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

The Hand Test: My Go-To Trick for Perfect Outdoor Headshot Lighting

When it comes to headshot photography, especially outdoors, great lighting isn’t just important—it’s everything. Natural light can be beautiful, but it’s also unpredictable. As a headshot photographer working in the ever-changing light of Los Angeles, I’ve learned to adapt quickly. That’s why I rely on one simple, reliable technique every single time: the hand test.

Why Lighting Matters So Much

Lighting has the power to make or break a headshot. Harsh midday sun can cast deep shadows, accentuate wrinkles, or create unwanted shine. Backlighting can leave your subject looking like a silhouette. But soft, even lighting brings out skin tones naturally, flatters facial features, and makes your subject’s eyes shine—all of which you’d want in a professional headshot.

The Hand Trick: Fast, Reliable, and Client-Friendly

Before I ever ask a client to step into a shot, I hold out my hand and observe how the light hits my palm. If the light is soft, shadow-free, and evenly distributed, I know it will translate beautifully onto their face. If it’s too contrasty or harsh, I keep moving until I find just the right spot.

This simple test lets me dial in the best lighting before my client even steps in front of the lens. It saves time, minimizes awkward standing around, and keeps the entire experience relaxed and efficient. Clients appreciate that they’re not being shuffled from spot to spot while I guess and check—they can just step in, feel confident, and get the results they came for.

Shade Is Your Best Friend

Nine times out of ten, I’ll shoot in the shade. A wall, the side of a building, or even the edge of a tree line can provide soft, indirect light that wraps around the face beautifully. Shade offers consistent, flattering light without the need for bulky equipment or harsh reflectors. It also helps avoid squinting and keeps clients cool and comfortable—especially during those warm LA afternoons.

A Visual Example: What Bad vs. Great Light Looks Like

In the graphic that accompanies this post, the left side shows poor lighting conditions—backlit and shadowy, with uneven exposure. The right side shows what I look for: bright, balanced light that brings out natural skin tones and flattering detail. That’s the difference between a poor headshot and one that truly looks like it was shot by a professional.

Keeping Things Comfortable and Efficient

One of the reasons clients return to me again and again is because my process is smooth and efficient. I’m not just here to take your picture—I’m here to guide you through a relaxed, professional experience that doesn’t waste your time. Whether we’re shooting at your office, outdoors, or at one of my locations in Venice, Santa Monica, or Culver City, I come prepared to make the most of your session—down to the smallest detail, like testing the light with my hand.

Let’s Create Your Best Headshot Yet

If you’ve been putting off updating your headshot because you’re worried about the lighting, the look, or how the session will go—don’t. I’ve spent years refining my approach to make it quick, easy, and flattering for everyone, whether you’re a CEO, a startup founder, or updating your LinkedIn profile.

I shoot headshots across the LA area, with offices in Venice, Santa Monica, and Culver City, and I regularly travel for company-wide headshot events on location.

Call me at 323-493-2552 to schedule your session.
Let’s create something great together.

#HeadshotPhotography #OutdoorHeadshots #PhotographyTips #LightingMatters #BehindTheScenes #LosAngelesPhotographer #CorporateHeadshots #PersonalBranding #PortraitPhotography #PhotographerLife #BusinessPortraits #ProfessionalHeadshots #VenicePhotographer #SantaMonicaPhotographer #CulverCityPhotographer #Headshots

Client Spotlight: Nicholas Townsend | Los Angeles Automotive Product Specialist

I recently had the opportunity to photograph Nicholas Townsend, an experienced automotive product specialist based here in Los Angeles. Nick brings over a decade of expertise in live events, drive programs, and product education. He’s passionate about delivering engaging and informative vehicle experiences and thrives on connecting people with the latest in automotive innovation.

For Nick’s session, we shot at my Venice office at BLANKSPACES coworking — an incredible creative environment that used to be part of the original Snapchat campus. The location offers a mix of modern indoor spaces and outdoor areas full of natural light. It’s one of my favorite places to work with clients because of the backgrounds it offers, and the vibrant feel that really comes through in the photos.

About the Location: BLANKSPACES Venice

Our session with Nick took place at BLANKSPACES Venice — a creative and inspiring coworking space located in the heart of Venice, CA. Once part of the original Snapchat campus, BLANKSPACES offers a stylish mix of indoor offices, lounges, and beautiful outdoor courtyards perfect for photography sessions. Whether you’re looking for a clean, professional backdrop or a more relaxed, lifestyle vibe, this location provides plenty of versatile options. The energy of Venice combined with the innovative history of this space makes it a fantastic setting for headshots and branding photography.

Nick’s warm smile and easygoing energy made the shoot natural and effortless. His blue shirt was a perfect choice, highlighting his blue eyes and adding a bright, polished feel to his professional look. Beyond photographing well, Nick is someone I’ve personally worked with in automotive marketing projects — and he’s just as friendly, professional, and engaging in person as he appears in his photos.

If you’re ready to update your professional image, I’d love to help you create headshots that truly reflect your personality and brand. I offer photography sessions at my offices in Santa Monica, Venice (at BLANKSPACES coworking), and Culver City, and I’m available to travel throughout the greater Los Angeles area for on-location shoots.

Give me call at 323-493-2552 to book your session and Let’s make your headshots shine!

#HeadshotPhotography #LosAngelesPhotographer #VeniceCA #CorporateHeadshots #ProfessionalHeadshots #BLANKSPACESVenice #SantaMonicaPhotographer #CulverCityPhotographer #PersonalBranding #BusinessPhotography #OnLocationPhotography #StudioPhotography #CreativeSpacesLA