If you’re in need of new headshots but have no idea where to start, then the initial step is finding the right headshot photographer. You may be able to acquire all the advice on style and pose in this world, but it can all go wrong depending on the wrong portrait photographer. A good headshot photographer can capture your essence in a photo. Also, the photographer should be able to understand your style, and what image or role you’re going for.
Questions To Ask A Headshot Photographer Before Hiring One
Once you’ve found the right photographer for professional headshots, either from a friend’s recommendation, or an online testimony, there are a few questions to ask the potential photographer before hiring him. There is really no “right” answer, but the important thing to measure is the photographer’s practices and strategy. Their responses to your queries will help you see if the photographer meets your less obvious needs in a headshot. The following are five questions to ask the potential headshot photographer.
- How many shots per session?
The first question to ask the potential photographer is how many shots will be taken per session. Also, ask them if it involves film or digital. Moreover, here are follow-up questions regarding shots:
- How many pictures of those shots will you eventually consider?
- Will the photos need editing or retouching?
- How will you receive the photos? Via CD, email, prints, or flash drive?
- After the session, how long will it take for the images to be ready for release or viewing?
- How should I look?
Some headshot photographers include makeup and hair treatment in their session rate. Will your photographer cover the cost for your hair and makeup? Also, what you wear in the photo session will matter. Will your photographer help you choose your outfit or costume?
The right photographer takes pride in their photos. Thus, they’ll make sure you look good in your images. However, some photographers don’t mind what their subject is wearing or what they look like, as long as they get paid. Beware of those kind of photographers. You’ll want someone that has a passion for photography to ensure you’ll have good images.
- Where will the location be?
What you’re wearing will also depend on where the shoot is going to take place. Dress accordingly if your headshot session takes place in a park, and make sure your makeup works well with the natural light.
Likewise, if the photographer has their own studio, ask them how the unnatural lighting can affect your makeup. Will the photoshoot include walking? Then maybe you should bring your heels or appropriate shoes with you.
- What’s the plan?
Ask the headshot photographer if they have a portfolio to give you an idea of his style. Meanwhile, it won’t hurt to request for a blueprint of how they will establish your photogenic face.
- Will you capture any specific qualities I have?
- Based on your experience, how should my poses and facial expressions vary?
- What role are you arranging for my photo’s success?
- Can we have another session?
Ask the photographer what the mode of payment will be. Never hesitate to ask this question. For instance, if the photographer says you have to pay before the session, what happens if you don’t like the images and would want to have a reshoot?
It may be daunting to expect the worst, but it’s also wise to check their policy regarding reshoots. You don’t want to pay again for another session especially if it happens because you were dissatisfied with the first session. If you don’t like it, speak up and do something about it.
Conclusion
These questions will help you break through and acquire that headshot image you always wanted. You can check out professional headshots chicago to see if they can be the right headshot photographer for you. The right photographer can deliver headshots, environmental portraits, and personal branding in their photography.
Michael Schacht is a portrait photographer and photography educator based in Chicago Illinois. As owner/operator of 312 Elements professional headshots chicago located in Chicago’s West Loop neighborhood, Michael overseas the day to day operations and has had the opportunity to photograph thousands of corporate professionals over the last decade. Through his direction, attention to detail, and people skills, he’s helped these clients to craft a narrative around their personal brand. It’s his belief that the headshot is the modern dad business card and that a better headshot is essential for a better career. Michael, his wife Meghan and his two daughters reside in Tinley Park Illinois where he is a community leader and active participant in the local business sector. Michael studied business at Ball State university and photography with world renown headshot photographer, Peter Hurley. It was Hurley that trained Michael in the art of human expression. Michael is now a Headshot Crew certified Mentor and active member of the Headshot Crew community where he was named one of the top 20 headshot photographers in the world.
