professional:
pro·fes·sion·al
adjective
relating to or belonging to a profession, looking the part
Hey I'm Janel
I'm a Virginia based adventure photographer.
Hey Friends, My name is Janel and I am so glad that you have made it to this page. Let's start off with a little about me. The most important part of picking your photographer is finding someone you can vibe with. Here we go! I am a huge advocate for all-day coffee. Yassss! If I can get away with wearing pajamas believe I am going to do it. My best friend is my dog, yeah he is a little spoiled. I love eating potatoes any kind of way you could imagine, Being outdoors in nature surrounded by wilderness is my favorite thing. I have never felt more at peace than I do when I am by myself in nature, exploring new areas. It is truly my happiest place. I am a huge introvert and need time to myself to reset. I am such a nerd and love laying around reading a good book. I love watching funny TV sitcoms like Friends, New Girl, and Schitt's Creek. Well enough about me, let's get to the part that is all about you. I can't wait to get to know you!
Thank you for choosing me for your headshot/portrait session! This guide will help you to plan for all aspects of your photoshoot. I love shooting headshot sessions. I believe that headshots should never be boring and that your headshot should reflect what is amazing and special about you as a person. My approach is very organic. I take the time to get to know each of my clients and find out exactly what you want your headshots to say about you and your life’s work. I pose people naturally and draw out real, meaningful expressions. I am excited to meet you!
Planning
When planning your headshot portraits with me, first decide what you want your headshots to say about you. Then, take a moment to look through some headshot pictures on Pinterest and decide what “feel” you would like your session to have. If we haven’t yet chosen a location, ask yourself, "Do I like the casual feeling of a natural space? Do I like an urban vibe? Would I like some of each?” I can do anything your heart desires. (Note that some locations may require us to pay for a permit.) I love to coordinate clothing with locations and backdrops, so we will consult either on the phone or through email to plan the style and colors of your photographs. Later in this guide, I will share tips and inspiration for what to wear, how to pose, and what to expect during and after your session.
Uses for Professional Headshots
There are so many ways for you to use these images and I cannot recommend them enough.. Don't think these are only for business people either. College and high school students can use them to update their social media profiles as most jobs are checking these prior to hiring. Updating your resume can give you an edge over others as more professional. You can use them to update your LinkedIn account, which is a great place to find a job. Entrepreneurs need images of themselves to paste all over social media and their website. More and more people are wanting to see the face behind the business and grow a real connection. Companies use them for awards, recognitions, and rank advancements. They can also be used in promotional materials for whatever may be needed. You can even use them as gifts for your parents after you have moved out, I am sure they would love a picture of your face. One other thing worth mentioning is not to get hung up on is how most of the headshots I am sure you have seen look superposed and stiff, like for an office building. I recognize that not every job has the need for headshots that look like that. We will come up with a super specialized plan for your session. If you are a cook let's get some of you at work in the kitchen. For instance, I am a photographer and most of my headshots are fun with me laughing and playing around.
What is a portrait session?
What is an Adventure Portrait Session?
A portrait session is basically a gloried selfie session. You deserve to celebrate yourself. We can really get to show who you are in fun new ways. Bonus since it is just you that gives us the opportunity to really make it all about you. Here you can dream as big as you want! An adventure session is a little more intense version of the regular portrait session. This is where you can get some really unique shots by going to a further, more secluded location. Whether it be hiking, traveling, rock wall climbing, or even just walking a really long way. This extra time will allow us to go further off the beaten path. That is where the real magic happens!
What to Expect
I want you to fully know what you are getting yourself into before you book. In this session, I will make you feel like a ROCKSTAR! This moment in time is all about you and you truly deserve it. We will go over the look and feel of the session. Wardrobe, hair, makeup, and anything else you may want to discuss. We will pick a location suited to you and you alone. We will talk about your good side, body insecurities, and how freaking awesome you are. Then all you have to do is show up ready to go and leave the rest to me. Using my expertise I will put you in the most flattering light and poses. It's as easy as that.
Getting ready for your session
EVERYONE: Choose colors you know you look good in. If you aren’t sure, consult your family or friends, and also consider your eye color and skin tones. I usually suggest limiting patterns on clothes, though sometimes I like to break that “rule.” Medium shades or classic jewel tones photograph better than bright colors. Consider cream over the stark white.As far as fit, close to the body, or even slightly small (but not skin tight), is always more flattering to your shape than clothing that is loose or baggy. Don't go up a size if you are undecided - choose the smaller, more fitted option.I am always happy to preview your outfits via email before your session, and I will always suggest colors to you that I know will look good in our chosen locations. Iron out the wrinkles, and have your hair cut about 1 week before the session. Trim your nails, too so your hands look as good as the rest of you.
WOMEN: You can bring as many outfits as you want - we can narrow it down when you arrive. I suggest at least three, so we have choices for coordinating with our different backgrounds. Go for variety, but also consider what your line of work is and what message you want to send in your headshots. So, if appropriate, bring something more formal and dressy, something casual, and something in-between. Try a light-colored option, a darker one, and a jewel tone - plus a nice coat if we head outside and it’s cool out. I always tell people to look for flattering necklines that frame their faces well. Something to consider: most often long sleeves or sleeveless tops and dresses are more flattering than cap sleeves or short sleeves. Accessories and layers are a great way to add interest and color, too.
MEN: Bring two to three clothing options, and mix up the styles of each, depending on your line of work. Avoid big patterns or graphics unless it makes sense for you. Layers are always a great idea, for example adding a jacket, sweater, or vest. With dark shirts and sweaters, a black t-shirt is a great base layer instead of white.