Are you planning a headshot event at your office? Have you picked out the best conference room or lobby space to have the photographer set up? I’ve found big differences between what clients think makes a great studio space and what doesn’t. So here’s a short video and guide with some considerations.
Logistics
We’ll get to the photography details, but first it’s worth mentioning some functional notes. Over my years of on location headshot photography work in Detroit and Chicago, I’ve found that people generally don’t like an audience when getting a headshot. So if there’s a way to configure the room that allows for some privacy, your colleagues will appreciate it.
In terms of actual room size, at minimun, I like to have 4-6 feet of width and about 20 feet of depth to work with. I’ve squeezed into some pretty tight spaces over the years, but the best spaces will have room for people to enter and exit safely, without the risk of tripping over each other or the equipment.
Photography Considerations
The primary objective of your headshot day at work is to deliver a set of consistent images. My goal is to provide you with a consistent image whether I come to your office or your send your new hires to my Troy studio in the future.
A large common space with lots of natural light can actually introduce some challenges to providing consistent headshot images throughout the day or in the future.
To get this consistency, most photographers (myself included) want complete control of the light in the room. We bring and make our own lights. What does this mean for the room choice? It means we don’t care about big spacious windows or skyline views out the window. When I enter a room to set up, I typically start by dimming the lights and closing the blinds. 🧛🏻♂️
We’ll also want to avoid rooms with bold accent colored walls or anything else nearby that holds a lot of color. Studio lights can reflect off these walls or objects, which creates a color cast (not good for consistency).
If you can’t avoid a room with windows, stick with a north facing view (in the northern hemisphere). This will minimize any harsh light hitting the room. Direct morning or afternoon sun can create hard light casts across the background or subject, which are very difficult to remove in post.
Amenities
Access to a wall power outlet is always appreciated as is wifi access.
If there’s not a table in the room, access to a small portable table or cart can be helpful especially if we’re proofing on site (allowing everyone to see and select their favorite image via laptop.
Final Thoughts
I hope this post gives you a few things to consider that you hadn’t already thought about. All these details will add up to make a smooth day with a great final images.
If you have any questions about your space, don’t hesitate to send me a note or call. Many clients will send a few snapshots of possible rooms. I can typically tell you in a glance what space would be best.
