Unveiling the Art of Headshot Photography Workflows

This article is 100% written by AI about Episode 26 of Workflows with Seshu Badrinath

In the world of photography, headshots are more than just mere portraits. They act as the first bridge to a client's life, creating a connection and opening doors for business opportunities. In episode 026 of the "Workflows" podcast, host Scott Wyden Kivowitz interviews Seshu Badrinath, a renowned headshot photographer from Connecticut, who shares the inner workings of his headshot photography workflows.

Building Trust and Making Informed Choices:

According to Seshu, simply providing clients with an online gallery and expecting them to make choices would be a disservice. As clients aren't professional photographers, they might not know what factors to consider when selecting their photographs. Seshu emphasizes the importance of his guidance and expertise in helping clients make decisions based on expression, lighting, and other impactful aspects. Unlike an online gallery, Seshu acts as a third party, helping clients create photographs that resonate with their potential clients.

Understanding the Purpose of Headshots:

Headshots are primarily intended to showcase a client's personality, confidence, and approachability to their potential clients. By understanding these qualities, potential clients can build trust, ultimately leading them to reach out to the client. This understanding, coupled with Seshu's personal guidance, plays a crucial role in crafting headshots that make a lasting impression.

Clear and Effective Communication:

Effective communication is vital before, during, and after a client's photo session. Seshu highlights the importance of multiple conversations with clients to understand their needs, save time, and enhance client comfort and trust. By providing clear directions and expectations, clients can be prepared, avoiding issues like arriving unprepared or with sunburned skin. This approach not only saves time for both the photographer and the clients but also increases overall profitability.

Post-Processing and Editing:

During the editing phase, Seshu uses Photoshop to enhance the images based on client preferences and specific needs. For instance, he recalls a client who requested the removal of a scar on his head, as it reminded him of bad times. Seshu agreed to edit it out, underscoring the importance of effective communication and responsiveness to clients' desires.

The Role of a Retoucher:

Seshu works closely with a retoucher who listens to his needs and acts as a valuable team player rather than just a vendor. By providing clear instructions and reference files, Seshu ensures that the retoucher understands the desired edits. The retouched photos are received through Dropbox, allowing Seshu to provide feedback for any further adjustments if needed.

Conclusion:

Headshot photography is an art that goes beyond capturing a client's likeness. Through Seshu Badrinath's shared insights, we explore the importance of guidance, communication, and post-processing in delivering headshots that resonate with clients and their potential customers. By carefully considering lighting, expression, and other crucial factors, photographers can create headshots that build trust, open doors to new opportunities, and leave a lasting impression in clients' professional journeys.

So, whether you're a small business owner, executive, actor, or healthcare professional, a well-executed headshot can become the cornerstone of your personal brand, inviting success and connection in the competitive professional landscape.

Tune in to episode 026 of the "Workflows" podcast to delve deeper into Seshu Badrinath's intriguing headshot photography workflows and gain valuable insights for your own photographic journey.