Here is what you need to get the most out of your session.
1. Zoom It In.
Each session starts with a consultation call. It takes 20-30 minutes but saves much more time during the session, allowing us to set a strategy, share ideas, and start working toward results from the very first minute.
Show me your clothing options so we can make a preliminary selection, and feel free to ask any questions — even the "silly" ones. You don’t need to know all the details about photography; consultations like this help us address any issues upfront and build a comfortable connection, which is essential for a successful headshot session.
2. Take care of your hair.
A headshot session is the perfect excuse to visit your hairdresser or barber a few days beforehand — or even on the same day, if you need a special touch. Don’t rely on retouching, though it will be used subtly afterward — the best enhancements are the ones made before the shoot, not after.
3. Make it up.
Men can skip this one and go straight to the next paragraph. Ladies, we need to talk :) It’s always a good idea to take care of your makeup, along with your hair. There are three common options: you can do it yourself before the session (a well-lit makeup table is available in the studio), bring your own makeup artist, or hire one of the professionals I work with regularly. The last option ensures the best results, with makeup that looks natural and perfectly suited for the photo session. We usually discuss those options on a Zoom call before the session.
4. Pack your clothes.
For your headshot session, I suggest bringing as many options as you can carry. I appreciate clients who come prepared, like they’re heading to the airport — with a wheeled suitcase full of clothing, ready for any climate! Of course, we’ll go over the essentials beforehand to keep your luggage manageable, and you don’t need to worry about anything below the waist — unless you’d like to add some half-body shots to your portfolio.
Jewelry is often considered distracting unless it’s a key part of your image or the message you want to convey. If you wear glasses, bring all the pairs you have so we can try them out and see what works best.
5. Rest well.
Try to get a good night’s sleep before the session. I know in today’s world it feels like a luxury, but it’s essential. In a headshot, all the attention is on your expression, and we want it to be as perfect as possible.
Also, choose the time of day when you feel most energetic — if you’re a morning person, we’ll schedule it for the morning; if you’re a night owl, then late afternoon is ideal! Finally, make sure you’re not in a rush immediately after the shoot. If you are, just let me know in advance so I can structure the session accordingly. Even if we have just 15 minutes, we’ll make the most of it!
And that’s it! Five simple steps to guarantee stunning results from your very first session. You don’t even need to remember them — after our Zoom call, I’ll send you a Prep Guide with all the essential details. And if you have any questions, feel free to email me at slava@slavatimoshenko.com.