First of all, Pamela Tatz of Pam Tatz Photography is an angel with camera. Let me love note it for you simply: She’s been a lady both behind and in front of the lens and knows what is ant is *not* working – she’s my go-to photographer in Los Angeles (when my boyfriend doesn’t wanna take photos of me……which is mostly) and I just adore her!
Instagram-isms aside: If you’re someone with a professional online presence, then hooray. You need a professional headshot photographer. So let’s get down to biznizzz.
Anyone online who isn’t updating their profile picture regularly absolutely should be, but these days it seems almost everyone settles for a selfie they took…well, themselves.
For creative individuals, social media gurus and professional business people alike, social media can be the first visual-based impression someone will get of you, unfortunately these days.
Making a first impression through a professionally-taken headshot can make or break the difference in how you’re perceived in what ever industry or environment you’re in.
If you haven’t gathered it by now: Your photos tell a story.
COMMON TYPES OF HEADSHOTS
- Theatrical (think film, television, theater)
- Commercial (think television hosts and film models)
- Professional / Business (think real estate, lawyers)
- Lifestyle
Here are life-style shots Pam took of me at her studio. These are intended to tell a bigger story than a regular headshot, but it’s not standard practice for theatrical or commercial. Additionally, it’s too laid back for business. For me, these photos are a great addition in showcasing my vibe within my personal brand.
Photos by Pamela Tatz
STYLING AND WARDROBE
Your clothing is key to bringing your story to life. Style is always important, but what’s even more important is being yourself; and in some folks’ case, knowing thy clothing.
Always bring a selection of clothing options in colors that compliment your skin tone and always check with your photographer before your shoot if you have any styling questions. Example: What color backgrounds are available? What colors should I avoid?
WHAT ABOUT MY HAIR?
Your headshot should show you at your best, and hair is an integral part of that look as well (I know that mine takes A LOT of effort due to thickness, fly-aways, frizziness and overall shape).
If you have a hair stylist you visit regularly, I suggest going to them about a week before for any routine cutting or coloring. This will allow the cut or style to set-in a bit. God forbid you do it the day of and it never looks as good as that fresh-out-the-salon look.
For men, consider the image you want to portray in the long run. If you’re a clean cut professional, show up to the shoot looking that way. If you prefer a 5 o’clock shadow and wear it well, prepare and show up that way. The important thing is to take some time considerable in advance of your shoot and always consider the story you want to tell. Be sure to make sure your look fits what ever narrative you deem fitting.
WHAT ABOUT MAKEUP?
Again: You should look like yourself on your best day. Don’t overdo it! Modern photography captures some pretty incredible detail; which is…..very honest; oftentimes an over-abundance of makeup rarely flatters your skin.
That being said, skincare the night before and the day-of are essential; especially before you apply any makeup.
• Exfoliate your skin (this exfoliant by Murad is a splurge but will last you forever)
• Facial steaming for a week (this works for a more buoyant look to your skin)
• Moisturizing cream (I love a good retinol)
• Lock it all in with a facial oil (Midnight Recovery by Khiels is great)
More notably, it’s important to remember that studio lighting can sometimes wash out your face, so always wear makeup according to your skin hue. Balance is key, bb.
For example, your cream blush could hide on camera, but in person it shows up great. I suggest doing a little test shoot on your own to explore what makeup brands work best for on-camera.
For eye makeup (especially mascara and eyeliner) you can (and should!) emphasize your eyes. Natural lipstick or lip liner with a matte finish typically photographs well if blended correctly. Lipgloss just makes you look super glam.
Powder is recommended to keep shine off your face so there’s no glare on the finished look. If you prefer to have a stylist on-site for your shoot you can always contact a number of professionals who can help out in your area.
RE-TOUCHNIG YOUR IMAGES
Most headshot photographers have pricing that includes basic retouching and color correction. My retouching philosophy is that you were born with it, you should not depend on your photographer to take it away.
Temporary blemishes that will be gone in a few days or few weeks can and should always be removed (unless that’s your type) and slight variations in skin tone can be made less apparent. Anything else like reducing the presence of scars, moles, birthmarks, character from aging or removing any other permanent features would present a false advertising. The viewer of your photo will find this misleading and human eye is incredibly discerning, don’t be fooled. We’ve all seen an overly retouched image and it’s…laughable at most.
At least for me, my goal when being shot is to achieve pleasing, comfortable, flattering (but accurate) images that… wait for it… tell a story!
WHAT DOES IT COST?
Not all shoots are priced the same, but here’s a look at what miss Pam has to offer in the Los Angeles area. And may I just say…she prices VERY fairly, from my experience.
HOW OFTEN SHOULD I UPDATE MY HEADSHOTS?
Actors, actresses, and those in the performing arts should have headshots done annually.
Children and teenagers in performing arts should update their headshot more frequently, as their appearance typically changes more rapidly.
For corporate and business environments, photos can be scheduled whenever a new employee comes on board and those whose appearance has changed significantly should have updated photos taken.
If you have more questions, Pam has a great FAQ available here. If you like my shots and want to book with Pam in the Los Angeles area, you can visit Pam for a session by clicking, or contacting her below:
Phone: (310) 746-6161
Email: pamela@pamelatatzphotography.com
Address: 500 N Brand Blvd, Suite 2000, Glendale, CA 91203
Until then!
xoxo,
megs
