I offer two distinct headshot styles to choose from – studio-style and environmental. Understanding the differences between these two styles and their benefits will help you make an informed decision about which style(s) best suits your needs.
Studio Style Headshot Styles
Studio-style headshots are taken in a light controlled environment, usually with a plain background and studio lighting. This style of headshot is ideal for those who want a clean and professional look that draws the attention to your face. You can choose to have your headshot photographed on a white, black or grey backgrounds (other colors available on request for an additional fee).
Studio headshots are great for individuals who want to have more control over the background, and overall appearance of their headshot. In a studio environment, I have full control over the lighting, which will allow me to sculpt your face and body better than with an environmental headshot.
Additionally, studio style headshots allow me to create a seamless look on white and black background websites or social platforms. This means that I can craft your headshot so the background will seamlessly blend from the background of your headshot to the background of your website or social feed. Note how the black background headshot above blends into the background of this website as described.
If you like this look and can only afford one photo from your session. I recommend having your headshot captured on a white background since most websites and social media platforms will have a white background. Thus choosing to have your headshot captured on white will make your profile photo look seamless on social platforms like Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn as well as any white background website.
When I create headshots for myself, I personally like to create studio style headshots on white black and grey backgrounds. This way I have a profile photo ready to go for pretty much any circumstance.
Ring Light Headshots
Looking for a headshot that’s modern, striking, and memorable? Consider a ring light style headshot. This unique and dramatic effect can only be achieved as part of a studio-style headshot session, using my custom-built 4ft by 4ft, 28 bulb ring light.
Not only are ring light headshots well-lit, but they also create striking and completely unique catchlights in the eyes. This makes them perfect for those looking to make a bold impression in creative fields or for those wanting a truly memorable headshot.
If you’re interested in this style, simply let me know when you book your session. I’ll be happy to discuss the details with you and help you achieve this look.
Space Requirements for Studio Style Headshots
To create studio portraits at your location, we need a clear area that’s at least 12 feet wide, 14 feet long, and 8 feet tall. If you have more space, higher ceilings and better control over lighting, I can get even better results, but if not, that’s okay as long as you’re okay with the resulting style. Basically, if you have enough space for a car in your garage, that’s likely a great spot for me to bring the studio to you! Living rooms also make good spaces for my mobile studio as you can see from this post.
Environmental Headshots Style
Environmental headshots, by contrast, are taken in a more natural setting, such as a park, a local street, or even around the campus of an office. Basically with this style of headshot, I create a portrait for you in the natural environment, providing a more relaxed and casual feel.
The advantage of doing a headshot with this method is that it’s cheaper because you won’t incur any mobile studio setup fees. You’ll also get a unique looking headshot since part of the style is the unpredictability of the background!
A downside of environmental headshots is that they should probably be photographed the hour before sunset or the hour after sunrise for the best lighting opportunities outside. During these times, the sun is low and warm which will provide an additional light source and will add extra depth to your headshot.
When choosing a location for an environmental headshot, the environment of your workplace or even the interior of your office can add additional context to your headshot. If those options are unavailable to you, an outdoor location such as a park other downtown location will work great!
Studio Style vs Environmental Headshot Styles Which is Better?
In conclusion, both studio-style and environmental headshots have their own unique benefits and can be used for a variety of purposes. Studio-style headshots provide a clean and professional look, while environmental headshots provide a more relaxed and personal feel.
Ultimately, the choice between the two styles comes down to personal preference and the goals for the headshot. If you need help deciding which style is right for you, I’m here to provide guidance and advice. You can get in touch here and tell me a little bit about your intended session and I’ll help you figure out what would be best for you.
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