MUST HAVES for Headshot Photography
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Hey there, fellow photographers and enthusiasts! Today, I'm excited to delve into a topic that's been gaining traction in my photography journey: headshot photography. So, grab your gear and get ready to explore what it takes to capture stunning headshots that not only enhance your portfolio but also bring in a steady stream of income. But before we dive in, a quick shoutout to our sponsor, Squarespace. Let's get started!
My Journey and the Potential of Headshot Photography Let me be honest upfront - headshot photography hasn't been my primary focus throughout my 20-year career in the wedding and portrait photography industry. I mean, I've only been doing it for around five or six years. But hey, I've got to admit, it's incredibly rewarding and profitable. And today, I'm here to show you what it takes to nail a headshot session like a pro.
The Core Camera Gear Alright, let's start with the basics. You're going to need a camera. Yes, I know, it sounds like a no-brainer, but trust me, it's the foundation of your whole setup. But here's a nugget of wisdom: never leave for a professional shoot without a backup camera. Seriously, it's a lifesaver. Whether it's your trusty old camera or a smaller, more affordable one, having a backup can be the difference between a smooth session and a potential disaster.
For me, I've found a sweet spot with my Canon R5 for headshot sessions. I wish I could show it to you right now, but alas, we're using it to record this very video. However, let's not forget about the lens - oh boy, lens choice is like picking the perfect accessory for your outfit. It's a personal decision, and it's often influenced by the space you're working in. If you've got a studio or a familiar location, your lens choice becomes a breeze. But if you're heading into uncharted territory, that's where things might get a bit tricky.
Navigating the Lens Landscape So, let's talk about lenses, shall we? My go-to lens for headshot sessions is the RF 70-200mm. It's not just about its undeniable beauty (and expense), but it's a lifesaver when space is tight. Now, ideally, I'd be shooting around 50 to 70mm for headshots, but this lens truly comes to the rescue if I find myself squeezed for space. It's a top contender in my arsenal.
However, my all-time favorite lens for headshots is the RF 85mm, or really, any 85mm lens that's up to the task. I've had this lens by my side for over a decade, and you can see its magic on my website, vanessajoy.com. The 85mm gives me the perfect balance - it's not overly compressed like some lenses, but it's not so wide that it distorts the features. It's perfect for classic poses, ensuring arms don't look disproportionately large, which is always a plus.
The Great Lens Debate and Other Options Alright, I know I've been raving about my preferred lenses, but let's not forget that everyone has their own lens preference. Some photographers swear by the 70-200mm lens for headshots, and if that's your jam, go for it. But for me, it's not my safety net. I'm all about the RF 20-70mm for that extra flexibility and pairing it with my beloved 85mm. It's a combination that just works.
Oh, and did I mention the 50mm f/1.2 lens? Yep, some folks swear by this lens for headshots, and I've got one in my kit too. It's always good to have options, right?
Let's Shed Some Light on the Matter Now, let's talk about lighting and backgrounds. If you're lucky enough to know your shoot location will have a white wall, great! But if you're stepping into the unknown, let me introduce you to my lifesavers - the Savage backdrops. These babies are a game-changer. They're portable, easy to set up, and they come in various colors. Personally, I'm a fan of white and gray, as they offer the versatility to adapt to any lighting situation.
Speaking of lighting, let's get into the nitty-gritty of setting up your lights. Trust me, getting the lighting right is like nailing the perfect recipe - it's an art and a science.
Creating the Perfect Lighting Setup Alright, time to roll up your sleeves and get those lights in place. The backdrop is your canvas, so we start there. I recommend two lights pointed at the backdrop to ensure it's evenly lit. Thanks to my friend Seth Miranda, I've got this technique down to a science. But here's the trick - these lights need to be more powerful than the ones lighting your subject. It's all about balance.
For the main event - your subject's face - I'm all about soft, flattering light. That's why I love using an umbrella. It's like the swiss army knife of lighting modifiers. It's large, it's soft, and it creates a beautiful, even light that's perfect for classic headshots. Plus, it's easy to set up and works wonders in a pinch.
Reflecting on Reflectors and Additional Lighting Now, you might be thinking, do I really need a reflector? Well, let me tell you, it's a game-changer. I usually bring along the Adorama Glow 5-in-1 reflector, and it's a steal at around 30 bucks. This little tool can work wonders in filling in shadows and adding that extra touch of magic to your shots. And if you're flying solo without an extra set of hands, the Manfrotto TriFlip is a great option - it's like having your own portable assistant.
Stands, Stands, and More Stands Ah, the unsung heroes of our setups - light stands. I'm all about the Manfrotto stackables, these 12-foot wonders are sturdy and versatile. And don't forget those sandbags! Safety first, folks. And, of course, a bit of gaffer tape to keep everything in place. It's the little things that make a big difference, trust me.
An Extra Flash of Brilliance And just when you thought we covered it all, here's a little bonus. Sometimes, I like to have an extra flash on hand that I can easily attach to my camera. It's like my secret weapon for those moments when I need a touch of fill light. This little guy bounces off walls and adds that extra oomph to the shot. It's not always necessary, but boy, does it come in handy.
Tethering and Streamlining the Process Alright, time for the magic touch - tethering. Now, this might not be a must-have for everyone, but let me tell you, it's a game-changer. I tether my camera to Lightroom or Capture One, and it's like having a superpower. Clients get to see their shots in real-time, pick their favorites, and we're good to go. No more back-and-forth after the shoot. It's efficient, it's streamlined, and it's pure gold for your workflow.
Wrapping Up And there you have it, my friends - a comprehensive guide to my must-haves for successful headshot photography. I hope this journey through gear and techniques has given you some insights and inspiration. If you found this blog helpful, don't forget to hit that like button and subscribe for more content. If you have any questions or feel like I missed something, drop a comment below, and let's keep the conversation going. Until next time, keep capturing those stunning headshots and making your mark in the world of photography!
