What should I wear for my business portrait?

Recommended:
• Dark solid colors usually work the best.
• Suit coat, sport coat that fits well, snug is usually better than oversized.
• Medium color or pastel solid shirt or blouse. (Not white or striped)
• Extra starch on your shirt helps avoid folds and wrinkles.
• Simple tie, not too bold or busy. (optional)
• Simple accessories. (optional)
• Wear powder to reduce shine. Bring more to your sitting or we have some as well.
• Bring makeup and hair-care products for touchups and styling.
• Hair roots can be very noticeable in a portrait, so if you color your hair, a root touchup is a good idea.
• Trim any long hairs from eyebrows, nose, and ears.
• Bring 2-3 outfits and I can help you choose one.
• If raining, bring an umbrella to prevent rain drops on clothes and hair issues.
NOT Recommended:
• White shirt. Reflected light will emphasize a double chin and cast a glow under your jawline.
• Gray suit coat, if the background will be grey, which is common.
• Shirt without a coat. (A plain dress shirt tends to show many folds and wrinkles.)
• Busy patterns like houndstooth and bold stripes. (These are distracting and can cause a moiré effect.)
• Short sleeves and sleeveless tops. (These can cause problems with cropping.)
• Bold colors that will detract from your face.
• Crew-neck undershirt. The bright white steals the attention from your face.
• Three-button coat without a tie. The higher cut works better with a tie. (Same tip for double-breasted suits.)
• See note below about eyeglasses.

Can I wear eye glasses for my portrait?

Yes, you may wear glasses for your headshots, but they can be a challenge for a good portrait. The key to a good portrait is capturing the eyes, and eyeglasses can distort or darken them, and cause unwanted reflections. Of course, we will make it work though if you prefer to be photographed with your glasses.

How should I do my makeup?

The bright studio lights tend to minimize makeup, so it’s a good idea to wear a little more than you normally do. The most common problem is shine, so use plenty of powder and bring more powder with you. Hair spray or gel is recommended to reduce stray hairs and frizzies. Try to avoid shiny lip gloss… the reflection can create unwanted hot spots.

Do you provide clothing?

No, you will need to bring clothing. I recommend bringing a few outfits, even if we don’t use them all. I can help you choose the best option. We do have spare ties, just in case you forget.

How many photos will I get?

We normally take about 15-30 shots of each look. You get all of them! Most packages retouching on at least one photo.

Do you provide makeup or hair services?

No, but Gene Juarez is close by at 206-326-6000.

Do you take credit cards?

Yes

Where are you located?

Please see the Location page.

What are your hours?

Only by appointment. Please click ‘Book an Appointment’ on the menu above to see availability and book a time.

How soon can I get an appointment?

I can usually get you in within a day or two, sometimes even the same day! Weekends book up quickly, so allow more advance notice for that.

How do I make an appointment?

Please click ‘Book an Appointment’ on the menu above to see availability and book a time.

Do you offer a satisfaction guarantee?

I want everyone to be happy with their photos, and may do another shoot, free of charge, depending on the circumstances.

Is there a cancellation charge?

Yes, if you cancel less than 24 hours before your shoot, there is a 25% cancellation charge. However, this can be waived if you reschedule within 2 weeks, and pre-pay for your appointment. For on-site appointments, 48 hours notice is required.

I don’t like getting my picture taken. I’m not photogenic.

You are not alone. The majority of our clients do not think they are photogenic, but most end up saying “Wow, that was kind of fun” and “These are the best photos of me I’ve ever seen!”

Do you do photo retouching?

Yes. Most packages include basic retouching (blemishes, softening wrinkles and lightening bags under the eyes, teeth whitening, stray hairs, lint). There is an additional charge for advanced retouching.

Do you offer any discounts or specials?

Yes, I offer a 50% discount (maximum of $50) on most packages for active military, and those on government assistance, including unemployment. Proof of eligibility is required to receive the discount. I occasionally run specials for LinkedIn and Facebook members. This may not be combined with other discounts.

Do you validate parking?

No, I’m sorry we do not validate because prefer to keep our rates as low as possible. If you want to use public transportation, we are only one block from the Symphony light rail station and close to many bus lines stops.

Do you take passport photos or green card photos?

Yes, we offer custom sizes and quality lighting. Please see the passport photos page.

Can I read some reviews?

Sure, you can see reviews by recent clients on the booking page.

I have a question that’s not answered here.

Please contact us from the Location page on the menu. Email and text messages get faster responses than voicemail.