It’s one of the most common things I hear from professionals before a headshot session:
“I’ve just never liked how I look in photos.”

And it doesn’t matter what industry they’re in—tech, law, finance, creative fields—the sentiment is the same. Some people have never had a professional headshot. Others simply feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. Some are shy, self-critical, or unsure of how to pose. I get it. Being photographed can feel awkward or even vulnerable.

But here’s the truth:
It’s my job to make you feel confident, comfortable, and at ease—so you actually love how you look in the final images.

A Real-Life Example: A Women’s Law Association

I remember photographing headshots for a women’s law association at Pepperdine University. Some of the women stepped in front of the camera with total confidence—they loved it! Others were a bit more reserved, hesitant, or unsure of how they’d look. But by the end of the session, something changed.

Through gentle direction, positive encouragement, and taking the time to make each person feel at ease, every participant walked away with polished, professional headshots they were proud of. Even those who started out nervous saw how great they looked. That transformation—seeing someone shift from doubt to confidence—is the most rewarding part of my job.

What to Expect from a Headshot Session

As a professional headshot photographer, I do more than just press the shutter. I create an experience that’s:

• Low-stress: No rush, no pressure—just a relaxed pace and a calm environment.
• Collaborative: We’ll work together to find your best angles, expressions, and overall look.
• Comfortable: I guide you through the session so you’re never left wondering what to do.
• Fun (yes, fun!): Most clients tell me afterward, “That was way easier than I expected.”

You don’t need to be photogenic or experienced in front of the camera. You just need someone who knows how to bring out your best.

If You’re Hesitating, I Get It

If you’ve been putting off new headshots because you’re worried you won’t like the way you look—let’s talk. I’ll take the time to understand your concerns, guide you through the session, and make sure you’re thrilled with the results.

I help professionals look like their best selves: confident, approachable, and ready to take on the next big opportunity.

Ready to Book?

I photograph headshots throughout the Los Angeles area, with offices in Venice, Santa Monica, and Culver City. I also travel regularly for on-location company headshot events.

Call or text 323-493-2552 to book your session.
Let’s create something great together.

Celebrating 23 Years in Los Angeles

Today marks 23 years since I packed up my life in Colorado and drove west to chase a dream. Fresh out of college, I moved to Los Angeles with the goal of working in the entertainment industry—and what an incredible journey it’s been.

From Extra to the Academy Awards

In my early years in LA, I dove into every opportunity I could find. I worked as a production assistant, an assistant, a coordinator, and even spent time on set as a background extra. (Fun fact: You can spot me in the 13 Going on 30“Thriller” scene—Judy Greer hands me her drink before heading to the dance floor. Yes, really!)

One of the most surreal highlights of my entertainment career was working the Academy Awards for ABC. The energy, the production scale, the sheer star power—it was unforgettable. The photo I’ve included is from the after-party that night, and it still reminds me of how lucky I was to be part of that world.

Finding My Passion in Photography

Roughly a decade ago, I discovered something unexpected: my true passion was behind the camera. I began my journey as a professional photographer and gradually carved out my niche in headshot photography.

LA, with all its creative energy and constant evolution, turned out to be the perfect place for this new chapter. It’s a city that invites reinvention—if you’re open to growth, willing to pivot, and ready to keep showing up, doors will open.

Looking Ahead—and Giving Back

Now, as a headshot photographer based in Los Angeles, I get to help others put their best face forward—whether they’re actors, business professionals, or fellow creatives just beginning their journey. There’s something rewarding about helping people feel confident and seen.

If you’re in LA and need a fresh headshot — give me a call at 323-493-2552 to schedule a photography session.

Thanks for being part of the ride. Here’s to what’s next.

—

#LAversary #LifeInLA #HeadshotPhotographer #CreativeJourney #Gratitude #LosAngelesLife

Busy Behind the Scenes: Headshots, Edits & a Short Film

Just a quick behind-the-scenes update to share what’s been going on lately—because even though it’s been a little quiet here on the blog, I’ve been anything but idle.

The past month or two have been packed with headshot sessions and long (but fun) hours spent editing images. It’s been a busy season, and I’m incredibly grateful for it. I’ve had the chance to work with some truly fantastic people and companies, and each project has brought something unique to the table.

Some recent highlights include:

• A team at a local doctor’s office in Century City refreshing their website and marketing materials
• A lawyer stepping into a new role at a prestigious law firm (also in Century City) and needing a headshot that matched the next chapter in their career
• A growing Santa Monica tech startup that brought me in to photograph their expanding team for their site and investor materials
• A talented Los Angeles marketing professional celebrating a new job with a personal brand refresh

What I love most about this work is getting to see the confidence boost that a great headshot can bring. Whether someone’s launching a business, starting a new job, or simply updating their online presence, there’s something powerful about presenting yourself well—and I’m honored to help people do just that.

Stepping Outside the Box

In addition to headshots, I also had the opportunity to step a bit outside of my usual routine and dive into a creative side project. I recently worked on a short film with an established TV writer, as the camera man. I don’t shoot video nearly as often as I shoot stills, but this was an energizing change of pace and a chance to stretch my creative muscles. Collaborating on set with other storytellers reminded me how much I love working in visual media—whether it’s for a film, a brand, or a professional portrait.

Let’s Work Together

Whether you’re part of a company that needs fresh, cohesive headshots across your team or an individual stepping into a new professional season, I’d love to help bring your image to life. My goal is always to create headshots that look professional and feel authentic—images that represent you at your best.

Sessions can take place on-location at your office or at one of my convenient LA locations in Santa Monica, Culver City, or Venice. I make the process easy and comfortable, even for folks who say they “hate being in front of the camera.” (Trust me, you’re not alone.)

Ready to book? Call or text me at 323-493-2552 to schedule your session.

Let’s create something great together.

– Steven Hankins

#Headshots #PersonalBranding #LosAngelesPhotographer #BusinessPhotography #Marketing #StartupLife #NewJob #CreativeProjects