st louis corporate photography studio

Golden Hours and Key Considerations: What’s the Best Time of Day to Scout a Location for Video and Photography Production?

When planning a successful photo or video shoot, many variables come into play—creative vision, gear selection, crew coordination, and post-production logistics, to name a few. But one element that often gets overlooked by clients and even some creatives is the timing of the location scout. The time of day you choose to visit a site can drastically influence the outcome of your project, especially when working with natural light or planning indoor-outdoor transitions.

As experienced professionals at St Louis Locations, we know that optimal location scouting goes beyond GPS coordinates—it’s about understanding light, movement, atmosphere, and access. Let’s break down the best times of day to scout a location, depending on your production goals and creative needs.

1. Golden Hour: The Creative Favorite
The “golden hour” is that magic window just after sunrise and just before sunset. The sun is low in the sky, casting long, soft shadows and a warm, flattering glow. This is ideal for storytelling projects, interviews, lifestyle shoots, and any visual where mood, tone, and warmth are essential.

Best for:

Emotional or cinematic video content

Portrait and branding photography

Exterior interviews with a natural light look

Real estate and architectural features with golden highlights

Scout Tip: Visiting your location during golden hour reveals how shadows fall across the landscape or structures. It also helps identify lens flare issues, obstructive elements, and how reflective surfaces like glass or water interact with the light.

2. Midday: The Technical Time
While midday light (10 a.m.–2 p.m.) can be harsh and create unwanted shadows for talent, this time is incredibly useful for understanding a location’s peak brightness, foot traffic, and logistical realities.

Best for:

Scouting urban environments and public areas

Identifying power sources and equipment placement

Planning for diffusion needs or additional lighting gear

Assessing ambient noise, vehicle traffic, and pedestrian patterns

Scout Tip: If your shoot will happen during these hours, you’ll want to check for harsh shadows on faces, glare on surfaces, or reflective challenges that might require bounce cards, flags, or softboxes to manage.

3. Evening and Night: For Dramatic Visuals
If your project involves night scenes, LED signage, city lights, or a creative atmosphere that depends on darkness, scouting after sunset is essential. This is the time to evaluate existing lighting, understand safety concerns, and determine generator or battery pack requirements.

Best for:

Promotional nightlife content

Events or outdoor shoots with controlled lighting

Visuals requiring dramatic contrast or color lighting

Scout Tip: Pay attention to how artificial lighting interacts with your camera gear and color settings. Determine if nearby lighting fixtures (street lamps, parking lot lights, etc.) contribute to or detract from your scene.

4. Early Morning: For Quiet Access and Crisp Light
Sunrise isn’t just for beautiful imagery—it’s ideal for accessing busy locations before the crowds. Locations like parks, office buildings, or industrial facilities are often more available or visually quiet during early hours.

Best for:

Projects requiring clean, empty backgrounds

Establishing shots in urban or high-traffic environments

Drone flights in still, low-wind conditions

Scout Tip: Morning scouting helps identify dew, fog, or ambient sound differences that could affect sound quality and overall production efficiency. It’s also perfect for testing drone flights in wind-free airspace.

5. Why Scouting at Multiple Times Is Ideal
One of the most important strategies in professional media production is scouting a location at the same time of day you’ll be shooting. But in many cases, especially when working on tight timelines or variable lighting setups, it’s wise to scout the same location at more than one time of day.

This allows you to:

Plan for contingencies due to weather changes

Choose backup scenes if lighting is too harsh

Coordinate lighting gear or schedule shifts accordingly

Partner with Experts Who Know the Territory
At St Louis Locations, we’ve been guiding businesses, marketing teams, and creative agencies through location production since 1982. Our decades of experience ensure that every aspect of your visual project is dialed in for success—including strategic, timed scouting.

We are a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, offering:

Studio and location production with top-tier lighting setups

Drone services, including indoor drone flying capabilities

Custom interview studio builds, camera and sound operators

Post-production, editing, and AI-enhanced services

Support for all file types and media formats, including branded content that’s easy to repurpose across platforms

Our private studio is ideal for interviews and small sets, while our on-location services cover every production need—no matter the complexity or creative scope. Whether you need a tranquil sunrise shoot or a complex indoor drone scene, we provide the right gear, crew, and strategy to make your vision a reality.

St Louis Locations is more than a location scouting service—we’re your creative production partner.

Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

Location Permits? What You Need to Know Before You Shoot

When planning a professional photography or video production, one of the most critical steps is securing the right location permits. Whether you’re shooting in a public park, a historic site, or a private property, having the appropriate permits in place ensures a smooth and legal production process. Failure to obtain the necessary permits can result in fines, disruptions, or even legal action that could jeopardize your project. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what you need to know about location permits before you start your shoot.

Understanding the Importance of Location Permits

A location permit is a formal authorization that grants permission to film or photograph in a specific area. These permits are typically required by local government agencies, property owners, or regulatory bodies, depending on the location and type of production. They help regulate productions to ensure public safety, prevent disruptions, and protect property rights.

Without the necessary permits, your crew may be asked to leave mid-shoot, or worse, your company could face legal consequences that impact future projects. Whether you’re filming a commercial, a corporate video, or a marketing campaign, understanding permit requirements is essential for a seamless production.

When Do You Need a Permit?

Not all locations require a permit, but here are some common scenarios where permits are necessary:

Public Spaces: Parks, sidewalks, city streets, and government-owned properties often require official permission.

Private Property: Even if you have a relationship with a business owner, securing a formal agreement or contract is advisable.

Drone Filming: The FAA requires special authorization for commercial drone operations, especially in restricted airspace or near populated areas.

Large Crew or Equipment Setup: If your production involves large setups, tripods on sidewalks, or extensive lighting rigs, a permit may be required.

Special Effects or Public Interference: If your shoot involves pyrotechnics, smoke, loud noises, or street closures, additional permits and safety measures are often mandated.

Steps to Obtain a Location Permit

Research Local Regulations: Different cities, counties, and states have unique permitting processes. Contact the local film commission, city hall, or parks department for specific requirements.

Plan Ahead: Permit approvals can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Start early to avoid delays.

Submit an Application: Most applications require details such as shoot dates, crew size, equipment list, and potential disruptions (e.g., street closures).

Secure Liability Insurance: Many permit offices require proof of insurance to cover potential damages or accidents during the shoot.

Pay Permit Fees: Costs vary based on location, production size, and the type of shoot. Some cities charge a nominal fee, while others require substantial payments for high-impact productions.

Coordinate with Local Authorities: If your production involves street closures or special effects, you may need additional approvals from police, fire departments, or local officials.

Obtain Property Owner Permission: If shooting on private property, secure a signed location release form from the owner or management.

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Last-Minute Permit Issues: Always apply for permits well in advance and confirm approvals before setting a shoot date.

Unexpected Fees or Insurance Requirements: Budget for extra costs and have a flexible contingency plan.

Permit Denials: If a location is unavailable, consider alternative locations or adjust your creative vision to work within permitted areas.

How St Louis Locations Can Help

At St Louis Locations, we specialize in securing the right locations and permits for your commercial photography and video production needs. As a full-service professional photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew service experience to ensure successful image acquisition.

We offer full-service studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots to accommodate diverse media requirements. Our expertise in repurposing photography and video branding ensures your content gains maximum traction. Our team is well-versed in handling all file types, media styles, and accompanying software, making us the perfect partner for your next project.

For small productions and interview scenes, our private studio lighting and visual setup provide the ideal controlled environment. Our large studio space allows for creative set designs with props, while our custom interview studio setups ensure the highest quality production. Need sound and camera operators? We’ve got you covered. Looking for indoor drone footage? We can fly our specialized drones indoors for unique perspectives.

Since 1982, St Louis Locations has been the trusted partner for businesses, marketing firms, and creative agencies in the St. Louis area, providing top-tier marketing photography and video production services. Let us take care of the location details so you can focus on creating compelling visual content. Contact us today to discuss your next project!

Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

Checklist for Finding Ideal Locations for Your Marketing Videos

When planning a marketing video, the location plays a crucial role in the production’s overall effectiveness. Whether you’re shooting a corporate video, testimonial, or branded content, the right location sets the tone and elevates the quality of your visual storytelling. Deciding on the ideal location requires careful consideration of various factors that contribute to the message you wish to convey.

In this blog post, we’ll break down a checklist to help you find the perfect location for your next marketing video.

1. Identify the Purpose of Your Video
Before selecting a location, understand the objective of the video. Are you showcasing a product or service? Or are you telling a customer success story or building a company’s brand? Knowing the purpose of your video will help you select a location that complements the message.

For instance:

A product demo might require a clean, professional, and neutral environment.
A customer testimonial may benefit from a location that feels warm and personal.
An action-packed company profile may need an industrial setting to showcase the dynamic work environment.
2. Consider the Space’s Accessibility
Location accessibility is often overlooked but is crucial for smooth production. Ensure that the location is easy to access for your crew, talent, and equipment. Consider parking, loading zones for equipment, and any permits or permissions needed for filming.

It’s also worth checking for proximity to important amenities like catering or restrooms, especially for longer shoots.

3. Natural Light and Artificial Lighting Opportunities
Lighting can make or break your video. Depending on the mood you want to create, you might prefer natural light, or you may need to rely on studio lighting. When scouting locations, pay attention to the amount of natural light available and how it interacts with the space.

Additionally, assess if the location has sufficient space for your lighting setup and if it allows flexibility in adjusting lighting conditions. At St Louis Locations, we offer a private studio that’s designed to cater to a variety of lighting needs. We’ve also got the expertise to customize lighting setups for small productions and interview settings.

4. Background Noise and Acoustic Considerations
Consider the acoustics of your location. Unwanted background noise can be a major distraction and compromise your audio quality. Whether you’re shooting in a busy city environment or an industrial site, be mindful of potential noise issues. Test the sound before committing to the location to ensure the acoustics suit your production’s needs.

If you need a soundproof environment, St Louis Locations offers a custom-built studio where we have full control over noise and acoustics, providing an ideal space for video production.

5. Aesthetic and Brand Fit
Your location should reflect your brand’s identity and values. Whether you’re showcasing a modern, clean space or a more industrial environment, make sure it aligns with the look and feel of your brand.

Take into account:

The color palette of the space.
The presence of any distracting elements.
How the surroundings will enhance your visual style.
St Louis Locations specializes in customizing spaces to match your brand’s visual identity. Whether you need a high-end corporate look or a rustic, natural setting, we’ve got you covered.

6. Flexibility and Space for Custom Setups
Many corporate video productions, especially those involving interviews or dynamic product shots, require custom setups. Look for locations that offer flexibility in adjusting the space according to your needs. Can you bring in props, additional lighting, or modify the background to match your vision?

Our private studio at St Louis Locations offers the space and flexibility to design custom setups, perfect for small productions or interviews. We can incorporate props to round out your set, allowing your creative vision to come to life.

7. Indoor Drone Capabilities
Sometimes, the perfect shot requires a drone. Flying drones indoors requires specialized equipment and experience. Make sure the location allows for drone operations and offers enough space for safe flying. At St Louis Locations, we have the unique capability to fly specialized drones indoors, allowing for stunning aerial shots even in confined spaces.

8. Cost and Budget
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of your location. The more complex the setup, the higher the cost might be. Be sure to take into account the location rental fee, any permits required, and the cost of transportation for crew and equipment.

At St Louis Locations, we provide full-service video and photography production, handling all aspects of the process, including location scouting, permits, and more. We can work with you to find a location that fits within your budget while still achieving the desired production value.

Why Choose St Louis Locations for Your Video Production Needs?
As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, St Louis Locations has been providing exceptional location services since 1982. Our experienced crew is well-versed in all aspects of video production, from scouting locations to repurposing photography and video content for greater branding traction.

We offer:

Full-service studio and location video and photography.
Professional editing, post-production, and licensed drone pilots.
Customizable solutions for diverse media requirements.
Expertise in all file types, media styles, and software.
Whether you need a private interview setup, sound and camera operators, or specialized equipment, we’ve got everything to make your next video production perfect. Our private studio is designed for a range of productions, from small interviews to larger corporate shoots, and we have the ability to fly drones indoors for unique perspectives.

Let St Louis Locations help you find the ideal location and deliver a seamless, successful video production. Contact us today to get started!

Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

Capture Every Moment: A Guide to Event Photography and Videography

In the realm of business and organizational communications, the significance of high-quality photography and videography cannot be overstated. Capturing moments at events—whether they are corporate functions, product launches, or community gatherings—can play a crucial role in storytelling, brand building, and audience engagement. As decision-makers in photography and video production, understanding the nuances of event coverage will empower you to make informed choices that elevate your brand’s visual narrative.

The Importance of Event Photography and Videography
Event photography and videography serve as powerful tools for documentation and promotion. They encapsulate the atmosphere, emotions, and interactions of your events, creating a visual archive that can be utilized across various platforms.

High-quality visuals are essential for:

Brand Visibility: Engaging images and videos enhance your brand’s presence on social media, websites, and marketing materials, increasing reach and engagement.

Audience Connection: Authentic visuals foster a sense of connection with your audience. They showcase the human side of your brand, promoting relatability and trust.

Event Promotion: Well-captured moments can be repurposed for future marketing campaigns, showcasing the success of past events and encouraging attendance at future gatherings.

Internal Communications: For corporate events, capturing key moments can be invaluable for internal newsletters and reports, fostering a sense of community and pride among employees.

Preparing for Event Coverage
Successful event photography and videography begin with thorough preparation. Here are some key steps to consider:

1. Define Your Objectives
Identify the purpose of the event and the specific moments you want to capture. Are you highlighting a product launch? Focusing on networking opportunities? Understanding your goals will guide your coverage approach.

2. Select the Right Team
Partnering with a skilled photography and videography team is crucial. Look for professionals who understand your vision and can adapt to the event’s dynamics. An experienced team will be able to capture moments discreetly and creatively.

3. Scout the Location
Conducting a location scout is essential for understanding the venue’s layout, lighting conditions, and potential backdrops for your shots. This step allows you to identify the best angles and plan for any challenges, such as lighting inconsistencies or crowded spaces.

4. Equipment Considerations
Ensure your team is equipped with the right gear for the event. High-quality cameras, lenses, drones for aerial shots, and proper lighting setups are essential for capturing every detail effectively. It’s also important to have backup equipment ready in case of technical issues.

Capturing the Event
During the event, flexibility and creativity are key. Here are some strategies for capturing memorable moments:

1. Candid Shots
Candid photography captures authentic emotions and interactions. Encourage your team to mingle with guests and capture unposed moments that reflect the event’s atmosphere.

2. Key Moments
Identify key moments in the event—such as speeches, awards, or special announcements—and ensure they are well-documented. These moments often hold the most significance and can be used in future marketing efforts.

3. Various Angles and Perspectives
Utilize different angles and perspectives to create a dynamic visual narrative. This can include wide shots that capture the overall atmosphere and close-ups that focus on individual expressions and details.

4. Post-Event Editing
Post-production plays a vital role in enhancing the final product. Professional editing ensures that the imagery and video reflect your brand’s quality standards. This includes color correction, sound editing, and incorporating graphics or branding elements.

Repurposing Content for Branding
One of the key advantages of event photography and videography is the ability to repurpose content across multiple platforms. Here’s how you can maximize the impact of your visuals:

Social Media: Create engaging posts and stories using event highlights to drive engagement and visibility.
Marketing Materials: Use high-quality images in brochures, websites, and newsletters to enhance your brand presence.
Internal Communication: Share event highlights with employees to foster a sense of belonging and pride in the company culture.
Why Choose St Louis Location Scout
At St Louis Location Scout, we understand the importance of capturing every moment that matters to your business. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have been serving the St. Louis area since 1982. Our extensive experience equips us with the skills and knowledge to deliver exceptional results tailored to your unique needs.

Our team utilizes cutting-edge equipment and creative expertise to ensure successful image acquisition. From full-service studio and location video and photography to editing, post-production, and licensed drone services, we provide comprehensive support for your productions. Our specialized drones can even fly indoors, allowing us to capture stunning aerial shots that set your content apart.

With a private studio lighting and visual setup, we are well-equipped for small productions and interview scenes, ensuring every detail is perfect. Our studio is spacious enough to incorporate props, rounding out your set for a professional look.

At St Louis Location Scout, we specialize in customizing productions for diverse media requirements, ensuring your visuals resonate with your audience. Let us help you repurpose your photography and video branding to gain more traction and maximize your impact.

In conclusion, investing in professional event photography and videography is a strategic decision that can significantly enhance your brand’s visibility and connection with your audience. With St Louis Location Scout by your side, you can be confident that every moment will be captured perfectly, helping to tell your brand’s story for years to come.

stlouislocations@gmail.com
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

Location Scouting Using Drones

For businesses and organizations looking to create impactful visual content, the right location is crucial. Drones have become an indispensable tool for capturing unique perspectives and for ensuring that the chosen location meets all the necessary criteria for a successful production.

Why Use Drones for Location Scouting?
Aerial Perspective: Traditional scouting methods are limited to ground-level views, which can obscure important elements like terrain, layout, and surrounding features. Drones provide an aerial perspective, allowing for a comprehensive understanding of the location. This bird’s-eye view can reveal opportunities and challenges that might not be visible from the ground, enabling better planning and creative decision-making.

Efficiency and Speed: Scouting a location manually can be time-consuming and may require multiple visits. Drones can quickly survey large areas, providing detailed visuals in a fraction of the time. This efficiency not only speeds up the scouting process but also reduces costs, making it easier to evaluate multiple locations in a single day.

Access to Hard-to-Reach Areas: Some locations may be difficult to access on foot, whether due to natural barriers or restrictions. Drones can easily navigate these areas, capturing footage that would otherwise be impossible to obtain. This capability is particularly valuable for productions that require remote or challenging environments.

Real-Time Data Collection: Drones equipped with advanced imaging technology can provide real-time data and high-resolution imagery, allowing decision-makers to assess locations on the spot. This immediacy ensures that any potential issues can be identified and addressed before they impact the production schedule.

Creative Opportunities: Beyond practical benefits, drones offer creative opportunities that can enhance the visual storytelling of a project. From sweeping panoramic shots to dynamic movements through landscapes, drones add a cinematic quality that elevates the overall production value.

Applications of Drone Scouting in Commercial Productions
Drones are not just for finding the right location; they are also used to plan shots, visualize scenes, and even conduct rehearsals. Here are some specific applications:

Pre-Visualization: Drones can capture footage that helps visualize how a scene will look before the actual shoot. This pre-visualization is useful for planning camera angles, movements, and transitions, ensuring that the final product meets the creative vision.

Virtual Tours: For clients who cannot physically visit the location, drones can create virtual tours. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing decision-makers to explore the location remotely and make informed choices.

Environmental Impact Assessments: Understanding the environmental conditions of a location is critical, especially for outdoor shoots. Drones can assess weather patterns, lighting conditions, and other environmental factors that might affect the production.

Safety Assessments: Safety is paramount in any production, and drones can be used to assess the safety of a location. By scouting potentially hazardous areas from the air, crews can plan accordingly and mitigate risks.

Conclusion
Location scouting is an essential step in the production process, and drones have revolutionized how it’s done. By providing aerial perspectives, increasing efficiency, and offering creative possibilities, drones are invaluable tools for any production company.

At St Louis Locations, we leverage the latest in drone technology to offer unparalleled location scouting services. As a full-service professional commercial photography and video production company, we have the right equipment and creative crew to ensure successful image acquisition. Our experience spans studio and location video and photography, editing, post-production, and licensed drone operations. We specialize in customizing productions for diverse media requirements, ensuring that your visual content not only meets but exceeds expectations.

Since 1982, we’ve worked with businesses, marketing firms, and agencies across the St. Louis area, providing tailored solutions that drive results. Whether you need a private studio setup, custom interview scenes, or specialized drone services, St Louis Locations has the expertise and resources to bring your vision to life. Let us help you create compelling visual content that resonates with your audience and achieves your goals.

stlouislocations@gmail.com

Cell 314-913-5626

Frequently asked questions of Location Scouting for a video production.

As a location scout for marketing video production, we encounter a variety of frequently asked questions. Here are some of the most common ones:

Availability and Scheduling:

Is the location available on the desired shoot dates?
Are there any restrictions on the time of day or duration we can use the location?

Cost and Permits:

What are the costs associated with using the location?
Are there any additional fees (cleaning, overtime, security)?
Do we need any permits to shoot here, and if so, how do we obtain them?

Access and Logistics:

How easy is it to access the location with our equipment?
Is there parking available for crew and talent?
Are there any loading docks or freight elevators if needed?

Technical Requirements:

Does the location have sufficient power outlets and capabilities?
What is the lighting situation like, both natural and artificial?
Are there any noise concerns or restrictions?

Facilities and Amenities:

Are there restrooms and dressing rooms available?
Is there a place for crew and talent to relax or eat during breaks?
Are there any catering facilities or nearby food options?

Aesthetics and Suitability:

Does the location fit the creative vision and aesthetic of the project?
Are there any customizable elements or restrictions on modifying the space?
Can we see photos or videos of previous shoots at this location?

Legal and Safety Considerations:

Are there any safety concerns or special requirements for the location?
What are the insurance requirements for shooting here?
Who is the point of contact in case of an emergency or issue?

Environmental and External Factors:

Are there any seasonal or weather-related considerations to keep in mind?
How busy is the location typically, and will there be foot traffic or interruptions?
Are there any nearby construction projects or events that could affect the shoot?

Backup Plans:

What are the contingency plans in case the location becomes unavailable?
Are there alternative locations that offer similar features?

Experience and References:

Have other production teams used this location before, and can we contact them for references?
Are there any testimonials or case studies from previous shoots?

These questions help ensure that the location is suitable for the production’s needs and that any potential issues are addressed beforehand. We can help, give me a call.

Mike Haller
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
stlouislocations@gmail.com
Cell 314-913-5626

What to Wear for Your Headshot Photography Session

Choose the Right Outfit

Selecting the ideal outfit for a headshot session can be hard. Wrong choices can ruin the outcome. A great way to make sure you get the best result is to choose something that shows your personality and fits the photoshoot.

Here are the top tips for selecting an outfit for a headshot session:

Consider colors and patterns

When picking an outfit for your headshot photoshoot, there are certain things to consider. Opt for solid colors. Bright blues, greens, pinks or yellows should be avoided as they can make the background too busy and can clash with skin tones. Darker colors like black, navy, gray and brown are better. Textured fabrics can add depth, but don’t go overboard. Stripes or plaids should be avoided. If you have a patterned shirt, make sure it doesn’t stand out too much.

When it comes to accessories, keep it simple. Don’t let their colors overwhelm the photo.

Choose clothing that fits you well

Choose clothing that fits you properly for your headshot photography session. Too large and shape is undefined. Too tight and uncomfortable, unflattering. Good fit should enhance shape and not pinch.

Bring various clothes for different headshots. Neutrals like blue, earth tones, grey are good, but bright colours bring life. Avoid bold stripes, distracting patterns. Stick to solids and simple designs so focus is on your face.

For a more professional look, dress like an interview day. Formal wear like suits or cocktail dresses.

Clothing should be clean, crisp, pressed. Fabric freshener beforehand. Steam just before each shot to avoid wrinkles and ensure attention on your face. Fitted pieces (including jackets) stop clothing from moving around.

Avoid logos and busy patterns

When choosing clothing for a headshot photography session, make sure it is clean, neat and professional-looking. You don’t need to be in a suit or formal attire but still consider what is appropriate for the setting. Solid colors bring attention to your face better.

Take into account skin and hair tones. Certain shades may blend too much. If the photography requires a specific look, pay attention to any required accessories such as ties and jewelry. Avoid logos and busy patterns. These can be distracting in photos.

Accessorize

Headshots are not just about your clothes. Accessories matter too! They can make your look stand out. Here’s the scoop on accessorizing.

Choose the right one for your headshot photoshoot. It’s important!

Choose jewelry and accessories that complement your outfit

Jewelry and accessories are great for enhancing your look. Select pieces that suit your outfit and face shape. When creating a pro headshot, timeless style is better than trendy. To achieve an effortless, polished look, choose accessories suitable for the occasion.

With a blouse with puffed sleeves, a simple pearl necklace or small stud earrings can balance the design. The best jewelry advice for a headshot is to pick pieces that reflect your style but are still classic. Bold statement pieces are best limited to one item, eg. a drop earring or statement necklace. Avoid large dangling earrings, chokers, excessive bracelets or rings.

To ensure the focus is on you, opt for plain metals like sterling silver or 14k gold instead of costume items like cloth or plastic beads.

Consider adding a scarf or hat for a more dramatic look

A scarf or hat in your headshot session can give a dramatic look and show off your personality! Pick one of medium scale, so it doesn’t take over the photo. Look for textures and patterns, with classic fabrics and colors that match your outfit. Scarves are ideal, because they add visual interest and movement. Any size or style – neutral long-style, bright-colored shawl, or vintage necktie – will work.

Hats can add character, but be aware they can cast shadows. If you choose more than one accessory, bring extras in case they clash with tops. That way all looks are cohesive and aesthetically pleasing.

Hair and Makeup

A professional headshot is all about showing the best version of you. Hair and makeup styling is essential. Pick the right hairstyle, and the right makeup. Create a smart, stylish look that is all yours.

Here are some tips to help you nail your headshot session.

Choose a hairstyle that fits your face shape

Choose a hairstyle that fits your face shape and complements your look. Start by determining your face shape: round, oval, rectangular, or triangular?

Round Faces: Go for layers or tousled waves with movement. Avoid blunt cuts and center parts.

Oval Faces: Soft layers and volume at the crown look good.

Rectangular Faces: Choose styles with lots of volume to soften the sharpness. Waves also help add width.

Triangular Faces: Try asymmetrical styles and sweeping bangs. Blunt cuts can make faces too severe.

Texture matters too! Find styles that work best with your hair type & length. Keep it simple, professional, and approachable. Avoid wild colors/patterns.

Consider a professional makeup artist

Getting a pro makeup artist for your headshot? A great idea! They have the skill and tools to make you look your best. Plus, they can suggest the right makeup for your face shape and wardrobe colors. And, they can hide any shadows, blemishes or discolorations.

Let your artist come early on shoot day. They need time to get foundation, powder, eyeshadow, liner, lipstick or gloss just right. Give them enough time, and bring photos of looks you like. With a pro, you’ll always look polished, even on short notice!

Shoes

Choosing shoes for your headshot photography session can be tough. You need to pick the perfect shoes to make your photos stand out. Neutral, plain and timeless shoes usually work best.

Let’s take a look at what shoes you could wear for your session.

Choose shoes that match your outfit

When picking your shoes for your headshot session, it’s crucial to pick wisely! You want shoes that don’t just match your outfit, but also look amazing and appropriate. Here are some tips:

• Think about how they’ll look in photos. Avoid bright or neon colors, and instead opt for neutral tones like black or beige, or even metallics like silver or gold.

• Match the color of your shoes with your outfit. If you’re wearing dark colors, pick dark shoe tones; for lighter colors, choose light shoe tones.

• Comfort is key! If the shoes aren’t comfortable, there’s no point in wearing them. Opt for straps and break in any new shoes.

• Keep them professional. Avoid anything too flashy like sequined stilettos or flashy sneakers. Stick with a classic style that adds elegance without being too showy.

By following these tips, you can make sure your headshots will perfectly capture who you are and what you do!

Consider wearing heels to elongate your legs

Women may want to wear heels to give a height boost. Low profile heels are best, like a nude heel or kitten heel. Heels should be under 3 inches.

Men should opt for dress shoes or boots. Open-toed sandals are not good for business photos. Choose lighter colors like beige, brown or black for the best effect. Avoid clunky shoes.

Final Touches

Headshot photography sessions need the perfect finishing touches. Clothing is essential, from the colors to the textures. Knowing what to wear is key for a professional image that shows off your personality. So, what should you wear for your headshot photography session?

Let us explore!

Bring a few different outfits to the session

Photographers and clients understand that having a variety of wardrobe choices is key for a great headshot session. Bring two to three outfits that represent the roles you want to be considered for. For example, if you’re an actor, one should be typical of your on-stage character preferences – such as business attire or dressy evening wear. Another should be more down-to-earth, and maybe one in between.

Choose neutral colors – like black, navy blue, dark gray or brown. No logos or bold patterns. Bright colors can work, if kept to a minimum. For men, jacket and tie combos with a plain white shirt variant for each look. Avoid short sleeves. Women can opt for clothing that flatters their shape with several necklines – v-necks, boatnecks, round necks. Accessories can help bring out each look – statement jewelry pieces – but don’t overdo it! Hair and makeup should be natural looking. Use cosmetics subtly – lighten/even skin, slight touches to eyebrows/eyes/cheeks/lips. Don’t forget clean, well polished shoes! Professional headshots need thorough preparation!

Bring a few props to add more interest to your photos

For headshot photography, dress for the job you want. Choose outfits that are appropriate for your profession. Add props like books, awards, sports equipment or even a pet to personalize the session. Don’t let the props take away from you as the focus of the photo.

Men should bring items like briefcases, sunglasses or hats. Women may bring bags or jewelry. If you have questions, talk to the photographer ahead of time.

When posing, keep both hands free and visible. Listen to the photographer’s direction and poses. Place the items strategically in each shot to create great images!

Mike Haller

mikeh@hallerconcepts.com
4501 Mattis Road
St. Louis, MO 63128
Studio 314-892-1233
Cell 314-913-5626

Missouri and Illinois professional location scouts for film and photography productions

There are a few important things to take into consideration when on an initial location scout. The most obvious is you want your locations to match (as best they can) the brief that the director created and the mood he or she is after. Besides the overall look you need to also be thinking about the logistics of the location.

A good location scout for film will make your job easy and provide you with multiple options for each location.

It’s your job to review the locations, scope it out in person, and decide the best location for your budget and production needs.