What Is a Headshot Session with S72 Like?

Headshot of a woman wearing a tank top in a San Francisco studio.

A Relaxed Experience to Capture Headshots That Make You Stand OUt

Getting a professional headshot might feel intimidating, especially if you’re not used to being in front of the camera. But at S72, I work to make the entire process is as comfortable and easy as possible. My goal is to create high-quality, custom headshots that reflect your unique personality and brand. In this article, I’ll walk you through what a typical session looks like so you know exactly what to expect.

The Start of Your Session: Determining The Look

When you arrive at the studio, we’ll start with a conversation about your goals for the headshot. Are you updating your LinkedIn profile, looking for a new job, creating marketing materials for your business, or showcasing yourself as a creative professional? Understanding the purpose behind the headshot helps us decide on the right look and feel. We’ll also talk about your clothing choices and how they align with the message you want to convey.

This initial conversation helps determine the backdrop, lighting, and style we’ll use. The goal is to ensure the photos align with your personality and brand. Everything from the color palette to the mood of the image will be customized to fit your needs.

Preparing to Get in Front of the Camera

Once we’ve decided on the look, I’ll set up the lighting, backdrop, and equipment while you make any final preparations. You’ll have time to check yourself in the mirror, touch up your hair or makeup, and get into the chosen outfit. This is also a chance for you to relax and settle in. I understand that being photographed can feel stressful, so I create a laid-back atmosphere in the studio. Music plays in the background, and the open, spacious studio ensures you won’t feel cramped or uncomfortable.

The goal is to make sure you feel at ease before we even take the first shot. A relaxed subject always photographs better, and I take the time to create an environment where you feel comfortable and confident.

Guided Posing and Direction Throughout the Shoot

Headshot of a woman in a grey sleeveless shirt against a grey backdrop in a San Francisco studio

Once we’re ready to begin, I’ll guide you through everything. You don’t need to worry about how to pose, where to stand, or what expressions to make. Some people feel awkward in front of the camera, and that’s completely normal. I’ll provide direction throughout the session to help you look your best, whether we’re working on a warm, approachable smile or a more serious, professional expression.

During the shoot, we’ll try a variety of positions and facial expressions. This ensures we capture a range of looks so you’ll have options to choose from later. I’ll also make adjustments to the lighting as needed to match the mood we’re aiming for. The goal is to create a series of images that not only look great but also feel authentic to who you are.

Adding Variety to Your Headshots

One way I ensure you have a wide selection of images is by using different lenses throughout the shoot. Each lens creates a unique look, adding depth and variety to your final photos. In addition to switching up the lenses, I’ll also photograph you against multiple backdrops, if time allows. Whether you need something neutral and professional or bold and creative, you’ll have plenty of options.

This variety is essential because it allows your headshot to serve multiple purposes. You might want a polished, corporate look for your LinkedIn profile, but a more relaxed, creative image for social media or a website. By photographing you in different ways, we ensure that your final images are versatile enough to meet all your needs.

Reviewing the Images Together

After we’ve taken a variety of shots, we’ll sit down and review the images together on a large monitor. This part of the session is all about making sure you see the range of options we’ve captured. You’ll get a first look at the images and can ask any questions or share your thoughts.

There’s no pressure to make a final decision on the spot. I’ll send you a link to a private gallery after the session, so you can take your time reviewing the photos and selecting your favorites. This gives you the freedom to go through the images at your own pace, ensuring you choose the ones that best represent your brand and personality.

Additional Shots and Wrapping Up the Session

If there’s still time after the initial shoot, we can take a few more photos if you feel inspired to try something new. Maybe you want to experiment with a different expression or change up your outfit—whatever the case, I’m happy to keep shooting if it helps you get exactly what you need.

Once you’ve seen a good selection of images and feel confident that we’ve captured the right look, the session will wrap up. The goal is to leave you with a collection of high-quality headshots that fit your brand and professional goals perfectly.

After the Session

The process doesn’t end when the last photo is taken—there’s still more to come to ensure you receive the perfect final images. Shortly after the session, usually within an hour or so, I’ll send you a link to your private gallery. This gallery contains all the images from our shoot, giving you the opportunity to review them at your own pace. The email will also include clear instructions on how to make your selects.

When you’re ready to make your choices, you’ll let me know which images you’d like retouched. If you have specific preferences or notes for retouching—whether it’s adjusting the background, fine-tuning skin tones, or enhancing certain features—you’ll be able to share them with me. The goal is to make sure the final images look exactly how you want them.

Once I receive your selections, I’ll begin the retouching process. Every image is given individual attention to ensure it looks its absolute best. My retouching approach is customized to each image, enhancing your features while keeping the final result natural.

When the retouching is complete, I’ll send you a link to a new gallery where you can download your final, high resolution images. At this point, you’ll have everything you need to start using your new headshots wherever they’ll make the biggest impact—whether it’s on LinkedIn, your website, or marketing materials.

Why Choose S72 for Your Headshot?

The value of a quality headshot goes beyond just looking good—it’s about making a lasting impression. A great headshot reflects your personality and brand, helping you connect with clients, employers, and colleagues. Many photographers take the same approach with every client, using identical lighting setups and poses. But at S72, I customize each session to fit your individual style, providing variety and ensuring that your headshot feels unique to you.

Investing in a professional headshot is worth it. A high-quality image can open doors and build trust, and it’s a crucial part of your personal brand. I take pride in delivering headshots that are not only technically excellent but also creative and aligned with your vision and goals.

Book Your Session Today

If you’re ready to capture a headshot that reflects who you are and fits your personal or professional brand, contact me today to book a session. At S72, I make the process simple, relaxed, and enjoyable. From the initial consultation to the final review of images, I’ll work with you every step of the way to ensure you walk away with headshots you love.

Let’s create a headshot that stands out, makes a lasting impression, and helps you reach your goals. Contact me now to schedule your session and get started!

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