You’re going to look amazing!

Over the years we’ve learned a few things, so check out our tips and tricks below to help you look and feel your best the day of your session.

BEFORE THE SHOOT

Before your headshot session, check out a couple of incredibly helpful videos by Peter Hurley. As a member of the Peter Hurley Headshot Crew, Pam is a pro at these techniques and knows the dramatic results that can come from these two little ‘tweaks’ to your shoot. Don’t worry, she’ll walk you through each step and remind you of how it all works, but these videos will give you a head start.

TIPS FOR WOMEN

Important Coaching and Practice:

Watch these two, 15-minute (or at least 6 or 7 minutes) Peter Hurley YouTube videos and practice in the mirror at least 2 days before the shoot.
1) It’s all about the Jawline Jawline

2) It’s all about the Squinch Squinch

Hair&Make-up:

I want you to look like you, just a polished-up version.

  • Use neutral natural tones and avoid shiny or glitter eyeshadows.
  • Be sure and put foundation on your neck and décolleté, then blend well!
  • Bring your makeup and hair products in case we need to do a touch-up during the shoot.

What to avoid with Make-up

  • Do not use matte finish lip color, it will make your lips appear flat-we want color, shine and shape on the lips.
  • Eyeliner that appears to be drawn on like it was done with a Sharpie marker.
  • Eyebrows (even if drawn on) to appear a natural as possible.

Awkward Hair Issues:

Some of us have peach fuzz, nose hair or even a couple rogue chin whiskers that appear out of nowhere!  The major stores have a battery-operated trimmer for around $15 in the razor section.  It is well worth it, and your makeup will have a more polished look.

Wardrobe:

Your top (and jacket) is your most important accessory make sure it fits well!

1. Bring 4 – 5 new (or almost new) ironed solid color tops on hangers.

2. Choose colors and tops with collars that are flattering and fit you well, especially around your neck and shoulders.  A jacket is a nice way to change up the look.

3. Jewelry: Minimal, if any.  It can be distracting and date the photo over time.

Follow the above steps.  Not only will be more prepared for your session, instead of an ordinary photo, you will achieve an extraordinary headshot!……Pam Stukenborg

TIPS FOR MEN

Hair: Style your hair as usual (if applicable). Neatly groom all hair, including clean shaven or beard, nose, eyebrows and ears, my camera picks up every detail.

Make-up: None. I do not recommend makeup for men

Wardrobe: Your shirt (and jacket) is your most important accessory, make sure it fits well and is not too big or too small!  There should be no gaps between your neck and your shirt collar.  The seams of the shirt and jacket should place squarely on your shoulder and not hang over.  Try your choices on before the shoot.

1. Bring 3 – 4 new or almost new solid-color, pressed shirts on hangers. Make sure each shirt fits you well around your neck and shoulders.

2. If you wear an undershirt that will show with an open collar, be sure it is new.  It must have a pristine collar.

3.  A suitcoat or a sportscoat is a nice way to have an optional look.  However, make sure it fits you well in the shoulders and neck.  (I’m sure you have guessed by now how important this is.)

Important Coaching and Practice:

Watch these two, 15-minute YouTube videos and practice in the mirror at least 2 days before the shoot.

It’s all about the Jawline.

It’s all about the Squinch.

It’s a headshot, not a mugshot! Let’s have some fun.
Here’s the process in a nutshell.
Stukenborg Photography - Session Prep

01 | PREP

You’re going to look amazing! Over the years we’ve learned a few things, so check out our ‘session prep’ page for do’s and don’ts to help you look and feel your best the day of your session.

02 | CONSULTATION

We know that the idea of a ‘photo shoot’ can be unnerving. So, before your session, we’ll get to know you a little and discuss what you want your headshot to say about you.  We will put you at ease and you will actually have fun!

Stukenborg Photography - Photo Session

03 | COACHING

Pam Stukenborg is a nationally recognized headshot expert. Through her engaging personality and proven techniques, she sees past the ‘ordinary’ and brings out the extraordinary. You’ll leave your session as confident as you look in the pictures she takes.

04 | INSTANT REVIEW

Instant display of your images allows you to see how things are going during your session. Before you leave the studio, we will have selected your best look!  After that, a little retouching to polish it all up, then you’re ready to showcase your new headshot.

05 | HEADSHOTS THAT GET YOU NOTICED

Pamela Stukenborg Photography - Peter Hurley Headshot Crew
Pam Stukenborg Photography Thumbtack Pro Photographer
Pamela Stukenborg Photogrpahy - Bedford Camera
Pamela Stukenborg Photography - Peter Hurley Headshot Crew
Pam Stukenborg Photography Thumbtack Pro Photographer
Pamela Stukenborg Photogrpahy - Bedford Camera