Hi! How are you doing?

I see you’ve booked a consultation with me and I’m looking forward to a chance to chat with you! But first, you’re probably wondering what exactly to expect out of a consultation and how to make the most of our time together. Personally, I like to go into every new situation with as much information about what to expect as possible. Since you’ve found your way to this blog, maybe you do too. No need to search further - because I’m about to break down what information we cover in a consultation and the many different ways clients have used this time to ensure success in their headshots with me.

Let’s break the ice

First and foremost, a consultation is an excellent way to break the ice. When we’re in my studio, time is a limited resource that doesn’t leave much room for socializing. If you feel a little awkward jumping directly into a somewhat-emotionally-vulnerable work session, then scheduling time with me beforehand is a great way to make introductions. I benefit from ice-breakers too! Maybe we have a lot in common, in which case I’m even more excited to take fantastic headshots with you! Generally, it’s just nice to put a face to each others’ names before we begin shooting. By the time we’re working together, we have a rapport and can pick up where we left off. Also, it’s helpful for me to get a sense of your personality ahead of time and I may even shift the way I run my session to be accommodative to you!

Go over small details

Something I like to use consultations for is to go over the minutia of what it actually means to book an appointment with me. I’ll give a brief step-by-step overview of the entire process from booking to receiving final headshots just so there are no surprises if you do decide to book with me. Often, the anxiety that holds us back from committing to something is just because we don’t know what to expect or can’t picture the entire process. My main goal during a consultation is to demystify my work and make sure you have all of the information you need to be successful during our appointment. In these consultations, I think it’s important for us both to set expectations for each other. Since my clients are spending the time and money to book an appointment with me, I expect a certain level of preparation that I am always happy to break down and help with. Likewise, I want my clients to have an opportunity to go over their expectations for me. It’s a wonderful way to be on the same page before a shoot begins.

Ask questions!

When we’re on a consultation call, my time is yours. Ask questions! I work with many clients who have had plenty of headshots taken before and many more who have never done any professional photo shoots at all. There is no such thing as a silly question! Remember, I’m here to alleviate any anxiety you may have, so ask me about those tiny things that may or may not matter. I’ve had clients make specific requests, ask for advice on picking outfits, and I’ve even designed special packages for different needs. I’m always happy to talk through branding and help clients pinpoint exactly what they want to focus on during their headshots.

Let’s make a plan

When taking headshots, it’s important to me that my clients feel comfortable, safe, and excited about the work we’re doing together. Education is also an extremely important aspect of my work as well. Being transparent and available as a resource to anyone interested in working with me is a big part of what sets us both up for a successful session. Whether you were on the fence, vibe-checking a few photographers, or completely ready to book and just want to make a plan, a consultation is a great way to communicate any of your needs and intentions. Come say hi!