Everything You Need to Feel Confident and Prepared
At Headshots LA, our goal is simple:to make your session relaxed, efficient, and enjoyable – and to create headshots you’re excited to use.
This guide walks you through exactly what to expect before, during, and after your shoot, so there are no surprises and no stress.
If Your Headshots Are On Location (Your Office or Space)
Before the Shoot
Please send the following in advance:
1. Background preference
Let me know which background you’d like: black, gray, or white.
2. Building access details
Please send:
- The address
- Any security or check-in instructions
3. Parking information
My SUV is approximately 6’4″.
Let me know if garage clearance is an issue or if street parking is preferred.
4. Shooting area
We’ll need a long, open space to set up lighting and the background.
I arrive 30 minutes early to set everything up so we can start on time.
If Your Headshots Are in the Studio
Studio Address
1130 S Flower St, Apt 201
Los Angeles, CA 90015
How to Enter
- Entrance is via Flower Street
- Gate code: look up “Headshots LA”
If you ever feel unsure when arriving, don’t worry – just text or call.
Business Headshots Los Angeles Page
Before You Arrive: Two Quick Requests
1. Outfit photo (optional but super helpful)
If possible, send a photo of what you plan to wear. If you share this with a team member of yours to make sure everyone on your website is properly fitting in the company appearance.
This helps ensure your wardrobe looks great on camera – especially for teams.
2. “Good side”
If you know it, great.
If not, no problem at all – I’ll guide you during the shoot.
How to Prepare for Your Headshot
Step 1: Wardrobe
Your goal is to look polished, modern, and confident – not over-styled.
Men
Formal
- A suit works great
- Also, ties are optional
- If wearing a tie, choose something simple and not distracting
Casual
- Polo shirts or short-sleeve button-downs
- Clean, tailored, and professional
- Similarly, a suit jacket with a t-shirt is cool, but make sure it works for you
Women
Formal
- Suit or blouse
Casual
- Button-down shirt, dress t-shirt, turtleneck, or casual dress
Wardrobe Tips
- Choose colors that complement your skin tone, eyes, and hair
- Generally, modern cuts photograph best
- Shirts that frame the face work well
- Well-fitted clothing (not baggy)
- Finally, bring options if you’re unsure
Avoid
- Very bright or neon colors
- Busy patterns
- Outdated styles
- Wrinkled clothing
- Pure white tops unless layered under a jacket
Step 2: Hair & Makeup
Clean, Fresh, Natural
Men
- Generally, makeup is not necessary
- Style hair as you normally would
- Also, retouching will take care of small blemishes
Women
- Style hair as you would for a special event
- Makeup should look natural and fresh
- However, avoid heavy or dramatic looks
- Lips should be close to your natural tone, matte or lightly finished
Please Avoid
- Trying a new haircut right before the shoot
- Excessive tanning
- Stressing about small blemishes – retouching handles that
Step 3: Mental Preparation (This Matters Most)
Prepare your wardrobe in advance so the day of the shoot feels easy.
On shoot day:
- Relax
- Then breathe
- Most importantly, trust the process
This is not a test.
I’ll coach you through expressions, posture, and energy the entire time.
Ultimately, confidence comes from preparation – and you’ll be prepared.
How to Perform in Front of the Camera
(Don’t Overthink This)
Head Position
- Small, natural movements work best
- However, avoid excessive head tilting
- I’ll guide you in real time
Hands
- Let them relax naturally at your sides
- Don’t cross arms unless directed
Focus
Put your attention on:
- Your energy
- What your face is communicating
We’re capturing how you want clients, casting, or employers to see you.
Parking Near the Studio
- Best option:
Parking garage at 1119 S Hope St, Los Angeles, CA 90015
(Usually around $10 cash, but may vary) - Street parking and nearby lots are also available
After Your Shoot
What Happens Next
When You Receive Your Photos
You’ll receive a Pixieset gallery, usually by the next day.
Then please read the instructions in the email carefully.
Step 1: Downloading Your Photos
- First, download images directly from Pixieset
- Additionally, the link will remain active
- Additionally, high-resolution JPEGs are available upon request
Step 2: Selecting Images for Retouching
How to choose
- First, find the number under each image
- Only send the image numbers, not screenshots or files
Important tips
- Don’t worry about tiny details – retouching handles those
- Instead, focus on expression and confidence
- Above all, make sure the eyes are sharp and clear
If you’d like to purchase additional retouched images, please do so before sending image numbers.
Step 3: Sending Image Numbers
Finally, email your selected image numbers to:
retouchingHSLA@outlook.com
As a result, the retouching process stays organized and fast.
Final Thought
This process is designed to be simple and stress-free.
If you ever have a question, feel unsure, or just need reassurance – reach out.
You’re in good hands, and I’ll guide you every step of the way.
Looking forward to creating great images together.
BELOW IS INFO FOR AFTER YOUR SHOOT
Directions For When You Receive Photos
MUST READ INSTRUCTIONS Click Here
- You will be sent a Pixiset link usually by the next day.
- Follow the directions in the Post Photoshoot instructions that are included with the link you receive with your photos.
- Send all your retouching numbers to my retouching email address. retouchingHSLA@outlook.com
Downloading Your Hi-Resolution Photos (Step 1)
- Download your photos from Pixiset. Also, the link will stay active. If you want hi resolution jpegs they are provided on request
Selecting Photos for Retouching (Step 2)
- Image Numbers – The image number is located below the image in the gallery that I sent to you. However, never change the image number. It is how I locate your photo. Do not send me the actual photo, I only need the number. Also beware when you download the images to your phone sometimes your phone will renumber the photos and you will have to go back to find them on the original viewer on the web that I sent.
- You receive for free a certain number of retouched photos with your package. (Eg 1 Look 1 Retouch)
- If you would like to purchase extra retouched photos purchase them before sending your image numbers. Extra Retouched Photos Click Here
- Don’t Sweat The Small Stuff – You want to look for a photo with a nice expression that shows who you are and overall composure. Don’t worry about loose hairs or if the face is a little under exposed and etc. Retouching will make photos pop and get rid of all the small details that distract. Instead, look at the big picture. How does your expression make you feel? Choose wisely my friends. And please make sure you don’t pick a shot where your eyes are blurry. They got to be crisp.
Sending Your Image Numbers for Retouching (Step 3)
- Retouching Email – Send your image numbers to this email address retouchingHSLA@outlook.com This way I can easily see who is next in the process and will save time for retouching.
Want more prep advice? Read our headshot tips for a great session.