Thinking about booking your summer headshot appointment? It’s only natural! Summer can be a very busy time for headshot photographers.
Why is summer popular for headshots?
Many people take advantage of the warmer weather and the longer days to update their portfolio and freshen up their website with brand new headshots. Now that the Spring season is over, it is only a matter of time before theatre people start thinking about their next show. Drama majors in particular need to get their headshots done before school starts in the Fall.
Keep in mind that busier periods may mean a slightly longer turnaround time on your images or retouch requests. For all these reasons, it is really smart to get your summer headshot appointments booked early.
What about the special challenges of summer?
With the rising temperature come other rising concerns. Will it be TOO hot? TOO sunny? If you are trying to take your summer headshot in the middle of the day, those are very valid concerns! No one can look their best when they are shiny or downright sweaty. Direct sunlight causes squinting and harsh shadows, so very few photographers will tackle an outdoor shoot in direct sunlight. Dark raccoon eyes? No, thank you! If you are planning on a midday shoot, be sure to ask your photographer how they will combat these special challenges.
What about golden hour? As I discussed in a previous post, golden hour is my favorite time for portraits. But for most people, golden hour in the summer is TOO late in the day! For example, Sunset time on June 21st in Louisville Kentucky is 9:09pm, which means you would need to start a golden hour session around 8:00pm.
Are you in a summer stock theatre production such as the Kentucky Shakespeare Festival or The Stephen Foster Story, or one of the many "Theatre Under the Stars" productions at Pioneer Playhouse? You probably are going to be in rehearsals or performances at that time. Do you spend your days at the office? You may just be too tired and worn out to get started that late. Who looks good with dark under eye circles? No one I know!
So if you are planning on a golden hour shoot in the summer, make sure you drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest in the week leading up to the shoot. Truthfully, everyone, regardless of the season, or the day or time of their session, should be doing this. Dehydration and fatigue often go hand in hand, and they are both major contributors to under eye circles. They can also lead to other skin problems such as dry, flaky skin and (ironically) acne. Well hydrated skin is plump and glowing and looks its best!
What if it’s too late, your session is tonight, and you already have under eye circles? Try covering your eyes with a cold compress, cucumber slices, or cold black or green tea bags for about 15 minutes to reduce any puffiness and dark circles. And while professional makeup cannot cure dark under eye circles, it can go a long way towards concealing them! Does your photographer offer professional hair and makeup services? Be sure to ask!
Another important summer skincare tip is to wear sunscreen and avoid tanning (or burning!) leading up to your session. Not only is it bad for your skin, it is bad for your pictures. I understand that everyone likes to soak up the sun in the summertime, but remember it is important that your headshot looks like you. Unless you sport that suntan year round, six months from now you will be pale…and your sun-kissed headshots will seem fake.
Beat the Heat!
The easiest way to avoid the special challenges of too bright, too sunny, too hot, or too late are to book your summer headshot for the morning, before it gets too hot!
I opened my calendar for FIVE MORNING appointments this summer. That’s right – just five – because I plan to spend most of my summer playing with my kids while they are still kids! Two of those appointments are already booked, and I have three remaining spots.
Since we only get a few months of really great weather here in Louisville, let’s make the most of them by taking your headshots outside. That way when you’re looking at your headshot next winter you can see yourself surrounded by green grass, flowers, and natural sunlight!
Book your summer headshot now!
Headshot sessions are still available between 8am and 11am on the following dates: July 8, July 15, July 22. You will get a custom experience, location, and session tailored to you and your needs. Reserve your date for as little as $100 down, and pay the balance at the start of your session. Sessions start at $195 for a 30 minute session, and longer sessions are available.
Whether you are ready to book or you need more information to help you decide, please get in touch! I prefer a phone call because it’s more personal and easier than typing back and forth, but I am also open to chatting via email or text. I look forward to hearing from you!
Like and follow our Facebook page to be the first to know about upcoming events! The Proof Photography
Jill Nissen is an actor, a small business owner, and the mother of a child actor, so she knows the importance of a great headshot! As a proud member of the PPA (Professional Photographers of America), Jill is dedicated to excellence not only in photography, but also in exceeding customer expectations. Whether you are looking for a headshot photo session outdoors or in studio in ANY season, contact Jill for more information and a free consultation!
0 Comments