Digital or film?
I am completely comfortable and confident in saying that Digital is the way to go. For this industry, it is simply a perfect way to shoot. Aside from all of the advantages (instant CD, e mailing, color & B&W, etc., etc.) the results are terrific. There is no mystery here. As with any type of photography, it comes down to two things: knowing your camera and knowing your lighting. There is also no second generation printing. Every shot is made directly from an original file. But, even though you may have a printer or a friend who wants to print out your shots, they should be done at a professional, qualified photo lab for the best results...just like film.

How long will the session take?
If makeup is used, allow an extra hour. By the time we say hello and get you started that first hour goes by quickly. The shoot itself averages 1 1/2 to 2 hours . If it goes faster, great! But if you need more time, then that is fine too.

How soon will I see the pictures?
When we shoot digitally you will get your printed CD immediately after the shoot. We’ll go through them show you in color & Black & White and maybe retouch and adjust a few to show you some options.

What about wardrobe?
Anything from black to white is fine with me. If you’re torn between the black or the navy blue, then bring them both. I’ll help you with that. Stay away from scoop or boat necks. V-necks are more complimentary. Texture is great. Sweaters, jackets and layers all work well in photos. Remember that simple is best. The eye goes to the busiest part of a photo. You want it to go to your face. Stay away from prints, stripes and patterns.

Should I shoot in natural light or studio light?
A lot of agents prefer natural light in Hollywood and there is plenty of it all of the time. I really love the nice “ambient” feel of light all around that it gives. Shooting in the studio is also a good option. With a correctly balanced digital camera it can look amazing and a little different from everything else out there. We can talk about this at the time of your interview or shoot and if you want to, why not do both!

Should I shoot in Color or B&W?
Once again...a great advantage of digital. It shoots in Color and then “flips” to B&W in Photoshop...so you have both and now that color is being accepted and preferred by most agents for commercial and theatrical it gives you that choice without having to make it at the time of your shoot.

Should I keep the negatives?
If we shoot film then you are welcome to them or leave them with me. With digital there is no film and I make a copy of your CD for myself so it’s like having a “backup” set of negatives.

What are we shooting for?
This business tends to type you by your look. If you are all American white bread, don’t shoot in black leather. It looks great, but will be a waste of film for you. Shoot for where you are going to work as opposed to where you want to work. There is a difference.