Every Head Shot Package includes your Studio Session, editing of the resulting photos down to the best couple of dozen or so images, professional digital retouching of your choice of one or more photos, and the retouched photos supplied to you as digital files and/or 8x10 prints. Images can be color or B/W, or both.

You have a choice of two Head Shot Packages: the Single Session will last about 90-120 minutes, and we'll take about 60-80 shots of you. The Double Session will last about 120-180 minutes, and we'll take about 120-150 shots of you. The Single Session is usually sufficient for those who need just one or two final images: the Double Session is best for those who need several different types of shots.

Rather than give you all the photos from a session, we'll take the time to edit the photos for you, weeding out shots with closed eyes and mediocre expressions. The proofs you'll see will include only the best shots in a variety of different looks, which will make your job of selecting the best head shot much easier than if you had to go through every single shot we took.

What's a Session like?

Before the shooting begins, we'll take a little time to get to know each other a little. We want to find out who you are, how you'd like to come across, and exactly how you plan to use the head shots. We may look at some examples of other head shots to clarify what head shot styles and 'looks' you like or don't like. Then we'll custom-tailor every aspect of the session, including lighting and backgrounds, to best achieve the results you want.

We'll be shooting digitally, so once we begin shooting, we'll stop now and then to look through the images we've created. You be amazed at how relaxed and in control you'll feel when you can actually see the results as we go along! We won't waste a good part of a session shooting in one outfit or lighting setup, only to find out later that it doesn't really flatter you. By viewing the images as we go along, changes in wardrobe, hair, lighting, or camera angle can be made right on the spot, and shots you don't like can be immediately deleted. The end result is that we'll end up with a lot more great shots for you to choose from!

How should I prepare for the session? What should I bring?

Make sure you arrive at the session on-time and well-rested: you won't be looking your best if you arrive tired from lack of sleep, or frazzled from rushing here late. Have your hair and/or makeup already done as you'd like it - you can do last-minute touch-ups before and during the session. If you're a musician and want images with your instrument, be sure to bring it along! As for clothes, that will vary with the type of performer you are, and how formal or casual you want to be. I usually suggest that you bring at least 3 or 4 different outfits or tops: this allows us to achieve several different looks, and will give you the option of changing if we decide a particular wardrobe item isn't working. It's also a good idea to bring along some music CDs to play while we shoot - this can help set the right mood, and help you feel more relaxed.

Do I need to use a makeup artist?

We have shot hundreds of performers without using a makeup artist or stylist, and the results we achieve have been stellar for the most part. Look through our portfolio of head shots on this website: we didn't use a stylist for any of them, although a few customers did have their hair done before they arrived. We generally feel that by paying attention to grooming details while we shoot, by concentrating on the customer's expression and personality, and by fine-tuning the final images with expert digital retouching, excessive concern with hair or makeup is usually unnecessary for a head shot. But the final decision is yours: if you wish to use a stylist, you are free to bring one to the session, or visit one before you arrive.

Can I bring along a friend or relative to the session?

You can certainly bring along someone to the session; please be aware, however, that that person will not be allowed in the studio while we are shooting. The main reason for this is that we will need to establish a certain rapport and work very closely together during the session, in order for you to produce the most confident and interesting poses. In my experience and that of many other photographers, other persons in the studio are always a distraction, no matter how "quiet" they say they will be. We all want your session to be as successful as possible, so if you need someone to accompany you to the session, please make them aware that they will need to remain outside the studio for the entire length of the session.

How are payments handled?

Payment in full for any Head Shot Package is due at the time of the session. Payment for any additional prints or digital files is due at the time you receive them. Payments can be made by cash or personal checks (sorry, we don't currently accept credit or debit cards), and of course, your satisfaction is fully guaranteed.

Do you guarantee your work?

Yes, unlike most photographers, we guarantee your complete satisfaction! If you are not satisfied with the images we create, we will either re-shoot you or refund your money. Your satisfaction with our prints or digital files is also completely guaranteed. We won't be satisfied unless you're so thrilled with your head shots that you go off telling all your friends about us! And in fact, about half of our customers during the last few years came to us because they were recommended by a friend or colleague.