Have questions? We’ve got answers!

See below for the answers to some of our frequently asked questions.

Questions About Booking Your Session

To schedule your headshot session, simply call or email:
(646) 460-0090 | hello@colinkeyphotography.com
Please share your preferred booking date(s) and I will reply quickly with a booking confirmation.

A 50% deposit is required to hold your booking. The deposit is fully refundable up 48 hours prior to your session. Within 48 hours, a $100 cancelation fee will be deducted upon repayment of your deposit.

If you can swing it, yes. Professional hair and makeup will absolutely elevate the quality of your images. This goes for men and kids too. Our HMU pros have worked extensively in film and television and their work will give you a vibrant, natural look.

Absolutely! It’s a great opportunity to get acquainted, discuss your work and any specific goals you have for your session. Whether you’re a seasoned actor in need of updated shots or you’re just getting started in the biz, connecting via phone, Zoom, or Google Chat is an ideal first step.

The same is true for business professionals. Getting to know you, your work, and how you will use your images is very helpful in assuring you get headshots that hit the mark!

Life can throw a curve now and again. If so, I’ll get you rescheduled asap. Upon booking, however, please clear your calendar and book out with your reps right away to avoid any conflicts.

To avoid a $50 rebooking fee, please reschedule up to 48 hours prior to your session.
Should you need to cancel your session, you will be refunded your deposit less the $100 cancellation fee.

You bet. A 10% discount is available for returning clients and full-time students enrolled in high school or college.

PREPARING FOR YOUR SESSION

While there are few “rules” for theatrical headshots, rich earth tones generally work best. I often suggest a layered approach. For example, start with well-fitted t-shirts in a variety of colors. Then add short or long sleeve button-downs, a flannel or overshirt, pullovers such as a Henley, sweater, turtleneck, etc. From there, add a leather, bomber, denim or trucker jacket, or a hoodie, etc. You can often build very nice alternate looks simply by working in layers.

Consider:

  • Muted, medium intensity colors – nothing overly bright

  • Earth tones in gray, black, brown, rich green or blue

  • Muted colors and pastels. Anything that compliments your skin tones

  • Modern or classic lines, well-fitted garments with clean neck and shoulder lines

  • Solid colors or simple patterns are preferable

  • But, if you like it, bring it!

    Avoid:

  • Busy patterns such as stripes or polka dots

  • Overly bright or distracting colors

  • Any logos or brand emblems

  • Dated or overly styled garments. Don’t bring the bling

Commercial headshots require a colorful, vibrant feel. Watch TV commercials for a while and this will become abundantly clear. Commercial and print actors must appear aspirational – the ideal of an advertiser’s target demographic. That should be reflected in the clothing you wear.

  • Colors to compliment your eyes, skin, and hair
  • Contemporary styles
  • Well-fitted garments, nothing too snug or baggy
  • No logos
  •  

For business headshots, less is more. Choose items well-suited to your profession.

  • Well-fitted, contemporary suiting and business casual attire
  • Solid colors and muted earth tones
  • A colorful accent piece such as a tie, scarf, pocket square, etc. can add a bit of flair
  • Choose well-fitted button downs or knits
  • Glare free glasses, when possible
  •  

ABOUT YOUR SESSION

For actors, headshot sessions typically last about 3 hours but the length can vary depending on your specific needs. Regardless, your session will never be rushed.

Business Headshot sessions take about an hour – give or take. With pro hair and makeup, add another 30-60 minutes to your session time.

For some, being photographed just comes naturally. For others, not so much. Just because you’re a seasoned actor, performer, or professional doesn’t assure you are comfortable when the camera starts clicking. If you typically feel awkward or anxious when getting headshots, not to worry. I’ve got you covered and will share some easy tips and secrets for assuring you look relaxed, lively, and natural.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER YOUR SESSION

You will receive a private online gallery within 48 hours of your session. Once you have made your photo selections, we deliver your professionally retouched headshots in 3-5 days – often sooner.

Yes. Today’s pro lenses and camera sensors capture every tiny imperfection from stray hairs to blemishes so pro retouching is a standard part of the Headshot process. Nothing is overly retouched or filtered and you are assured a beautiful and completely natural result.

My sessions include 2 retouched images. Additional edits are $40 each. Please see our retouching page for videos with detailed examples.

You will receive a link to a private, password protected gallery where you can “favorite” images and make comments for your selections. Feel free to share your gallery link with your representation, friends, or family. All comments and selections are visible in real time.

Absolutely. However, we respectfully request that you await delivery of your completed images before sharing them on social media and that you please tag us @colinkeyphotography on Instagram and Facebook.

Of course. Your digital gallery will be active for 6 months so you can revisit and make additional selections as needed.