Behind the Scenes: What Really Happens in a Headshot Session

If you've never had a professional headshot taken—or your last one involved a mall backdrop and emotional trauma—you're probably wondering what actually goes on during a session. Do I pose like I’m on “America’s Next Top Consultant”? Do I have to know my angles? Will there be snacks?

Relax. You’re in good hands. Here’s what really happens during a headshot session with me—from the moment you walk in to the moment you walk out looking like a CEO, a leading actor, or someone who definitely has their life together.

Still deciding what style fits you best? Read this guide to my lighting setup—where I break down how I use large soft studio lighting and (when LA behaves) natural window fill.

First, We Talk It Out

No one gets plopped in front of a camera without a plan. We’ll chat about your goals, your industry, your vibe. Need a new LinkedIn photo that screams “promotion-ready”? Want to rebrand your actor profiles with three distinct looks? I’ll help you figure it out before we touch a camera.

You can bring outfit options (I’ll help narrow them down), and if you’re not sure what to wear, don’t worry—I'll guide you so you don’t accidentally show up in a turtleneck made of regret.

The Lighting Is Flattering. Always.

I shoot in a controlled studio environment using large, soft, diffused lighting. That means even, flattering light on your face—no harsh shadows or weird glare. When the timing is right, natural daylight from my two large south-facing windows adds a gentle, ambient fill—but you’ll look amazing regardless of what the sky is doing.

My setup is dialed in for headshots that look clean, confident, and real. No guesswork. No weird back-alley shadows. Just you, lit like the most trustworthy person in the room.

We Shoot. We Laugh. We Tweak.

Once we start shooting, I’ll guide you through every pose, expression, and tiny chin adjustment. I’m watching for flattering angles, natural posture, and that spark of confidence that lives somewhere between “This is weird” and “Damn, I look good.”

We’ll pause to review some shots, adjust as needed, and keep going until we’ve got plenty of solid options. It’s collaborative, easy, and—yes—even fun. You’ll forget the camera’s even there (except the part where I talk to it like it’s a person, because I do that sometimes).

Then You Glow (And Choose)

After the session, I’ll send you a proof gallery where you can review your images. They’ll already look fantastic—thanks to some natural post-processing magic I do before delivery—so you’ll be able to download them for both web and print use right away.

Want a little extra polish? You’ve got options. If you’d like any images retouched, I work with a professional retoucher who turns things around in a few days for an additional fee. No pressure—just available if you want that extra sprinkle of perfection.

Either way, you’ll walk away with headshots that feel like you—confident, natural, and ready for anything from castings to boardrooms.

Ready to see what a stress-free, fully guided headshot session looks like?
Book your shoot today—and walk away with headshots that don’t just look good… they look like you at your best. 🎯

Next up: how to prep your skin & hair before your session—because confidence starts before the camera clicks.