05/12/2025
I don't use any cookie-cutter lighting or posing for my studio sessions. As illustrated in some samples from a recent collaboration in Studio 414 with Chika Chan, I start with the intended use for the photos, the look the subject is going for, and the subject's personality; then I build the lighting and pose concepts by adding, modifying, moving or removing lighting to achieve the desired effect.
Photo 1, for example, is a three-light setup that is flattering for Chika's talent headshots- minimizes shadows on the face but still accentuates her cheekbones, jawline and eyes. Picture 2, a five-light setup, accentuates musculature for fitness and athletics. Photos 4-6 use just two lights; it is a lighting scheme intended to introduce a little more drama, mystery and intimacy into the image. The pose in photo 7 was not planned; I caught Chika sneaking a peek at the monitor and recognized the charming natural body/arm/hands position and expression. I love catching subjects in un-posed moments like this!
I will be open for Art A Whirl this coming weekend, so stop by and we can discuss your needs. My basic 1-hour headshot packages start at $295 and include four retouched images. Ask about special pricing for small groups and during Second Saturday open studios.
