Getting Ready for your close up
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You will find a helpful Scheduling Form to get your team organized. Some teams also like to use Google Calendar or similar scheduling software to keep everyone on the same page.
You will also receive a Call Sheet outlining the timing for the day. This will include detailed information of the shoot date logistics, as well as an overview of the how the day will unfold.
You will also receive a Portrait Guide to share with your team. This helpful guide will help everyone look their best.
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Typically, a minimum space of 8’ x 12’ (2.5m x 3.5m) with 2-3 free electrical outlets is required to set up the studio.
For best results, the more space ... the better. That being said, I have been able to make-do with smaller spaces.
Feel free to send me pictures and dimensions of your space if you think it is too small.
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In order to give you the most options, I like to shoot corporate headshots on a white background with a large natural looking light. The white background also makes it suitable to replace with a custom background.
I use professional quality lighting equipment making it possible to reproduce the style for future hires.
This lighting setup is simple and flattering, but I’m happy to explore different lighting styles to meet your needs
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Usually between 30-45 minutes. We will spend a few minutes deciding on your wardrobe and last minute touch ups. Most people take about 10-15 minutes in front of the camera and another 10 minutes choosing their hero image.
Generally, men take a little less time than women because there is less hair to tame.
With a Hair & Makeup Artist on set you will want to add another 15 minutes to your portrait session.
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Sure! The more the merrier!
About Your Hero Shot
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Usually 40 - 50 shots per person.
We will take about 20 shots per side to perfect your pose and get a range of expressions to choose your hero image from.
Don’t forget to brush up on your “Blue Steel”!
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Depending on the timing of the day, we may have time for simple changes.
Do you want to try some shots with glasses and without? No problem.
Switch up a tie or jacket. Sure thing.
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By tethering the camera to a laptop we can instantly see your photos.
Once we have taken a good range of photos we will edit them together.
We will compare the different poses and angles and decide what works best for you and promote them.
Then we will look at that batch of selects and continue to promote the best photos until we find your hero image.
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Although it can seem like a luxury, a Hair & Makeup Artist makes the entire process smoother and more pleasant for everyone.
A few minutes of professional attention will quickly and naturally make your entire team look fresh, rested and looking their best.
With an extra set of eyes on your corporate headshot we will make sure you look perfect.
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Of course you can! Additional retouched hero images are $50/each (plus HST).
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This happens from time to time. I’m happy to e-mail you a screenshot of your top picks so that you can have your family and friends help you choose your hero shot.
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It really depends on the art direction I receive from your company’s communications department.
Sometimes the whole team gets the same background for continuity.
Some teams choose to go with a variety of backgrounds.
Tips & Tricks of the Trade
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You’re not alone. I would say that 99% of people don’t like being in front of the camera. I get it ... you would rather have a root canal than getting your picture taken.
Rest assured that 99% of people are relieved at how painless and professional the whole experience is once the process is done.
The key is to think happy thoughts. A moment or a person that makes you feel good.
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Even if there is no Hair & Makeup Artist on set, I travel with a mirror, some bloating tissues (for shine) and a limited amount of grooming accessories.
I do recommend that you bring your own comb/brush and makeup for touch ups.
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Retouching has been part of portraiture since the dawn of photography. I promise to use my experience to bring out the best version of you in a natural and subtle way.
I understand that you have been working long hours and drove your kids to hockey practice this morning. That’s why all hero images go through a standard retouching process that includes smoother skin, brighter eyes, teeth whitening and softening of blemishes.
That being said, I understand that some people want to look slimmer and younger. That’s why I offer premium retouching techniques. I will always keep it as natural and subtle as possible.
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We can use it for art direction :)
The Cost of Doing Business
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Yes. Please contact me directly for rates.
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It can range from $500 - $800. It really depends on how many people will be photographed that day.
Please contact me directly to get an accurate estimate.
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There is a $50 fee for photo shoots located outside of the City of Toronto.
This includes the regions of Halton, Peel, York & Durham.
For an estimate on travel fees outside of the GTA please contact me directly.
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No problem. I always have at least 2 backups of your photos on file. I can send you a new USB drive with your photos for $50 + HST.
Technical Speaking
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Short Answer: No, because RAW files are very large unprocessed files.
It would be cost prohibitive to offer the RAW files. Not to mention you risk an inconsistent look to your photo library.
The good news is that I deliver High Resolution (Hi-Res) versions of your hero image on a white background. Ideal for further editing by your marketing department.
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Each team member will receive the following aspect ratios and dpi:
Full frame, 8x10, 4x6 and 1x1
Web size: 3000px long @ 72 dpi
Print size: 13” long @ 300 dpi
Please let me know if you require specific outputs.
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Yes. Please see this article for more information ... https://help.dropbox.com/accounts-billing/security/safe-to-use
Of course. I’m happy to work with your IT department to come up with an appropriate solution.
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I use full frame Canon cameras, with L-Series lenses.
Feel free to reach out with any questions.