Often people default to black and grey, which always look classic and clean. But don't shy away from some colored tops as well - they can help boost the approachability of a portrait. I generally suggest a darker, jewel tone because they look great on everyone. 
 
For men wearing a suit and tie, make sure everything fits as it should - Crisp collars and straight shoulders. Bring a few different ties, colors and patterns sometimes project differently on camera than in person. I will help to pick the best combination. 
 
And leave the jewelery at home, or at least keep it to a minimum. Again, it serves nothing more than a distraction from your face. 
 
Bottom line is you have to like the way you look in your clothing, so don't bring items that are out of your comfort zone or style. And bring more than we need for your session - I can go through and help you choose the best options for your headshot

Question 3

How much do you cost?

Accepted Answer

My session fee is $275, which includes the time in the studio.
Each retouched portrait image is  then $100.

Question 4

What about hair & makeup?

Accepted Answer

Think about your headshot session as if it were a job interview. Your goal is to present your best self. 
 
Skin: At minimum, I recommend everyone use a light moisturizer to avoid dry skin on camera (no sunscreens, as they can reflect poorly under studio lights). I also insist on a clean lip balm to make sure your lips aren't chapped and dry. 
 
Makeup: I highly recommend you have your makeup professionally applied, but it is not a requirement.
 
If you decide to do your own, here are a few tips:
- Keep it natural, don't let your makeup distract from your real features. 
- Liquid foundations are better than powder. 
- Lips should be glossy, not matte.
- Don't use products with sunscreens, they reflect badly under studio lights. 
- Soft eyeliner, no harsh lines
- Don't overdo the eyebrows. If you can tell they're drawn in when you look up close, you'll be able to tell in a headshot. So just keep it natural.  
 
Hair should be neat, but don't cut it the day before. Give it at least a few days to adjust to a new cut or style. Style it as you normally would. Again, you want to look natural in your headshot, not like someone else. Bring along some extra hairspray, bobby pins, and a curling iron if needed to touchup throughout the shoot. 
 
Men, if you are going to be clean shaven, make sure you do so with a fresh blade and don't forget to moisturize. If you want a beard or scruff, watch for random stray hairs and keep the edges clean and even.

Question 5

What forms of payment do you accept?

Accepted Answer

Upon booking your  portrait session, I will collect a 20% session deposit via Square invoicing.
Final payment is collected at the time of your session via cash, check, or Square invoicing.  
3% is added to credit card purchases.

Question 6

Will you shoot at my office?

Accepted Answer

Yes, generally I will do on location sessions for groups of 5 or more. Contact me to get a customized quote.

Question 7

Do you offer discounts?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I am currently offering a 10% referral discount for anyone referred by an existing client.

INGA ORNELAS

photography