ABOUT THE SHOOT

Top agents and casting directors have been recommending Chia for years.  She knows what the industry wants in a headshot.

Simplicity is important - remember, you need to be the focus of the picture.  Busy backgrounds and stylized compositions can make for interesting photographs, but they can be distracting.  Your headshot is your calling card; make sure it highlights you!

SHOOT LENGTH

The length of a shoot depends on many factors, but generally men should expect to be here for 2 to 3 hours, and women for 3 to 4 hours.  Chia spends the time needed to get the best shots.

LIGHTING

Chia combines studio light and natural light.  Her skillful blending of light creates a flattering and natural look under any conditions.

AFTER THE SHOOT

You may schedule a post-shoot consultation to make your final choices, or simply order them by phone or e-mail.

HAIR / MAKE-UP

While a good make-up artist can't save someone from a bad photographer, a bad make-up artist can ruin an otherwise good shoot.  All of the stylists at the studio have worked with Chia for years.  They are highly skilled at providing a natural  to a more polished look .  Whether they are doing natural or more dramatic make-up, they tailor it to your particular needs, always producing a fresh, modern look that highlights you.

Women

The stylist does hair and make-up, and stays for the entire shoot.

See our Head Shot Rates page for costs

Men

Chia helps with your hair and does whatever make-up is necessary.

CLOTHING

Safe Rule of Thumb - bring more clothing than you think you need.

Everyone is unique.  During a consultation (if you schedule one) or at the beginning of the shoot, Chia will make some recommendations, based on your specific needs.

GENERAL GUIDELINES

Bring a range of clothing, from casual to more upscale . If in doubt , better to bring it along.

Choose clothing to reflect your style.

Fitted clothing, rather than bulky is usually best - although layering pieces creates visual interest .

Solids are safe , however prints can also work well . Chia also loves whites.

Keep in mind that a color shot does not necessarily mean that you need to pick bright, loud colors.

Remember, you need to be the focus, not the color or pattern of your shirt.

PREPARATION

There is no one right way to prepare for a shoot.  Remember that it's natural to be nervous.

Bring an iPod or CD's  with music you'd like to listen to during the shoot.  A large collection of music is also available at the studio.

Don't party the night before (save it up for the night after the shoot!)

Try to get sleep the night before.

Eat and drink enough water.

If exercise or meditaion makes you feel refreshed, do it.  If playing poker makes you feel refreshed, do that.

Come prepared to work, and also come prepared to have some fun!

NOTE FROM CHIA

It's natural to be nervous before a shoot.  It's also exciting!  Throughout the shoot, I'll give you all the guidance and direction you need.  My approach is hands on and laid back.  While I will never pose you, I can can help you to find your own rhythm.  When it's there, it's effortless, we both know when it happens.

I'll work with you to create shots that have motion and a natural feel.  The best way to get a great headshot is for me to shoot real moments!

-Chia