Headshots

One of the most important things to any successful photo shoot is preparation. When doing headshots you should contact your agent or manager prior to the shoot because they will most likely have specific ideas on how they want to market you. Your agent or manager may see you differently than you see yourself or they may see a trend and would like to take advantage of it. Some agencies have strict “do’s and don’ts” about the clothing you wear for your headshots. For instance, some agencies like fun designs or logos on shirts while other agencies do not like them at all. Also the agency may like or want a certain style in the photography. Thus, it is very important to speak with your agent or manager prior to the shoot.

If you do not have an agent or manager, it is better to avoid distracting patterns, designs or logos in your wardrobe for the shoot. Most of the shots will be focused on your upper torso, so you don't have to worry about putting together an entire outfit.

You want colors that will compliment your coloring or skin tones. Not all colors photograph the same nor do all colors compliment your skin in a photograph. You should consider what colors compliment eyes or hair or skin tones. If you do not know what colors look good on you, consider hiring a professional stylist or colorist to walk you through your color palette.

If hiring a stylist is not an option, we can provide wardrobe consultations prior to your photo shoot. Generally speaking, you want clothing for your headshots that utilize colors that compliment your skin tone. Avoid pastel colors in combination with clothes that have an abundance of white, as this combination tends to look washed out in the photograph. If possible use clothing that has texture, this can help add more dimension to your photograph. A well styled photo shoot will help you stand out from the crowd and get you in the front door.

On the day of the shoot, please bring more clothes than you think you will wear as this will increase our options as we shoot in front of different backgrounds. If you are not certain about bringing a particular item of clothing, bring it. Your clothes need to be clean (i.e. no stains) and wrinkle free.

When it comes to grooming, do not wait until last minute to do things like haircuts, coloring, waxing, tanning sessions, etc. Please give your body at least four or five days prior to the shoot to “recover” from such grooming activities. Everybody heals at different rates and you want to be photographed at your best, not while your body is still healing.

During the course of the shoot you can expect different looks, locations, lighting techniques and a relaxed atmosphere to help ensure we capture you in the best possible light. Mr. Struve will direct and coach you through the shoot to help achieve the best possible results.

It may sound obvious, but you can expect technical excellence in the photographs. The photographs will be well composed, exposed correctly, properly color balanced, and in focus. We are consistently surprised by how many of our new clients’ existing portfolios lack technical expertise.

Another key element to a successful photo shoot is teamwork. Everyone involved in a shoot has a pivotal role to play. We work with our clients, agents or managers, make-up artists, stylists and photo assistants to ensure a successful photo shoot. Mr. Struve will be personally involved in every detail of the shoot.

While we will work hard to bring out your most marketable qualities, we cannot do it alone. We need your help. You can help us by arriving on time (if not a little bit early). You will be less stressed, more relaxed and able to focus better on the task at hand. Be prepared by doing your homework prior to the shoot. This includes the items mentioned above. Please get as much sleep as possible at least four or five nights in a row prior to the shoot, preferably at least 8 hours per night. Also, please drink a ½ gallon (64 oz) of water or more per day at least four or five days prior to the shoot. By doing this, you will give yourself the greatest chance of looking your best for the shoot. Please note that these suggestions work for most any photo shoot you do.

During the shoot, the two most important things to remember are to relax and have fun!