Preparation + The Process
Studio Address
We have moved our Exton/Philly locations to a centralized location in Rittenhouse:
110 S 20th St, Suite 300
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Before the Shoot
Men: I suggest getting a haircut 1 week prior to the shoot. This allows for your hair to grow in slightly. If you are growing out facial hair for the shoot, please make sure it is groomed. You can shave mid-shoot if you would like shots with facial hair and without facial hair. Photo magic!
Women: Getting your hair cut more pertains to any split ends/damage, or creating some layers in your hair. If you have shorter hair, a full cut a week ahead of the shoot may be beneficial for you.
Make sure to apply chapstick liberally throughout the week preceding your session. Chapped lips are enemy #1 of a headshot session.
The Night Before & What to Bring
The Night Before:
- Do not consume alcohol
- Get a good night's rest; it makes a huge difference in your photos!
- Drink lots of water to hydrate your skin and avoid chapped lips
What to Bring:
- Chapstick
- Any hair/makeup/grooming products you love
Hair and Makeup Services
(not currently available at our studios due to the COVID-19 pandemic)
If you are working with a hair and makeup artist, arrive at their studio with your hair washed and dried. Wash your face, apply moisturizer to your skin, and you're good to go!
Regarding products:
Our artists are fully stocked, but it never hurts for you to bring your own products that you can't live without for your artist to use.
Clothing Guidelines
- Please make sure the clothes are wrinkle-free and clean. Please fold them or lay them out in your car so they look their very best.
- No logos.
- Simple/plain shirts look the best. Avoid stripes or busy patterns.
- Avoid clothing that is transparent in any way.
Actors / Performers / Creatives
- Avoid black shirts and red as a primary color.
- Clothes should fit well and hug the body. They should not be baggy.
- Stick to one layer. Solid sweatshirts and leather jackets can work.
- Bring at least 3 to 5 shirts so we have options. Bringing a variety of shirts is always great.
- Dresses are totally fine.
- You can wear jeans or whatever type pants you'd like to wear; they won't show in the images.
Businesspeople
- Avoid red as a primary color.
- Clothes should fit well. They should not be baggy or overly tight.
- Suit jackets, blazers, dresses, and blouses are perfectly acceptable, as are button up shirts.
- Bringing a variety of shirts/tops is beneficial to give us options during the shoot.
- Black is totally fine to wear for business headshots.
- You can wear jeans or whatever type pants you'd like to wear; they won't show in the images.
Makeup / Hair / Jewelry
Makeup Rules:
- Makeup should be a light to medium amount. When in doubt, go with less makeup.
- No highlight/contouring.
- Wear only a little mascara and very light eyeliner.
- No colored eyeshadow or intense lipstick. Subtle, neutral colors only.
- Please make sure your makeup matches your skin tone and blends well around your jawline.
- Avoid any sort of sparkly/shimmering makeup like the plague.
Hair & Grooming:
- Bring your makeup and hair products with you to touch up if needed.
- Wear your hair as you would to a big audition. Watch out for strays and frizz.
- Guys, makeup isn't necessary. A little cover-up over acne is totally fine.
Jewelry & Extras:
- No jewelry, except for business headshots in which small stud earrings and a subtle necklace are acceptable.
- If you would like to add a hair and makeup artist after booking, please contact me at least 5 days before the shoot.
Think more "I woke up like this" than "date-night"
The general idea is to look natural for the camera. That's why we stick to neutral colors and don't over-define the eyes. The makeup is supposed to enhance your look without looking overdone or unnatural.
As always, let us know if you have any questions prior to your session.
mike@mikestyerphotography.com
(267) 888-4693