What to Expect From Your Headshot Session: FAQs
This FAQ answers the most common questions people have before a headshot session, including what to wear, how to prepare, how image selection works, retouching, and when you will receive your final photos. It gives you a clear understanding of the process so you feel comfortable, confident, and ready for your session.
How must does a headshot cost?
Pricing varies depending on whether you need an individual session, team session, or on-location shoot.
You can find current pricing on my headshot pricing page.
How long does a headshot session take?
No time limit, or I can have you in and out quickly. Generally, about 45 to 60 minutes
How do you prepare for a headshot?
A little preparation goes a long way in creating a polished, confident image.
To get the best results from your headshot session, wear well-fitted, solid-coloured clothing (avoid busy patterns), keep hair and makeup natural, and groom facial hair neatly. Minimal jewelry works best, and if you wear glasses, bring along different pairs.
Keep it simple.
Can I change outfits during the session?
Yes, there is a bathroom at the studio where you can comfortably change outfits and a mirror for any last minute touch ups. Most clients bring two or three options so we can match clothing with background and lighting. Having a few choices helps you get different looks from your session.What if I don't like having my photo taken?
No problem, I understand that most people do not like standing in front of a camera. Good news, I love taking photos.
What I am good at is making people feel comfortable in front of the camera. I’ll guide you in posing, expression, and small adjustments to help you relax, look natural, and enjoy the experience.
I elevate clients from feeling nervous, anxious, or not photogenic, to an empowering headshot experience where they feel comfortable, relaxed, love their images, and excited to share them with their friends and business networks.
Do you help with positioning and expression?
Absolutely, guiding you is a core part of the session.
I’ll walk you through posture, angles, expression, and subtle adjustments that make a big difference. Even if you’ve never had a professional photo taken before, you’ll feel supported the entire time.
What are 37 different ways to use a headshot?
You may only need one great headshot, or multiple images, depending on your needs. Check out 37 different ways to use a headshot, including for LinkedIn, websites, speaker profiles, business cards, social media, and more.
Should I smile in a professional headshot?
Absolutely, and it’s optional, too.
I encourage expressions ranging from a warm smile to a neutral look. During your session, we’ll capture both so you can select the look that best represents your professional image. Read more about smiling, or not .
How do I choose the images that I want to buy?
After our headshot session, we will sit down in front of my computer and select which images you want to buy.
From all the images that I shoot, I do an initial selection, and then together, we go through a second selection process of picking the image, or images, that you want to have retouched.
What if I don't like my photos?
The session continues until we capture photos you're happy with.
I’ll show you some images as we go, so you can see what’s being captured, and we can adjust if needed.
It is a collaborative process from start to finish, and you decide the final selections.
What does "retouching" an image mean?
The goal of retouching a photo is to make it look like there was actually no retouching done!
When do I receive my images?
Final, professionally retouched photos are typically delivered in 5–7 days after your session. If you need a quicker turnaround, just let me know and we can arrange rush delivery with prior notice.
Is there parking at your studio?
Yes, there is lots of FREE parking at my studio, located at 64 Parry Sound Drive, Parry Sound, Ontario.
What about Team, Group, or On-Locations photoshoots?
Yes, I offer team, group, and on-location sessions tailored to your organization’s needs. Reach out for customized scheduling and pricing. Contact me.
Do I like music?
Sure do, check out my playlist that I fire up during a headshot session.
What are my favourite colour wine gums?
My favouries are black. No question. And, I still hold a slight grudge against my Aunt who told me for the longest time, "they taste like black licorice", when I was a little boy.
People Also Ask
How much does a headshot cost?
Pricing depends on whether you need an individual session, a team session, or an on-location shoot. You can check the latest rates on the headshot pricing page.
How long does a session take?
There is no strict time limit, but most headshot sessions run about 45 to 60 minutes.
How should I prepare for my headshot?
Wear well-fitted, solid-coloured clothing and avoid busy patterns. Keep hair and makeup natural, choose minimal jewelry, and bring extra glasses if you wear them.
Can I change outfits during the shoot?
Yes. Clients are welcome to bring two or three outfit options, and the studio has a bathroom and mirror for comfort and privacy.
What if I don't like being photographed or feel nervous?
That is completely normal. You will be guided through posing, expression, and small adjustments to help you relax and feel confident in front of the camera.
Do you help with posing and expression?
Yes. Coaching for posture, angles, and expression is part of every session, even if you have never had a professional photo taken before.
How do I choose the images I want to keep?
After the session, you review the images together on a computer. An initial selection is made, and then you choose which photos you would like retouched and purchased.
What does retouching mean?
Retouching is a subtle enhancement that polishes your image while keeping it natural. You will receive professionally edited photos after you make your selections.
When will I receive my final images?
Final retouched images are typically delivered within 5 to 7 days. Rush delivery can be arranged with advance notice.
Do you offer team, group, or on-location sessions?
Yes. Team, group, and on-location photoshoots are available. Please get in touch for scheduling and customized pricing.
"Working with Peter, you get more than terrific headshots; you get a fully immersive experience. His studio is cozy, he explains every detail, from changes to the backlighting to the body positions that make the subtle things stand out. A fun and professional experience."
I highly recommend Peter. When you walk into his studio it is welcoming, clean and professional. You sit down with Peter and go over the session. He makes you feel comfortable and you begin taking headshots. Peter walks through how to pose and makes you laugh the whole way through.
