The short answer is simple: about one hour.
For most professional headshot sessions in my Ottawa studio, you should plan for roughly an hour. Corporate team headshots done on location can sometimes take longer, but an individual professional headshot session typically fits comfortably within that time.
After photographing hundreds of professional headshots for Ottawa professionals, I’ve found that an hour gives us enough time to relax, get comfortable, and capture images you’ll actually enjoy using.
If you want to know what happens during a headshot session, keep reading.
Starting With a Conversation
When you arrive, we’ll spend a few minutes talking about what you need your headshot for. Understanding where the photo will be used helps guide the entire session.
For example, your headshot might be used for:
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LinkedIn or other social media profiles
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Your company website
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Marketing or speaking engagements
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Acting portfolios
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Starting a new business
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Even online dating profiles
Each of these situations has a slightly different goal. Knowing that ahead of time helps me suggest what to wear, how to pose, and what style of headshot will work best for you.
Those first few minutes are also important because they help you relax. Believe it or not, learning a little about what you do often helps me figure out how to photograph you at your best.
The Photography Session
The actual headshot photography portion usually lasts about 30 minutes.
I only book two headshot sessions per day — one in the morning and one in the afternoon or evening. That means we are never rushed and we have plenty of time to make sure we get images you are happy with.
During the session we may try:
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Different backgrounds
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A few clothing options if you bring them
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Small adjustments to posture and expression
I always recommend bringing a couple of clothing choices so we can create a few different looks during your headshot session.
Seeing Your Photos During the Shoot
As we photograph, you’ll be able to see your images on my computer screen.
This is one of the most helpful parts of the process because it allows us to make small adjustments as we go. It also helps you see what looks best right away.
Most clients end up loving this part of the session because they can immediately see the results.
Choosing Your Headshots
Once we feel we have the shots we need, we’ll review the images together and narrow them down.
Some people choose one main headshot they use everywhere. Others select a few different looks for different platforms such as LinkedIn, websites, or marketing materials.
Total Time for a Headshot Session
From the moment you arrive to when you leave, a typical professional headshot session takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.
Sometimes it’s a little quicker. Sometimes we take a bit longer. The goal is simply to make sure you leave with a headshot you feel confident using.
Professional Headshots in Ottawa
If you are looking for professional headshots in Ottawa, my studio specializes in creating relaxed, natural images for business professionals, entrepreneurs, and actors.
A professional headshot session is designed to be comfortable and efficient so you can leave with a photo you’ll feel confident using on LinkedIn, company websites, and other professional profiles.
