Headshot Preparation
Getting your headshots taken may seem like a nerve wracking experience, especially if it's your first session. However, there really is nothing to worry about. I will make every effort to create a chilled, safe environment where you can feel comfortable enough to express your own contributions towards the process. The shoot is YOURS to capture exactly what you want and I will always be completely onboard, no matter how quirky the request!
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Every session will begin with a relaxed chat about what you are looking to portray in your new headshots, whether that be a diverse range of character types or a new hair style choice! Together, we will then explore your clothing options and match them up to our selection of backdrops, before shooting begins. I completely understand that you want to get this just right so there are a few things you can do from your end in terms of preparation...
Clothing
If you have purchased a 1.5 hour session then I would suggest bringing no more than 4-6 outfit changes to maximise the time. Do however feel free to bring options if you are unsure of what is going to work best! If you would like to capture more than, then I would definitely advise choosing our 2 hour package.
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I would also recommend checking out our gallery page to get an idea of which colours work well with which backdrops. Block colours, textures and layers work really nicely. Patterns are perfectly acceptable, but I would advise only bringing a couple of options as it does limit backdrop selection. Deep greens, blues, reds and burgundies are always winners against our backdrop selection. Black and bold whites are also a safe bet and will work with the majority.
Hair/Make Up
You are welcome to change your hair as much as you like throughout the session. A mirror and private space is available, should you wish to restyle, adjust or apply any product.
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Girls, I would advise having a think prior to the shoot about how specific hair styles can lend towards different character types. For example, pinning your hair in a tidy bun and wearing black clothing can offer a rather serious 'period drama' look. You may also curl or straighten your hair during the shoot.
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In terms of make up, it's best to arrive at the session wearing whatever you'd like to be captured in. It's completely fine to change your lipstick mid-shoot or top up foundation whenever needed - I just wouldn't want you wasting precious camera time applying a full face upon arrival! I'd recommend applying what you would typically wear for an audition (a little around the eyes, some lip gloss, mascara etc.) and would certainly advise against fake tanning beforehand, as any patchiness will be likely to show up on camera and can often prove rather difficult to edit out.
To avoid any catastrophes, I would also resist dying your hair or getting it cut the week of your shoot. There's nothing worse than being unhappy with your images simply because a last minute change hasn't quite turned out the way you'd like it.
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Boys, you are more than welcome to shave during the shoot in order to capture your more youthful side - just be wary if you are susceptible to rashes or redness. If you wish to shave, I would definitely recommend purchasing Package Two to prevent rushing.
Advisories
Sometimes things come up. Whether that be a last minute audition or a doctors appointment, I am completely happy to reschedule your session, as long as more than 48 hours notice is given. Upon booking your shoot, you will be asked to pay a £70 deposit which is then deducted from the final cost. This deposit is non refundable if you chose to rearrange within the 48 hour period or if you wish to cancel entirely. Please note that if it comes to the week of your shoot and you wish to cancel entirely without rescheduling, the deposit is also non refundable.
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Payments are accepted in either cash or via bank transfer. If you are choosing to transfer, please ensure that you are able to do so on a mobile device at the shoot. If you are unable to use mobile banking but still wish to pay via transfer then please get in touch prior to the shoot and a pre-payment can be arranged.
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Please arrive on time for your designated slot to avoid conflicting with other sessions. It's always a good idea to pre-plan your route and to avoid travelling by car or taxi - parking in London is pretty scarce and traffic can always be unpredictable. If you're going to be late on the day then please be sure to notify us as soon as you can via direct message. I will always do my best to make up for lost time but this isn't always possible, especially if other clients are scheduled after your session.
Promotional Preparation
Promotional sessions run a little differently, but are nonetheless extremely creative, experimental and exciting! Whether you've had experience doing this sort of thing before, or even if it's your first time, we will work together to capture and create a diverse selection of material that will enable your small business or social media page to flourish.
Planning
Preparation for a promotional session may vary because every approach to each business's marketing goals will be different. If you are looking to book a promotional shoot, then please do get in touch via direct message or email. Prior to arranging a slot, it's important for me to get an idea of your intended outcomes for your business or page. I am more than happy to schedule a zoom or phone call where we can not only discuss specific themes and desires but also decide upon potential locations, outfits or props.
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If you have a specific shoot location in mind, then I am able to travel (as long as it's within London's borders). Should the location be any further, then a travel fee can be arranged. Our studio space is also available for any product photography or portfolio style shots.
Extras
Your promotional experience doesn't have to end after your retouched images are returned. We work in partnership with Tom Stephens GD; an impressive graphic design company that can convert your new shots into captivating posters, banners or leaflets. Quotes for any marketing material vary based on specific requirements and can be arranged via email or direct message. If you want to contact our graphic design partner directly, or simply wish to check out their fantastic work, then please follow either of the links below:
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https://www.instagram.com/tomstephensgd/
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If you are looking to create an extensive range of marketing material, then larger packages can also be arranged. With a wealth of experience in cinematography and film editing, I am happy to plan, direct, shoot and edit short trailers or adverts for your company. This can be done as a stand alone project or as part of a combination package with your shoot. Fees are determined based on project size and workload so please be sure to contact us with any enquiries .
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PLEASE NOTE: Promotional content is created for digital use. We do not print any posters, banners or leaflets. Printing must be sourced through an outside company.