If you’re like most of the women I photograph for headshots and branding photos, you probably don’t love having your picture taken. Many of my clients tell me they know they need a good photo, but they’d rather do just about anything else.
I understand that completely. I hid from the camera for years myself. So if the thought of a photo session makes your stomach flip a little, you’re in very good company.
I photograph women of all ages, and plenty of the women who come to me are in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. Many tell me they haven’t had a photo they liked in years. Wherever you are in life, this is for you.
So I wanted to walk you through what a headshot and branding session with me actually looks like, from our first conversation to choosing your favourites. When you know what to expect, it’s so much easier to relax and enjoy it. And yes, it really can be enjoyable.
Before Your Headshot & Branding Session: A Little Planning Goes a Long Way
Before we ever pick up a camera, we’ll have a quick phone or Zoom chat. We’ll talk through backgrounds, clothing, hair and makeup, your brand colours, and how you plan to use your photos. Don’t worry if you don’t have it all figured out. That’s part of what we sort through together. I’ll also send you my Styling Guide with tips on makeup, hair, and what to wear, so you walk in feeling ready.
I’ll help you choose clothing that suits you and works well together, and I’m always happy to look at a few options ahead of time if you’d like a second opinion.
A little skin prep in the days before your session can make a real difference too. My free Camera-Ready Beauty Guide walks you through it step by step.
Think About Where Your Photos Will Live
This is the part I wish more women thought about before their session.
So often a client tells me she just needs one headshot for her website. I completely understand. But a few months later, she’s using that same photo on LinkedIn, her Facebook profile, her newsletter, her Google Business Profile, a bio for a speaking event, and every social post where she wants to show her face. By the tenth time, even a photo she loves starts to feel a little tired.
So before your session, grab a pen and jot down every place your photo might show up over the next year or two. Your website alone might use more than one, maybe a classic headshot for your About page and something a little more relaxed for your homepage. Social media goes through photos quickly. And it’s nice to have a few personal branding photos ready for when you launch something new or just want a fresh look.
Some women really do only need one great headshot, and that’s perfectly fine. The point is to think it through ahead of time, so you leave with the photos you’ll actually use.
Session Day at My Calgary Studio
Most sessions happen in my home studio here in Calgary. It’s cozy and low key, nothing fancy or intimidating. Honestly, it feels more like a few friends hanging out for the day. And if it helps put your mind at ease, our team is all women.
Hair and makeup are optional, but most of my clients choose to have them done. Hair is styled at a local salon I’ve worked with for years, and makeup is done right in the studio by my friend and makeup artist, Rachel. She’s wonderful at creating a look that still feels like you, and she has a way of putting everyone at ease. You’re always welcome to do your own if you prefer.
Once you’re ready, we’ll create classic headshots plus a variety of three-quarter branding images using two different backdrops. Changing up your look with different pieces or layers gives you polished headshots for LinkedIn or your website, and more relaxed images for social media. You’ll never be left wondering what to do with your hands or where to look. I’ll guide you through every pose, and we’ll take our time. There’s no rushing here.
If you’d like a peek behind the scenes, my What a Session Looks Like page has photos of the studio, Rachel, and a few of the lovely women we’ve worked with.
The Worries That Hold So Many of Us Back
I hear the same few worries again and again, and I want you to know they’re completely normal.
“I’m not photogenic.” I hear this one the most. But usually what’s really going on is unflattering lighting, awkward angles, and nobody ever showing you how to stand. That’s my job, and I promise you won’t have to figure it out on your own.
One of my clients, Merrill, put it best in her review. She said my sessions are perfect for people who hate having their picture taken or don’t think they’re photogenic. That made my day, because those are exactly the women I love photographing.
“I’ll do it when I lose a few pounds.” Oh, I understand this one deeply. But the people who see your photos are looking for a warm, real person they can trust, and that’s exactly what we’ll show them. Waiting for the perfect moment usually means waiting years, and in the meantime you’re using a photo you don’t love, or no photo at all.
“I’m so nervous.” Almost everyone is at first. The nerves usually settle within the first few minutes, especially once you see how relaxed the studio is.
I truly believe there’s beauty in every woman, and finding it is my favourite part of what I do. You don’t need to change anything first. Love and celebrate who you are right now.
After Your Session: Choosing Your Favourites
About one to two weeks after your session, you’ll get your own private online gallery where you can see your images and choose your favourites. If you’d like, we can also meet on Zoom to go through them together. I’m happy to help you decide and answer any questions.
Remember that list of where your photos will live? This is where it really comes in handy. Choosing is so much easier when you already know what you need.
When I’m Booking Headshot & Branding Sessions Again
Right now my studio is taking a little pause, but I’m looking forward to welcoming women back. The best way to hear when I’m booking again is to join my waitlist. I’ll get in touch as soon as sessions open up.
If you need a headshot sooner, my post on How To Take Your Own DIY Headshots at Home will help you get something you’re happy with in the meantime.
Either way, please don’t wait until you feel ready. You’re ready now.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a headshot and branding session take?
Most sessions take about 2 hours, including makeup. If you’d like your hair styled, plan for about 45 minutes more. We never rush, so you’ll have plenty of time to settle in.
Do I need to have my makeup done professionally?
No, it’s completely optional. Most of my clients love having Rachel do their makeup, but if you’d rather do your own, my post on Why Your Makeup Doesn’t Look Right in Photos has tips to help it show up beautifully on camera.
How many images should I get?
That really depends on where you’ll use them. I aim to give you at least 10 to 20 images to choose from, so you’ll have lots of options. Some women only need one headshot, while others want a handful for their website and social media. We’ll talk it through so you choose what makes sense for you.
What if I don’t like how I look in photos?
Most women I photograph feel that way walking in. I’ll guide you through posing, use lighting that flatters, and give you time to relax. Many women are surprised by how much they like their photos.
Where is your studio?
My studio is in my home in NW Calgary and works by appointment. I share the address once your session is booked.
