The two most common things I hear before a headshot session are ‘I don’t like photos of myself’ and ‘I hate being in front of the camera.’

I understand. I sometimes still get the same nervous/awkward feeling before I have to be in front of the camera too! The funny thing is I love hearing those words. Every person who leaves my studio gets a set of photographs that flatter and resonate with them more than any other photos they’ve had. Even better, the anxiety about getting photos taken quickly fades away because they had a fun, amazing time, and left with a few new tricks to use whenever someone pulls a camera out.

I love having people in different professions and career stages come into the studio to update their headshots. I can quickly relate to anyone and put them at ease - it’s kind of like a superpower. We’re here to have a few laughs and get a set of photos that show the real you.

‘Had my session today with Steve and he was absolutely fantastic. He was so warm and made me feel very comfortable in front of the camera. Definitely recommend him for corporate shots…’ - Michelle D.

We have fun. What’s the point if you’re not? I’m a big fan of getting a little loose and cracking a few jokes to bring out the personality everyone wants to see. Your personality is your greatest asset and expresses itself through your eyes and mouth. With precise timing, I look for the split second when everything lines up, and your best, most approachable and confident self shows up. Click. We adjust and do it again (hopefully with a better joke this time).

Immediate feedback. During the headshot session, the photos we take are instantly up on the monitor. This is super helpful for a few reasons. When the first photographs show up on my screen, I can see the stress drop from my client’s shoulders. They relax and realise how great they look, and step back in front of the lights with confidence. We collaborate by continually reviewing photos, improving what’s already working, and making small tweaks to achieve the best portraits throughout the session.

Switch it up. It’s important to know where the headshots will be used so we can decide what combination of background colour and outfit choices will work best. In my studio, we can easily shoot on pure black, white, or shades of grey. Each option has different benefits for mood, skin tone, and contrast. Before the headshot experience, I send out a few tips on choosing outfits, hair and makeup, and setting yourself up for the best possible result.

‘I was hesitant to get new headshots, and didn't know if the cost would equal the value. I can 10000% say that the new shots are on point - represent me, and it was such a fun, easy experience with Steve. Beautiful photos that have truly represented my personality and my professionalism all in one. Knowing that these will be everywhere for a while, I'm so grateful that I engaged Steve for them - and I'd HIGHLY recommend everyone to do the same. So natural, authentic and fun.’ - Andrea C.

Many people haven’t had a recent photo of themself that they love. My favourite reaction is when a client says ‘Wow, that’s me,’ after they have chosen their favourites. They leave the studio excited, confident, and with a proud smile.

I make getting headshots easy and enjoyable.

‘Stephen is the warmest and most welcoming person. In a situation that is most foreign but where you need to look the most natural, Stephen is a master at making you feel comfortable, relaxed and yourself. He is incredibly patient and willing to go the distance to make you look and feel your best in the shoot. But above all his photos are amazing. Cannot recommend enough.’ - Carissa T.

Before the shoot, we establish a few things to make sure you love and get the most out of your new set of photographs.

What do you want people to feel when they see your photo?
Who do you need to be for your target audience?
Where will you be using your photos?
What does your career plan look like for the next 2-3 years?

Choosing with guidance. When the camera is down, after lots of laughs and inappropriate jokes, we sit down together and select the photos that will give the best first impressions. Because we are sometimes our own worst critic, I give my expert opinion on which photographs will work best based on your outcomes. Once the final selections are made, we make any retouching notes and send the selected photos off to my retoucher for a finishing touch.

Winning headshots capture the real you in the best light. The comfort that people feel in the studio shows itself in their photographs.

And if you’re interested in booking your own Sydney Headshots on the Northern Beaches, this is the place! https://www.stephengovel.photo/headshots