Setting up your own mobile phone studio.

Today many of us are staying close to home which makes visiting a photographers studio not an option. We still need headshots for social media, resumes and other digital purposes, so let's take your selfie headshot to the next level.
Since it's my craft I still believe that a professional headshots makes a difference but if you can't or won't venture out from where you are then let's work on the next best solution.
What I'm going to show you is how I took my own headshot recently and that the environment doesn't need to be pretty. No one sees what else is in that room. The only thing that's important is you. Let's start with the final headshot here.
Equipment:
  • Mobile phone that takes photos. That means something with a high-enough resolution that you can take a clear sharp picture. 
  • Remote trigger release. You can find them for under $10 on Amazon. You'll find a lot of other uses for that device so it won't go to waste. Using the timer on your phone won't give you a chance to properly pose. You'll be running from the phone to where you are seated, smooth your clothes and hair, relax, sit etc. Go back and try again.
  • Light. Use what you have. A window, bright computer screen, other.
  • Tripod. Floor or table top. Leaning the phone against books isn't your best option. You may need to move it a couple times and that would be difficult.
Background:
  • Use something that is pleasing and not distracting. A bed sheet, blanket, wall etc.
  • It's helpful if you have a light or white surface that you can put below your face to reflect and to soften hard shadows. When needed I cover a piece of cardboard with foil for a quick reflector. 
The shoot:
  • I took 45 shots to get two final photos. I deleted 23 right away because the expression wasn't what I wanted, a bra strap was showing or I wasn't centered enough to crop for a headshot. 
  • Because I could see the phone screen I had a general idea of the pose.
Retouch:
  • Yes, the final is retouched. A tweak on wrinkles, erasing some hair sticking out on the right side, crop and done. The photo in the header is the original. 
This may sound easier that it will be. Take your time. Enjoy learning something new. If you need help or have question get in touch. Enjoy the process!
I hope this little tidbit is helpful.
Note: I'm working with a client right now to develop a virtual photoshoot for her headshot and business. If you'd like any information about that send me an email.
When you're ready for your next executive headshot or personal branding photo session search out the photographer that will best meet your needs and personality.  If you're in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area I'd appreciate a message from you to talk about how you want your headshot to reflect who you are.
Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Portfolio

Yours truly, Linda
480-353-9415, Linda@LindaKazares.com

PS I travel often to the San Francisco Bay area.  Please let me know what would be convenient for you and I will schedule an appointment the next time I'm there.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Everyone Else Is Posting A New Headshot. Are You?

Image
  How did you feel that last time you posted a new professional headshot? I'm guessing pretty good. What I've noticed on social media is when a client posts a new headshot the comments like these start to explode.                                                        Love it Gorgeous Wow You're so pretty Very professional... You look younger than ever Fabulous as always only more so... Awesome So handsome. Keep up the good work. You're looking good... Who took that photo? I want to look like you. When I read the comments and see clients' social media likes it's an endorphin rush. There are so many reasons why you'll want to update your headshot.  It will attract new viewers. Have you ever bought a book twice because the cover was changed? You get the idea. An updated headshot will keep you in front of clients and prospects so you're top of mind when they need you, your services or products. A current headshot contributes to your authenticity. When I mee
Read more

How Pre-Event Planning will Enhance the Results of Corporate Event Photography Part 2 of 2

Image
In Part 1 we covered Productive Ways to Use Corporate Event Photography with 14 tips to consider the next time you hire a photographer for an event. Pre-Event planning is an important step that will assure success. Without it it's like darts - hit or miss. The plan will be used to communicate with your team and photographer so everyone is on the same page when it comes to before, during and after the event. There are two key areas to define in the planning stage that should be provided by the organizer to the photographer: a check list of shots that will be needed depending on how the photos will be used and tactical instructions.   Suggested “shot list” many include: Pre-event setup. This can involve set-up, preparation and decoration throughout the construction phase before the attendees arrive A step and repeat at the 'Red carpet' location as the attendees arrive Posed and candid shots of VIPS such as speakers, awardees, key clients etc. Crowds m
Read more

How many faces can you make? A headshot story!

Image
I think a lot about headshots. I think about what's best in a headshot and can come up with a dozen ideas that suit me but maybe not you. What it boils down to is that your headshots reflect your personality, supports your story ~ all while it projects your brand. We live in a visual world. Professional photography has never been as important as it is right now when communicating with prospects and influencing your market. You are the literal face of your business and you want your prospects and clients to know who you are. Building a robust library of photos is key to maintaining a fresh portfolio of flexible visual assets. It is useful to have more than one headshot taken during a session. That provides flexibility for when and where to post your photo. It's an opportunity to always have something new to post and update your followers and clients on social media, place on  business cards, press releases, brochures, announcements and more. Decide what works best f
Read more