Getting ready for your session...

Get some good rest in the days on the run up to the shoot, you’ll feel better and look better and be more present and responsive making everything more enjoyable.

 Have a good think about what tops you’re going to bring, keep them simple, have a look at other headshots you like and see what works best: usually plain, block colours, no distracting patterns, and necklines with a defined structure, so that the face is given prominence. Prepare your clothes in advance of the day, washed and ironed and packed so you can transport them easily.

For performers, bring a choice of at least 3 tops even if your session is short, it's always good to have options. For business consider bringing a choice of ties or accessories, and always ask whoever is organising the shoot if they have a preferred colour for shirts, blouses, jackets, etc.

 Whether you're a performer or in business, a garment can be used to define character. How do you wish to be perceived? As well as a neutral look, consider bringing something evocative of your desired image, or of roles you feel suited to.

If you wear make-up keep things relatively natural and bring it along on the day for touch-ups. There’s no need to cover up spots or blemishes, that can be done easily with retouching. Heavy make-up usually makes things more difficult to process in post-production to make skin look good and natural.

Think about how you want your hair to look, simple styles work best and are easiest to reset if needs be. If you do want to go for something more complex, practice how it’s done a few times. Don’t get your hair cut the day before, as it may not behave like you’re used to, a few days before should be fine as it will have had time to settle. Same goes for washing your hair if it gets frizzy or flat after it’s washed.

For performers, if you have an agent ask them what sort of shots they think would work for you, if they can send examples all the better. They might also have suggestions for extra looks or character types that could fill out your current portfolio. Pinterest can be your friend in this arena.

 Remember, it’s your session, time dedicated to creating images that tell the story you want to tell in single frames. The more thought you give to that fact, and of what you want to say with those photos, the more likely it is you will bring that energy for us to work with in the studio, and through the lens.