How Much Do Professional Headshots Cost?

Headshot NYC

Have you ever looked up something like “best headshots photography NYC pricing”, and been utterly confused by the results? That’s actually quite common. A lack of transparency seems to be the reason for this, but there are many other factors that are responsible as well. One thing to note: pricing can drastically differ from photographer to photographer. In this article, we will discuss the pricing of headshot photography, and why it differs between different photographers.

Why Does the Pricing for Headshot Photography Vary?

If you look up something like ‘best headshot photographers NYC’, you’ll be surprised to see the variety of services being offered in the area alone. These services vary in terms of quality, and thus prices. But other than the obvious reason that is the quality of headshots, what contributes to this difference in pricing of headshots?

The reputation of the photographer:

if you’re looking for the best headshot photographer in NYC, their prices will reflect their reputation as a photographer. Someone with a huge number of 5-star reviews will charge you more for their services than, for example, a newly established photographer.
The skillset of the photographer:

a photographer who’s skilled in multiple kinds of photography will probably charge you more. This is because of the one-stop-shop convenience they provide you with. If you need a headshot one day, and a portrait the other, you can go to them for all your photography needs.
The workflow of the photographer:

if it’s someone who can capture, edit and process your headshot for you in no time, you may need to pay them more. In contrast, photographers who take their time don’t charge you too heavily.
The beliefs of the photographer:

some photographers don’t charge high prices not because the quality of their work is unreliable, but because they simply do not wish to. Yes, the objectives of photographers vary, and so do their prices. Photographers build their brands around these beliefs, and if a photographer gives you a sense of luxury, it reflects their beliefs for their business.

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What is the Average Price Range for Headshot Photography?

To sum up the pricing range, it starts from around $50 and goes up to multiple thousands of dollars. There are some headshot photography sessions that go beyond the $5000 mark, but those are obviously the very best photographers in the business.

The high-end headshot photographers

For those new to headshot photography, it’s understandable if you wonder why anyone would pay more than $1000 for a headshot photography session. Well, it all comes down to the demand and supply of such high-end photographers. These are the best in the game, and people are more than willing to splurge on their services.

The reputation such photographers hold, as well their reviews and networking give them the competitive edge needed to charge premium prices. So if you’re looking for the very best headshot photography, be ready to stretch your budget a little.

The mid-range headshot photographers

The mid-range photographers charge you less than their high-end counterparts, but can still seem a tad expensive. Their prices start from around $300 and go up to $1000. For a good headshot session that doesn’t burn holes through your pocket, the mid-range photographers can be your best bet.

If you have a number of options before you in the mid-range headshot photography market, here are some of the things you should consider before picking one:

Their style:

your headshot photographer’s work should speak to you. If you’re looking for solemn, dark photos, then choosing a photographer with a bright and bubbly style would obviously be the wrong thing to do. Therefore, you should first know your own preferences and then look for a photographer who matches them in terms of style.

Skill level:

not every photographer in the mid-range will have the same skill set, which is why the prices between them also vary. If you’re looking for top-quality headshots, you should go for the more expensive options. You could again look at past work to get an idea about the quality of any given photographer’s headshot quality. Are the poses off? Do the backgrounds look tacky? If that’s the case, you should steer clear of such photographers.

Retouching:

retouching is the all-important step of headshot photography because it can make or break a headshot. Some clients avoid retouching, others want entire features altered in a headshot. However, the quality of retouching can vary wildly between different headshot photographers. Some can achieve that natural look while altering the images, while others struggle in that department. So your decision should only be made once you’ve had a look at both non-retouched and retouched versions of a photographer’s past work.

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The budget headshot photographers

These are the headshot photographers who can capture a decent headshot for around $50-$300. For those new to photography, choosing a budget headshot photographer seems like a great idea. But to others who have experience with headshot photography, it’s not all clear why someone would charge such low prices for their services. There are a number of answers to that question:

They are new with minimal experience
The photographer does not own a formal studio
The photographer wants to attract the maximum number of clients
They do not understand business practices

While you could get lucky, budget headshot photography is slightly risky. Because such photographers usually have little experience, they can fail to deliver the quality of pictures you’re looking for. Several retakes may also be needed, so the process with budget photographers may not be the quickest. Plus, if you just do not receive the quality you require, despite multiple retakes, that could mean a total waste of your time and resources.

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Conclusion

Headshot photography can be both expensive and cheap depending on the photographer you approach. However, there are many things to consider, such as experience and reputation, in order to get the most out of your photograph and the money you spend. We hope this article cleared up all your pricing-related doubts relating to the best headshots photographers in NYC.

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What Colors to Wear for Your Skin Tone

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General Guidelines

There are general guidelines we can all follow when it comes to what to wear and how to look on a photo shoot. You most likely want to appear polished and professional. For that, it’s a good idea to keep things simple in terms of clothing and accessories. Patterns should be minimal and not too distracting, and colors shouldn’t be too loud that they overwhelm. Clothing should be fitted, have clean silhouettes, and be wrinkle-free. In general, you want the focus to be on you and not your clothes.

Of course there are exceptions to every rule. If you’re a creative type or your identity revolves around being unique, then by all means, be you and dress the part! At the end of the day, you want your photos to capture your authentic self. And being comfortable with what you wear is the first step to being comfortable in front of the camera.

How To Determine Your Skin Tone

Having said that, we all have unique physical traits that distinguish us from one another. For example, hair color, eye color, and skin tone can all guide us and help determine what looks best on us. If you’re not sure where to start, a good place is to first figure out if you are warm, cool, or neutral toned. A fairly easy way to tell is to check the vein color on the inside of your wrist. If the vein color looks blue or purple you are likely cool toned. If the vein color is more green or greenish-blue, you are likely warm toned. And if you have a mixture of the two, you are likely neutral toned.

Another way to determine skin tone is to try on gold and silver jewelry. Pay attention to which makes your skin “pop” more. If gold looks better on you, you are warm toned. If it’s silver, then you lean toward cool toned. And if both look good on you, then you are likely neutral toned.

Cooler tones usually have fair skin to very dark skin (with red, pink, and bluish undertones), light blonde hair to blue-black hair, very light or very dark eyes, and can burn easily in the sun or have rich pigmented skin. Warmer tones usually have darker or tan skin (with yellow, peach, or golden undertones), darker hair, brown eyes, and tan easily in the sun. Neutral tones usually have olive skin or a mix of warm and cool tones, warm brown or ashy blonde hair, hazel or brown eyes, and tend to burn and then tan in the sun.

What Colors Suit You Best

Once you are clear on your skin tone you’re free to experiment with clothing, hair, and makeup that suits you best.

If you are cool toned, your skin has red, pink, or blue in it. This pairs well with jewel toned colors, like rich blues, greens, or magentas/purples. In terms of makeup, you should look for colors with pink or blue undertones.

If you are warm toned your skin is more yellow, golden, or olive based. This pairs well with earth tones. Think oranges, reds, olives, and golden colors. For makeup you should choose colors with yellow undertones.

If you are neutral toned, you likely have a mixture of warm and cool tones. In this case—you’re lucky! You have more of a range of colors you can wear. For makeup you should stick with neutral tones that match your skin color.

Keep in mind, deeper skin tones with darker hair can be both warm or cool, and redheads can also tend to be on either side, according to makeup artist Jaleesa Jaikaran.

Examples of Colors That Work Well for Your Skin Tone

Cool Skin Tones

Choose cool colors on the color wheel that create contrast with your skin.

Example, if you have:

Fair skin
Blonde hair
Blue eyes

Wear:

Bright blues
Royal blues
Emeralds
Deep purples
Pinks
Lavenders

Avoid:

Oranges
Yellows

Makeup:

Blue-based eye shadows
Red, pink, or purple toned lipstick
Pale or rose toned blush

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Warm Skin Tones

Choose earth tones on the color wheel that are warm or golden and compliment your skin.

Example, if you have:

Tan olive/skin
Brunette hair
Brown Eyes

Wear:

Oranges
Reds
Peaches
Ambers
Corals
Gold

Avoid:

Icy blues
Amethyst
Ruby

Makeup:

Earth toned eye shadows
Darker red toned lipsticks
Coral toned blush

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Neutral Skin Tones

Choose colors on either side of the color wheel.

Example, if you have:

Mix of warm and cool skin tone
Ashy blonde hair
Hazel eyes

Wear:

Peaches
Pinks
Rose
Light blues

Avoid:

Browns
Black
Navy
Reds
Yellows

Makeup:

Blue-based or earth toned eye shadows
Red, pink, purple, or darker red toned lipsticks
Pale, rose, or coral toned blush

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Pre Wedding Photoshoot

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What is Pre Wedding Photography?

There are many types of pre wedding photography, which may be confusing to some. Many people use the terms for any wedding photos taken before the actual wedding, interchangeably. Some believe that a “proposal shoot,” “engagement photo shoot,” and “pre wedding photoshoot,” all serve the same purpose. But in reality, they can all be very different and useful in their own right.

Proposal shoots capture the actual “get down on one knee” moment. It usually takes some extra planning and stealthiness between you and your photographer. But capturing that special moment is perhaps one of the most treasured photos you may have. So it’s worth the extra effort and planning to make it just right.

Engagement shoots usually take place after the proposal, and tend to be more informal and relaxed . It’s a way for you as a couple to celebrate your new engagement and announce your love to family and friends. It can show you both in a casual setting, perhaps enjoying an interest or hobby. The photos can be used for wedding websites, social media accounts, or on invitations.

Pre wedding photos on the other hand, are usually taken just before the wedding day, sometimes even the day before. It’s a way to ensure that you get enough photos of just you as a couple. Of course, you are the star on your wedding day! But the photographer also needs to make sure to capture the wedding party, the décor, and your Aunt Sally. Pre wedding photos are an opportunity to take photos without the stress and distractions of your wedding day. And to ensure that the photographer is able to put the focus just on you, and not the million other details of the wedding day. Some couples opt to dress in their wedding attire. However, if you’re not ready for the big reveal just yet, you can always use a second formal outfit.

Pre wedding photo shoots are a great way to get to know your photographer. It’s a way to get comfortable with him/her before your big day. And the best wedding photographers (and pre wedding photographers) will know how to put you at ease. It will also give you an idea of how they work and how you interact together.

Planning Your Pre Wedding Shoot

A little “planning your pre wedding shoot” goes a long way. Wedding photographers may include some form of pre wedding shoot in their wedding photography packages, so be sure to ask. And once you’ve decided what type of photography package you’d like to go with, the fun and planning can begin!

Collaborate with your photographer on what you would like to accomplish for the day. It’s worth it to do a little research upfront. Perhaps use a mood board or look for inspiration on Pinterest. Maybe a theme is in order? Do you and your partner share a particular interest or hobby? Maybe you can incorporate that into your shoot. Some couples go all out for their pre wedding shoot photos, including booking far-flung locations and extravagant agendas.

It may also help to think about how you would like to use the images, ultimately. Will they be going in an album, hanging on the wall in your living room, or are you using them as a slideshow to play during your reception? These images will be a keepsake for you to enjoy long-term. So it’s a good idea to think about having these images printed, instead of just living digitally or online.

You can choose to make this more of a fun lifestyle shoot, or more formal shoot, depending on your goals. You can get as creative as you want with poses, locales, and anything else you’d like to try out. In some cases, you may even be able to shoot in the same location or venue as where the wedding will take place. Either way, it will be a lot easier to experiment, and even make mistakes! Whereas you may feel more pressured on your actual wedding day when all of your family and friends are in attendance. Take advantage of the freedom and opportunity you have. It may make all the difference in feeling more open and relaxed.

You Won’t Regret the Photo Shoots You Do Decide On

You likely won’t regret whichever photo shoots you ultimately do decide on before your wedding, but you may regret the ones you didn’t. So be sure to do some pre planning, getting clear on your goals, and then have some fun! Getting married is such an important milestone. The more memories you make (and capture) during this time will likely serve you for years to come.

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Places to take Wedding Pictures in NYC

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Top Engagement Photo Locations in NYC

Congratulations! You’re engaged. It’s such a happy milestone and a reason to celebrate. And what better way than to schedule an engagement photo shoot to document this important time in your life? If you are fortunate enough to live in or near Manhattan, you will have no shortage of places to take pictures in NYC. Central Park engagement shoot, anyone? Of course if there is a spot that has significant meaning to you as a couple, then you should start there. However, this is a celebration of your love and there are a number of just plain scenic and romantic outdoor venues that will do the trick. Check out some of our recommendations, here:

· Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City

You may not be familiar with Gantry Plaza State Park if you don’t live in the area or don’t have much reason to go to Long Island City. If that’s the case, you are missing out on one of the city’s hidden gems. This 12-acre stretch of park along the East River has stellar views of the Manhattan skyline, including The Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and the Queensboro Bridge. It is home to the iconic neon Pepsi-Cola sign, and the restored “gantries”—a throwback to the area’s industrial roots. They are both unique places to photograph in NYC. There are also piers that jut into the river, plenty of green space, and a more untamed area of wild grasses and flowers just south of the park.

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· Dumbo, Brooklyn

Dumbo, short for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass” is a popular Brooklyn neighborhood with quaint shops and cobblestone streets. It sits under the Brooklyn Bridge and offers sweeping views of the industrial underside of the bridge and the East River. Perhaps most popular for picture-taking is the 85-acre waterfront Brooklyn Bridge Park. It is a beautiful stretch of green space that features an enchanting carousel housed in a glass structure—arguably one of the best photo spots in NYC. It is especially wonderful around dusk or sunset.

· The High Line, Manhattan

The High Line is an elevated park built on the ruins of a former railroad line on the west side of Manhattan. The railway sat abandoned for years and has now been transformed into a spectacular, modern ecological oasis. It starts in the Meatpacking District and runs north to Chelsea. There are several hidden seating areas and clever nooks overlooking the Manhattan streets below. You also get lovely views of the Hudson River and New Jersey skyline across the way.

· Staten Island Ferry

Anyone remember Working Girl? The Staten Island Ferry is an iconic symbol of New York City. The signage and signature orange color offer a vintage, romantic backdrop to your engagement photos. There are spots for indoor shots, but you can also take advantage of several outdoor decks. The ride from Whitehall Station in southern Manhattan to St. George Station in Staten Island is 25 minutes. The ride offers spectacular views of the Hudson River, Statue of Liberty, and the southern tip of Manhattan. And best of all, the cost is free!

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· The Cloisters, Washington Heights, Manhattan

The Cloisters is located in Fort Tryon Park in Washington Heights on the northern tip of Manhattan. It is a museum specializing in medieval European art and architecture. The building itself is constructed from the remains of several medieval cloisters in Southern France and Spain. It features beautiful stained glass windows, medieval gardens, and actual cloisters. It sits on four acres of land with gorgeous views of the Hudson River, The Palisades, and the George Washington Bridge. It is one of the best places to take pictures in NYC. And you’ll find it hard to believe you are still in Manhattan as it is so quiet and peaceful.

· Central Park, Manhattan

Can you think of a more famous park in New York, if not the world? Central Park is a completely man-made oasis smack dab in the middle of Manhattan. It was designed by landscape architects Calvert Vaux and Frederick Law Olmsted in 1857 as a way to improve public health and water features were a key component. It has been featured in countless movies, TV shows, and books. Aside from engagement photos, Central Park is also one of the most popular places to take wedding pictures in NYC. There are so many incredible spots around the park. Some of the best include, Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, The Boathouse, Belvedere Castle, the Conservatory Garden, The Mall, and even the Children’s Zoo. It’s a year-round attraction with ponds for row-boating in summer, and ice-skating in winter.

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· South Street Seaport

South Street Seaport is a historic part of southern Manhattan. It has charming cobblestone streets and historic buildings, including a maritime museum that preserves the history of New York as a great port city. You can often find grand historic ships docked at the pier. And while it maintains a storied past, it has also become a super hip and trendy destination for tourists and locals alike. There are also several outdoor decks with gorgeous views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge that are great for picture taking.

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Why Have an Engagement Photo Shoot?

Engagements are one of life’s sacred milestones. It is, presumably, a once-in-a-lifetime event that is important to document by contracting a professional engagement photographer. Oftentimes this will also be your wedding photographer so it is a good opportunity to get to know him/her. You can think of it as a more casual warm-up to the wedding. It’s a way that you can get comfortable with the way they work, and he/she in turn, will learn the way you interact as a couple and how best to capture you. It’s also an opportunity to get comfortable with posing in preparation for your wedding day.

Many couples use these pictures for printed or online material. They can also be used for before-wedding websites, social media accounts, or on invitations. Or they can serve on your wedding day for brochures, blowups, or on other printed materials, like wedding favors. Most importantly, they will serve as a keepsake for this special time in your life.

Different Types of Engagement Shoots

There are different types of engagement photo shoots, including the actual proposal, and the after-proposal.

Organizing a photo shoot for the actual proposal usually takes a bit more planning and stealthiness. But a proposal photographer can help with the details and logistics of how best to capture this special moment. Maintaining the element of surprise will, of course, be paramount. It may involve hiding out, or just shooting you with a zoom lens from far away. Whatever the plan, the secrecy of it all will add to the build-up and excitement of the day.

Maybe you have already had the proposal and you are simply looking to celebrate and document your life as a newly engaged couple. If this is the case you have a bit more leeway. According to some, engagement photos should be taken within 1-2 months of getting engaged before you get carried away with wedding planning.

Either way, searching for “proposal” or “engagement photographers near me” will help you find someone in your area who can help make your vision come to life. The average cost of engagement photos can vary, depending on where you live and how many hours you require. But expect to pay anywhere from $200-$1,000 for a photo shoot—a fraction of what your wedding day photo costs will be.

Preparing for Your Engagement Photoshoot

Once you’ve decided on your couples’ photographer, you should do a little preparation ahead of time.

We don’t always have control over the weather or the time of day that we can schedule our shoot, but it is an important consideration. Outdoor shoots are a popular choice, with Spring and Fall being perhaps the most popular seasons to work in. Time of day is also extremely important to any kind of outdoor photo shoot. And if you have the luxury to choose it, golden hour, sometimes called “magic hour”, or late afternoon, offers the most flattering light. Early morning light works well too. The rule of thumb is to have your shoot one to two hours before sunset, when the light is soft and glowing. Or if you’re morning people, one to two hours after sunrise is also an excellent choice. It’s best to avoid noon, or midday hours as the light and shadows are too harsh. Also, you will have a difficult time not squinting in all your photos.

Discuss with your photographer the possibility of inclement weather on the day of your shoot. If there is no possibility of rescheduling, don’t despair. You may have to get a little more creative but that may just add to the fun. Using props such as umbrellas (more on that, below) or finding hidden sheltered spots can make for some beautiful shots (and memories!) You can always try moving the venue someplace indoors if all else fails. How about a favorite café or movie house that you like to frequent?

Speaking of locations, scenic spots are always nice but places that hold special meaning to you as a couple is equally important. Do you live in a city? You can choose an urban shoot, visiting some of your favorite places around town. Are there activities that you do together that hold a special place in your heart? Say, you like to go to ballgames…is there a way to incorporate your favorite stadium into your shoot? Maybe there’s a park where you had your first date, or a beach spot you like to go to? If you are at a loss, your photographer will surely have some great recommendations on locations that make for beautiful photos.

Getting in the Right State of Mind

Getting your photos taken doesn’t usually rank high on people’s “favorite things to do list.” It may take more than just being told to, “act natural and be yourselves.” Actually doing an activity together may be just the thing to help you forget there is a camera around tracking your every move. As mentioned, maybe it’s going to your favorite café and having a coffee together. Or strolling through your local farmer’s market, checking out the latest wares. Or maybe it’s just taking a walk through the park, or admiring the sunset. Whatever helps you to be present and in tune with one another, instead of hyper-vigilant that you’re being photographed. Taking some of these candid shots first may help break the ice a bit. Once you get the hang of it and are feeling more comfortable then you can move on to posed shots.

If you can’t take the day off, make sure you take the time to unwind. This is especially helpful if your shoot is planned for right after your workday. Is there time to grab a quick meal or a drink to connect before your shoot? Maybe even invite the photographer along to join you? This might ensure you all have a few moments to share and unwind together before getting in front of the camera. Relaxed people and expressions make for the best images!

Another thing to help you relax may be to use props. A few simple ideas could be balloons, bubbles, flowers, or Champagne and flutes. Do you have a favorite hobby or pastime that you can incorporate? Maybe you play a musical instrument or you love picnics. Do you have a dog that is considered part of the family? Dogs are great at helping to distract and put you at ease.

Dress the Part

Outfits are an important aspect to consider for your engagement shoot. Dressing for the season is a nice idea. A summer dress would work nicely, paired with something like linen pants and a dress shirt for your partner. It’s not necessary to be so matchy-matchy with your partner, but it is a good idea to coordinate your outfits. You want to be sure that you and your partner are on the same page in terms of level of casualness or dressiness. And most importantly, you want to look as if you “go together.” If your partner opts for a little black dress and heels, don’t wear sneakers and your ripped jeans. Your outfits should compliment one another.

It’s a good idea to prepare for your shoot as if you are getting ready for an important event or date night. You may want to spring for professional hair, makeup, and even outfit selection. Styling services are well versed in how to highlight your best features and what looks best on camera.

If you choose to style yourself for the day, keep in mind that makeup should be slightly more pronounced than your usual routine, so that it shows up better on camera. It may also be a good time to schedule your wedding trial makeup session. This way you can ease into your look and be comfortable with it before your wedding day. Also, don’t forget a manicure, as you will probably want photos taken of you

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Professional Business Headshots

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The Importance of Professional Corporate or Business Headshots

People are beginning to see the value and importance of investing in professional corporate and business headshots. There are so many outlets these days that require more than just a “selfie.” Social media sites, especially LinkedIn and Facebook, as well as corporate and personal websites all increasingly require some type of professional photos. Which is why it’s a great idea to invest in professional business headshots. We are a visual society, and one’s appearance is key. Hirers can often tell the difference between a professionally done, polished corporate headshot, and a glorified selfie. Do some research for “business portrait photographer” or “corporate headshots near me” to find a photographer in your area. You can then read any reviews they may have and view their work online to see if it matches your style.

What to Wear

There are several good rules of thumb when it comes to what to wear for a business headshot or company headshot. Perhaps the most important is to simply dress as if you are meeting with an important client. In this case, you would probably make sure that you look polished and professional. You want to look your best, make the sale, or at the very least, make a good impression. If you don’t have a job, try and dress for the job or role you want. Remember that your appearance and what you wear is an extension of your brand, and first impressions are everything. A 2006 Princeton University study found that it takes just one-tenth of a second to make judgments about a person.

Another rule is to keep it simple. You don’t want to wear anything that is too busy or distracting. Over-the-top colors or busy prints may be fine for your everyday, but they don’t tend to read well on camera. Also, you want the focus to be on you, not your clothes. It’s also important to avoid tightly spaced patterns, which can cause a moiré effect—a distracting optical illusion of wavy lines.

Think simple, structured, fitted, and neutral for the best results. Patterns don’t need to be avoided entirely, as long as they are simple and subtle. Light or flimsy fabrics like linen or silk may not work best, as they are difficult to keep wrinkle-free. Structured or fitted clothing is preferred because they show the natural curve of the body. It is certainly more flattering than bulky pieces. Also, the camera adds ten pounds, and no one wants to appear bigger than they actually are because of clothing choice. Layers tend to work well, look polished, and add interest. A blazer or cardigan on top of a button down shirt or dress is a smart option.

Color and Accessories

If you insist on color, jewel tones also work well. They are flattering on most skin tones. But avoid nude colors or anything that is too close to your actual skin color: think contrast. Also, a white or light colored shirt with no detail might appear blown out.

Jewelry and accessories should be kept simple. A statement jewelry piece might work, or a dainty, choker-like necklace for women. For men, a tie should be solid or simple-patterned and should generally match the width of your jacket lapels.

Keep in mind that if you are using this for a LinkedIn profile, the picture will be cropped. So something like a long strand of necklace may likely be cut and look awkward just floating in space.

Another thing to avoid is anything that is too trendy or seasonal. Unless you are having your headshot taken every other week, you want it to last over a period of time. A scarf or heavy sweater may work for winter months but not if you’re applying to jobs in the middle of summer.

Exceptions to the Rule

Of course there are exceptions to the rule. Boring or conservative does not have to be the name of the game. If you’re in a creative field or your entire personality revolves around being loud and proud, then by all means, look the part! It all depends on what you are trying to convey. An executive portrait may differ from a model or actor headshot.

Most importantly, wear what best represents who you are. If you are not a suit and tie guy, don’t wear it. Maybe a tailored button down shirt and jacket will suffice. When in doubt, always bring options, even if your shoot is for one look only. Your photographer can help you choose what works best on camera. Whatever you choose should make you feel confident and comfortable in your own skin.

Confidence During Your Shoot

If you feel good in the outfit you choose then that is the first step to feeling confident during your shoot. Many people tend to freeze up when they get in front of a camera. This is normal. But the idea is that hopefully as you go along during the shoot you begin to loosen up. A lot may have to do with the chemistry you share with your photographer. A skilled corporate photographer will know how to put his/her subject at ease. It may simply be through casual conversation.

Research Poses

Generally, you’ll want to convey a sense of confidence, approachability, and friendliness in your headshot. Practice poses and different facial expressions before your shoot day. This will give you an idea of what works for you and what doesn’t. It may also help you discern what your “good side” is, if you don’t already know.

People are usually more comfortable sitting down. It also gives you somewhere to rest your hands! (People often don’t know what to do with their hands so simply resting them on your thighs helps). Sitting can also help with stability and not moving around too much. Once you are posed you want to avoid large sweeping motions. This will help keep your hair and clothes intact. From there, you should make small adjustments to your pose with each snap. Sometimes the smallest gestures will bring out the most natural expressions.

Don’t Forget to Breathe!

We tend to hold our breath when we are uncomfortable. If you’re too tense it will often show up in your pictures. A good exercise is to overly exaggerate a smile and then soften it. It will serve to help ease the muscles in your face and give you a more natural expression.

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Professional Product Photography

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The Importance of Product Photography

We have become a society where consumers with money (and often, little time) are drawn to easily digestible visual imagery. Just look at the explosion in popularity of social media sites like Pinterest and Instagram. These sites mostly cater to our visual senses. And they have smartly capitalized on this visual consumerism by evolving their platforms to include ecommerce capabilities. This successful and fast-growing segment proves how valuable the power of images can be. Even traditional ecommerce site Etsy found that 90% of their shoppers say image quality is critical to their purchase decisions.

The importance of ecommerce photography in featuring your products cannot be stressed enough. According to Statista, a leading provider of market and consumer data, “In 2019, e-retail sales accounted for 14.1 percent of all retail sales worldwide…and this figure is expected to reach 22 percent in 2023.”

Product photos can speak to a need, lifestyle, aesthetic, or aspiration of a potential buyer. And what better way to sway a consumer to buy your product than with clean, well curated, and beautiful images?

Why Hire a Professional Product Photographer?

Product photography is one of those things that anyone with an iPhone is capable of doing these days. However, there is a marked difference between what an amateur photographer can capture, and that of a seasoned professional. Say you have a website where you sell textiles. You may be able to take your own pictures and have them look decent. However, important aspects like true color depiction may not come through. Close-ups of essential details may be lost. Things like scale, proper lighting, and simply knowing which angles to highlight can be difficult.

This can also be particularly tricky with something like jewelry photography. Capturing products that are small, detailed, reflective, or curved is not easy without the proper equipment. Even knowing which backdrop to use, and how light and shadow compliments or distracts, can be pretty advanced concepts to master.

Professional product photographers are well versed in all of these aspects. They will often have high-end professional equipment and years of know-how to best display the product you are trying to sell. Additionally, they often provide retouching services, which can be invaluable to making your product images look top-notch.

Not everyone may have the money to hire a professional photographer for his or her product photography, especially if you are just starting out. But if you look at it in terms of return on investment, you may see it is well worth it.

Strong imagery may be precisely all it takes to sell your product, and that’s an investment worth making.

Product Photography nyc - Photo Studio 308 — Product Photography nyc – Photo Studio 308

What Can You Expect From a Product Photoshoot?

Professional product photography will make your products appear in the very best light—quite literally!

A good product photographer will collaborate with you on what message or feel you want your product/images to convey. How do you want your products displayed? Do you want them to appear singularly, floating against a clean, white or neutral backdrop? Or do you want to tell more of a story, as in a lifestyle setup? This may involve props, models, or an outdoor environment, for example—which may affect costs. It’s always a good idea to discuss where the shoot will take place ahead of time. Is the photographer willing to travel to you, or will the shoot take place in a studio?

Ultimately, you may decide that a combination of the styles—static and lifestyle—is the best way to feature your products. Static shots may serve more for clarity and accuracy. While lifestyle shots may serve more for showing how to use a product in its intended environment. Lifestyle images can also pack more of an emotional punch and allow for a lot more creativity.

How a Photographer’s Expertise Can Make a Difference

A professional product photographer will know what to feature, and how best to feature it. Whether it is a small item, like jewelry, or a larger one, like furniture. A product photographer can help determine which lighting, angles, and details to focus on.

They can use specialized lenses like a macro lens for smaller items and to feature essential details. Conversely, they may use a wide-angle lens to better capture oversized items. They will often use other specialized equipment like lighting, backdrops, props, and editing software for polishing final images.

Another important consideration your photographer will know is how many shots each product will require. Usually a full-product shot will be necessary. In addition, there may be several “details” shots. You may need another image that shows scale. Or it may be helpful to have a group shot showing variations in style, shape, size, and color. And finally, you may need a shot, or several shots, of the outside packaging.

In the end, the decision will be yours. But having a professional product photographer to guide you will make all the difference.

The Importance of Product Photos to Your Brand

Your product photos are a direct reflection of your brand. They can be a calling card for the work that you do or the quality you represent. Oftentimes your product photos serve as a first impression to your larger body of work or offered products. If your images are technically deficient, don’t offer enough information, or are just plain dull a consumer will likely scroll on by.

Remember, product images may be the only way to communicate to a consumer what your product is about. Consumers don’t have the benefit of walking into a store, seeing your product, and picking it up with their hands. They can only generate an informed opinion of your product by how much and how well you visually communicate to them. This is why it is essential to create images that will engage your customers and entice them to buy.

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Boudoir Photoshoot

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Boudoir shoot

Boudoir photography is increasingly becoming a more popular form of photography and expression among women looking for anything from a little confidence boost, to a full stepping outside their comfort zone. The word “boudoir” is a French term meaning, a woman’s bedroom or private room. The idea being that it is a sacred space where a woman can be herself, relax, feel comfortable, sensual, even playful. There is a notion of inherent mystery surrounding boudoir photography, and capturing what is usually considered a private moment behind closed doors.

The reasons for considering boudoir photography are varied. It can simply be a way for you to feel beautiful, confident, or capture a moment in time that you would like to preserve; perhaps a time in your life that you feel youthful and vivacious, or just the opposite—if you’re feeling down and need a confidence boost. The experience of boudoir photography can be a truly empowering experience.

A set of boudoir pictures can be an amazing gift to a spouse or partner, to mark an anniversary, wedding, or other life event. Perhaps as a way of celebrating your body before giving birth—or even after!

Plus Size Boudoir Photography

Confidence comes in all shapes and sizes—whether you are new to being in front of the camera, whether you are a seasoned model or an amateur, petite, or plus-sized—anyone is a candidate for boudoir photography.

If you’re just at the beginning of your journey, an easy way to find a photographer in your area is to simply do a Google search for “boudoir photography near me.” From there you can likely peruse their portfolio of work on their website and see if it matches your aesthetic. You can also look for reviews and testimonials to gauge what it may be like to work with a potential photographer. Once you’ve narrowed your search, it’s time to reach out with pointed questions about what you can expect from a boudoir photo shoot.

To begin with, start with the basics, such as how long a boudoir shoot will last and how much will it cost, how many boudoir photos you can expect to receive from the shoot and when, what kind of images and in what format (print, digital, in a portfolio, etc.). You can then inquire about what other services your photographer may offer; where will the shoot take place? Is the photographer willing to travel to your home, or will it take place at their studio? If your boudoir shoot takes place in a studio, will props be used? Does the photographer offer stylist services, such as hair, makeup, and wardrobe? If not, is that something that you will be handling yourself? Are outfit changes included?

A good photographer will welcome any questions you have

Keeping in mind that the most important aspect of a photographer/client relationship is that the client feels comfortable throughout. Once you have done your research and feel you have found a photographer that you “click” with you are halfway there. A good photographer will be welcoming and skilled at making you feel safe and putting you at ease during your shoot. They will be able to give clear instructions on how to pose, and which poses are most flattering.

It may be helpful to do a bit of research beforehand and choose some images of looks and poses that you would like to recreate. Think about what your goals are in terms of how you would like to come across? Cute, sassy, sexy, playful—all of the above?

Another consideration is to know your assets, and what parts of your body you would like to highlight. Perhaps you love your legs, but you’re insecure about your midsection. Besides discussing this with your photographer beforehand, who can suggest poses and ways to highlight certain parts and hide others, a good solution could also be to look for a flattering, corset-type outfit that will hide your midsection and elongate your legs.

Boudoir Photos

It is natural to feel timid the first time being in front of the camera, but as the shoot progresses it is often the case that you will loosen up and become more comfortable in time. As mentioned, the chemistry you have with your photographer will also play an important role. Ambiance in the form of lighting, props, music, and sometimes even a glass of bubbly may all help to put you in the mood and make you feel more at ease during your shoot.

Women often report that having an intimate, boudoir photo shoot can be a life changing experience. Besides being both empowering and liberating, it can also be addicting! If you’ve had a positive experience during your shoot you may likely come back again for a different occasion or life event.

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Photo Studio 308 New York Wedding Photography Central Park

Photo Studio 308 Wedding Photography

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Your wedding is pretty much one of the most important days of your life and you wouldn’t want anything to go wrong especially because you have important people coming to the wedding. It is a challenging thing to plan for a wedding because it involves various service providers and choosing what you want in a limited scope of time. However, careful and effective planning will ensure that your wedding will go on smoothly and be a memorable one too.

A key part of the wedding is the memories that you create during the ceremony and what better way to capture the memories by using wedding photographer NYC. Wedding photography is the essence through which great moments can be captured and remembered for a lifetime. However, it is not as simple as contacting a photographer and setting the date for the day. There are many attributes that you got to consider before settling on a New York wedding photographer.

Quality of Work

It is no secret that there are many photography agencies in New York and choosing one may be a daunting task especially if you have limited time. One aspect to consider in choosing your photographer NY is the quality of their work.

Technology in the photography industry is fast-changing and better quality will always suffice. Therefore, you want to visit the photographer’s website and check out the quality of their photographs and videos. The higher the definition of images the better the quality of work being offered by wedding photographer NYC.

Wedding Central Park New York City Photo Studio 308

Cost of Service

A key factor in setting up a wedding is the cost. As couples, you want the best wedding at the cheapest cost. However, the two attributes never meet and couples have to look for services and items that play the part. For instance, wedding couples should consider settling on a New York wedding photographer that offers quality affordable services.

This can be a tricky part for the couple because most sites do not quote their prices upfront. While those that do so don’t break the costs down for the couple to understand what they are in for. A photographer NY can decide to hide some hidden costs to make couples choose them for cheaper rates. However, in reality, there are hidden costs like editing video footage and photographs.

Couples should look for a New York wedding photographer that breaks down their costs in their websites. The spectacle helps the couple save on time rather than having to wait for a speedy response from a contacted photographer NY who has a long list of clients they are responding to.

Conclusion

Searching the web is easy but making a choice is difficult. However, the sole purpose of blogs is to help make your work easier in following the right path to conclude. If your journey in searching for the right New York wedding photographer has been difficult, check out Photo Studio 308 Wedding Photography for detailed quoting on the packages they offer with no hidden costs guaranteed.

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How to Build a Model Portfolio

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When you think about how to build a model portfolio, you can understand that it is no easy task especially if you are a beginner in your career. As a beginner, you may not know where to begin from or who to approach in your modeling career. However, starting a modeling career can be a daunting task but with the right information, it could be made easy.

As a model you have to remember that your model portfolio acts like your modeling resume, therefore when you think about how to create a modeling portfolio, you must make sure it represents who you are in the industry. It should have everything about you that makes a good impression and showcases what it is you can do. If you know what is best for you then here is how to make a professional modeling portfolio using a step by step guide in building an effective model portfolio for yourself.

how to make a professional modeling portfolio

Determine Modeling Style

Modeling is a wide industry and it is categorized into different sections depending on the preference of the model. Modeling can be conducted in the fashion industry, live modeling, runway modeling, or brand modeling. What matters is the model’s preference therefore; models are to choose the style they are comfortable with from the beginning of their career. However, this does not mean that they should stick to the original style. They can change but it has to be what they are comfortable with.

Carlos Kremmer Fashion Photographer NYC - Model Test Shoot — Carlos Kremmer Fashion Photographer NYC – Model Test Shoot

Hire a Great Photographer

Being a good model does not stop at that instance. You need a good photographer and a good environment in which you could showcase your best talents. A good photographer is talented, experienced, and understands what the current trends are. As a first-timer, you may tend to go for the cheaper photographers who are not quite qualified for the gig. Being a new model, you want an experienced photographer who may be expensive but understands what the industry requires from you.

A good photographer has great photos that you can refer to and beforehand the photos look clear and of quality especially when presented to relevant high-end agencies. These are the kind of photos that take the attention away from the model and focus on the craft represented by the agency.

Hire Professional Makeup Artist

The success of your curriculum vitae otherwise referred to as your model portfolio depends on the kind of make-up artists you have. It may not be important to continue by the prowess of the industry but by the ability of an artist to protect their art by choosing the right makeup artist. Makeup in itself is an art and plays a larger role in identifying and protecting different aspects of the model industry. Even though some of the aspects revolve around the era in which the program regulates, it is solely dependent on the preference of the artist and the skill of the artist.

Practice Posing and Choose Fashion

Posing plays an integral part in choosing the right posture in presenting you. Coupled with the kind of apparel presented for the industry, you have to work hard towards portraying your true nature in the photo industry. The two attributes revolving around posture and clothing style can guarantee your future just from your model portfolio.

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Headshot NYC

Why Does the Pricing for Headshot Photography Vary?

The reputation of the photographer:

The skillset of the photographer:

The workflow of the photographer:

The beliefs of the photographer:

What is the Average Price Range for Headshot Photography?

The high-end headshot photographers

The mid-range headshot photographers

Their style:

Skill level:

Retouching:

The budget headshot photographers

Conclusion

What is Pre Wedding Photography?

Planning Your Pre Wedding Shoot

You Won’t Regret the Photo Shoots You Do Decide On

Top Engagement Photo Locations in NYC

· Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City

· Dumbo, Brooklyn

· The High Line, Manhattan

· Staten Island Ferry

· The Cloisters, Washington Heights, Manhattan

· Central Park, Manhattan

· South Street Seaport

Why Have an Engagement Photo Shoot?

Different Types of Engagement Shoots

Preparing for Your Engagement Photoshoot

Dress the Part

The Importance of Professional Corporate or Business Headshots

What to Wear

Color and Accessories

Exceptions to the Rule

Confidence During Your Shoot

Research Poses

Don’t Forget to Breathe!

The Importance of Product Photography

Why Hire a Professional Product Photographer?

What Can You Expect From a Product Photoshoot?

How a Photographer’s Expertise Can Make a Difference

The Importance of Product Photos to Your Brand

Boudoir shoot

Plus Size Boudoir Photography

A good photographer will welcome any questions you have

Boudoir Photos

Quality of Work

Cost of Service

Conclusion

Determine Modeling Style

Hire a Great Photographer

Hire Professional Makeup Artist

Practice Posing and Choose Fashion