Ever wonder what goes into prepping for a professional headshot session? It’s more than just showing up with a camera! For me, preparation is key to ensuring a smooth and successful shoot. Here’s a peek into how I need to prepare for my shoots:
1. Power Up: Fully charging camera and flash batteries is non-negotiable. I don’t want the batteries to go dead in the middle of a shoot.
2. Fresh Start: Wiping memory cards ensures ample space for all those perfect shots. I’ve had too many clients where I haven’t wiped the memory cards. This causes the client to have to wait longer while all of the photos load on my computer before importing them.
3. Safe & Sound: Backing up my hard drive is crucial. I don’t do this as often as a should and thankfully I haven’t lost many photos, so I need to do this more often.
4. Crystal Clear: A clean camera lens is essential for sharp, crisp images. Dust and smudges are the enemy of professional photography.
5. System Check: Turning the camera on and off, along with a quick test run, confirms everything is functioning correctly. I want to catch any potential issues before the client arrives. Thankfully I have two cameras in case one fails.
6. Flash Test: Syncing and testing my flash and trigger ensures proper lighting and avoids any unexpected surprises during the shoot. Consistent, flattering light is key.
In the end its about creating a relaxed and professional atmosphere.
Also, are you looking to update your headshots? Give me a call at 323-493-2552 to set up a photo session. I will travel throughout Los Angeles for photography clients. Plus, I have offices in Santa Monica, Venice and Culver City.
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As a professional headshot photographer, I take pride in providing an excellent experience for my clients—from booking to delivering the final edited images. To ensure my schedule stays organized and my time is respected, I require a non-refundable $100 deposit at the time of booking an individual headshot session, which also serves as a cancellation fee if a session is canceled within 24 hours. If a client gives at least 24 hours’ notice, I allow the deposit to go towards our future shoot.
This policy isn’t just about securing payment—it’s about creating a professional, reliable experience for both me and my clients. Here’s why it’s essential:
1. It Ensures Commitment
A headshot session is an investment in your professional self, and I want my clients to be fully committed to the process. When someone pays a deposit, they’re more likely to show up to their photo session because they’ve already made a financial commitment.
2. Last-Minute Cancellations Affect My Business
Photography is appointment-based, and each time slot is reserved specifically for that client. If someone cancels last minute, I often can’t fill that space on short notice, resulting in lost income and wasted time. A deposit helps ensure that my schedule stays on track and that last-minute cancellations are minimized.
3. My Time is Valuable
Just like my clients’ time is valuable, so is mine. Beyond the actual session, I spend time preparing for the shoot, setting up equipment, and editing photos afterward. A deposit acknowledges that work and ensures that my time is respected.
There was one time I was already on the road to meet a client at my office in Santa Monica when he texted me saying that he felt sick. That is fine because everyone gets sick, but why didn’t he text me the night before or earlier on in the morning. Plus, he never rescheduled and never gave me a deposit.
4. It’s a Fair and Flexible Policy
While the deposit is non-refundable, I offer flexibility for clients who need to reschedule. As long as they provide at least 24 hours’ notice, they can apply the deposit toward a future session. This way, clients aren’t penalized for legitimate scheduling conflicts, and I can still maintain a structured calendar.
5. It Creates a Smoother Booking Experience
Requiring a deposit sets clear expectations from the start. Clients know that their session is secured, and I know that they are serious about moving forward. This simple step eliminates confusion, prevents last-minute scheduling issues, and helps keep everything running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
A deposit is not just a payment—it’s a sign of commitment, respect for time, and a way to create the best experience possible for both myself and my clients. By implementing this policy, I’ve seen fewer cancellations, a more organized schedule, and clients who arrive ready to get the most out of their headshot session.
If you’re in Los Angeles and looking for a professional headshot—whether for yourself or your entire team—let’s connect! I have offices in Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City, and I can travel to your location anywhere in LA. Call 323-493-2552 to book your session today!
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Local SEO: The Secret Weapon for Brick-and-Mortar Businesses
As a headshot photographer, I know the power of a first impression. But before potential clients even see my work, they have to find me first. And in today’s digital world, that means mastering local SEO.
If you run a brick-and-mortar business, getting listed on Google My Business, Yelp, and other relevant platforms isn’t optional—it’s essential. Why? Because when people search for a service—whether it’s “headshot photographer in Santa Monica” or “law firms in Venice Beach”—Google prioritizes local businesses with complete, optimized profiles.
The Three Local SEO Must-Dos for Business Owners
So how do you make sure your business ranks high in local searches?
1. Claim & Optimize Your Google My Business Listing
Your Google My Business (GMB) profile is your online storefront. Ensure your address, hours, services, and website are accurate. Add high-quality photos (Google loves fresh content) and update your profile regularly.
2. Get Those 5-Star Reviews
Reviews aren’t just about reputation—they impact search rankings. Google favors businesses with consistent, positive reviews, so encourage happy clients to leave feedback. A simple follow-up email or friendly reminder can make a big difference!
3. Be Everywhere
Beyond Google, make sure you’re listed on Bing Places, Apple Maps, Nextdoor, and industry-specific directories (The Knot for wedding photographers, Avvo for attorneys, etc.). The more places your business appears, the higher your chances of being found.
The Power of Local SEO for My Photography Business
As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I’ve seen firsthand how strong local SEO can bring in clients. In fact, potential clients find me all of the time. I have office locations in Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City, but I also travel to clients throughout the LA metro area. By keeping my listings updated and gathering reviews, I make sure my business ranks when someone searches for “Los Angeles headshot photographer.”
To streamline my local SEO, I use Semrush’s local listing tool—it updates my business info across multiple directories at once, keeping everything accurate and consistent. Plus, it lets me upload new photos easily, which helps me stay visible and relevant.
Is It Time to Update Your Headshot?
If you’re optimizing your business’s online presence, don’t forget about your own personal branding! A professional headshot makes a lasting impression—let’s make sure yours represents you at your best.
Give me a call at 323-493-2552 to book your headshot session.
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