PREPARING FOR YOUR SESSION
The collaboration starts now.
A world-class headshot isn't just "taken" - it's built. It's a collaboration between my lighting and direction, and your preparation and energy.
I handle the technical side to make you look powerful, marketable, and approachable. Your job is to arrive rested, organized, and ready to connect with the camera.
Follow these guidelines so we spend our time shooting great looks, not fixing wardrobe issues.
Haven't scheduled your consultation call yet?
If you're booked for an Actor Headshot or Personal Branding session, we'll cover your goals, wardrobe, and what to expect together beforehand.
Wardrobe Strategy
Fit, color, layers.
Don't bring clothes you "kind of" like. Bring the items that make you feel invincible when you put them on.
The Golden Rule: If it looks good in the mirror and it makes sense for your profession or character type - bring it.
Solid over Pattern: Heavy patterns distract from your eyes. Rich, solid colors (navy, charcoal, forest green, deep burgundies, black) always win.
Variety is Key: Bring a mix of necklines - crew neck, V-neck, button-down, blazer. This maximizes the usability of your portfolio across different platforms.
Accessories: If you wear glasses, jewelry, or a watch day to day, bring them. We'll shoot some looks with them for authenticity and some without, so you have both options.
Reference Looks: If you have a photo of a headshot, portrait, or look you admire, send it over ahead of time or bring it with you - it gives me a concrete direction to work from instead of guessing at your taste.
Steam & Prep: I have a steamer in the studio, but do your best to iron or steam everything the night before, and hang your pieces properly for transport.
2. Grooming & skin
Be the best version of your current self.
The goal of retouching is to remove temporary distractions, not permanent features. I want you to look like you on your best day.
Hair
Arrive with your hair styled the way you love it. Bring your products and brushes for mid-session tweaks. If you need a cut or color, do it 3-5 days before the shoot so it settles.
Skin
Hydrate aggressively for the 24 hours leading up to the session. Don't try a new intense facial treatment the day before - it often leads to redness.
Makeup
Makeup (if applicable): Keep it clean and natural - "daytime best." It's easier to add more later than to take it off.
The 5 o'clock shadow: If you want both looks, come with the scruff - you can shave mid-session at the studio.
3. Logistics & mindset
Low stress equals high-quality images.
Rushing kills creativity. My studio workflow is built to be efficient, so all you need to do is arrive ready to have fun and jump in.
The night before: Get sleep. Alcohol and high-sodium foods show up in your face the next day as puffiness - avoid them.
Arrival: Arrive 5-10 minutes early to exhale, hang up your clothes, and get settled.
Studio location: Midtown Manhattan, around 38th and 8th Avenue. Let me know if you'd like parking recommendations.
Need to reschedule? Reach out as soon as you know - full details are in the Studio Terms.
Trust the process: You don't need to know how to model - you just need to listen and collaborate.
I'm looking forward to having you in the studio. Prepare well, pack the night before, and show up ready to work. I'll handle the rest.
- Sean Turi