If you’re on the hunt for a new headshot but not sure how the process works, you’ve come to the right place. I have over 5 years of experience in headshot and portrait photography, and I’m here to help! Here’s what to expect from your first session with a headshot photographer and how you can successfully present yourself to the world.



Are headshots important?

YES! Headshots help with your personal branding. Whether you are a performer or a business professional, a headshot will do most of your personal marketing for you. The average person will determine their impression of you within 7 seconds - so make sure your headshot is professional, clean, high-resolution, and edited. Today, everybody can take a photo, but if you want to stand out from the crowd, I recommend getting it done professionally and by someone who knows how to edit! Not all editing programs are created equal. A professional headshot photographer will know how to find and fix those minor tweaks such as stray hairs, skin blemishes, etc.

When I’m editing headshots, I like to speak with my client to find what is most important to them. Do they want some of their beauty marks to show? Are they self-conscious about a freckle? Maybe they would like their teeth whitened or subtle digital makeup. The possibilities are endless!

Do I have to be photogenic?

Nope! A good photographer will help guide you to a position that will flatter you, even if it feels awkward or weird in the moment! My job as the photographer is to capture the real you in your photos.

I’m getting headshots taken for the first time - what should I expect?

When you arrive at your photography session, come prepared. It is normal to have questions when you arrive (how does my hair look? Does this lavender blazer look good?) When I am booking a session with a client, I want to take some time to get to know the person. I provide my clients with beauty and style guides to help prepare for the big day. Ask for tips! Another great resource is Pinterest.

When your session starts, I will encourage you to try a variety of poses. This is your chance to be a model! Even if you are wearing a plain white t-shirt, you can still show off your personality with a smile.

Indoor verses Outdoor Photos

I recommend indoor photos for your professional headshots and outdoor photos for your portraits. Headshots need to be clean - a light kit and filter set can achieve this very easily. Portraits can range from family photos, graduation, engagement, etc. These typically work best when combined with a lovely sunset or natural scenery.

Should headshots be re-taken regularly?

I personally believe that headshots should be re-taken every 3-4 years. Hairstyles change! You want to look as close to your photo as possible, but it’s okay to not be 100% identical.

What about props?

Props should only be used if you are wanting it to represent your brand. A chair, a laptop, a book or magazine, etc. When you book with me, you can tell your me that you’d like to incorporate this in your session for a more “cinematic” shoot.

Any tips for men?

I recommend that men have a clean shave. A stubble works really well if that fits your personality. I can do digital touchups such as light shaving, nose hairs, etc. - it’s magic!

How much do headshots cost?

For Lauren Harrell Photography, headshots can cost anywhere from $50 to several thousands. A mileage fee may be added if the session is 15 miles or more outside of the Sugar Land area. The price can range if I'm doing the session in a studio or at a certain location.

Final tips

Always make sure your photographer understands what you want. Be clear with your expectations! Don’t be afraid to ask about pricing upfront and ask for examples of the photographer’s work if you can’t find it on their website or on their social media accounts.

I hope to see you at a photo session soon!

To inquire about booking a photography session with me, please contact me  here  or send me an  email.