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The Art and Tech of Headshot Retouching
Master of the craft
From subtle skin retouching and weight loss to anti aging and expression adjustments, we can handle any level of headshot retouching that suits your needs.
Every individual is different. We never judge when it comes to retouching commercial headshots. Our goal is always to be subtle enough to make you look like the best you that you know and love! We consider your age, body type and any other detail you provide to us.
Weight Loss
Weight Loss Techniques Explained:
For individuals who want to create the illusion of weight loss in their headshots, there are several retouching techniques that can help achieve this effect:
Face Slimming:
We utilize the liquify tool or warp tool to subtly slim down the face by reducing the width of the cheeks and jawline. Be cautious not to overdo it, as excessive manipulation can result in an unnatural appearance. Aim for subtle adjustments that create a more streamlined and sculpted facial contour.
Neck and Chin Sculpting:
Reduce the appearance of fullness in the neck and chin area by using the liquify tool. We gently smooth out any bulges or double chin appearance to create a more defined jawline and neck. Pay attention to maintaining natural proportions and avoiding overly exaggerated changes.
Body Reshaping:
Similar to face slimming, use the liquify tool to reshape the body contours and create a slimmer appearance. Focus on areas such as the waist, arms, and torso, making subtle adjustments to create a more streamlined silhouette. Be mindful of maintaining realistic proportions and avoiding distortion of the body shape.
Customization and Individualization: When it comes to headshot retouching, one size does not fit all. Every individual has unique features, preferences, and professional goals. It's crucial to tailor the retouching process to suit each client's specific needs.
Understanding Our Client Preferences: We begin our headshot retouching process by discussing our client's preferences regarding their headshot. Some clients may prefer a more natural look with minimal retouching, while others may desire a more polished appearance. Having open communication with ouir clients and understanding their vision for their headshot is essential. Only then can we ensure that the final result meets your expectations.
Assessing Individual Features: Each person's face has its own distinctive characteristics, such as skin texture, facial structure, and imperfections. As a professional retoucher, it's essential that we assess these features individually. We then determine the most appropriate retouching techniques to enhance the overall appearance while maintaining our subject's unique identity. For example, some clients may have specific concerns about certain features, such as scars, wrinkles, or blemishes, which require special attention during the retouching process. Others may want to retain birthmarks and age appropriate wrinkles.
Preserving Authenticity: While headshot retouching can significantly improve the appearance of a headshot, it's essential to preserve our subject's authentic self and natural features. Overly aggressive retouching can results in an unnatural appearance that detracts from the authenticity of the image. Striking the right balance between enhancement and authenticity is key to creating headshots that accurately represent the individual while still looking polished and professional.
Overall Image Enhancement: In addition to targeted retouching techniques, overall image enhancement may include adjustments to contrast, brightness, and saturation to improve the overall appearance of the headshot. This may involve fine-tuning exposure levels, adjusting highlights and shadows, and enhancing details to create a polished and professional-looking image.
Blemish Removal: Blemishes such as acne, scars, or redness can be distracting in a headshot. We usually remove these during the retouching process. Moles and beauty marks are usually left in unless requested otherwise. Care is taken to maintain the natural texture of the skin and avoid over-retouching, which can result in an unnatural appearance.
Teeth Whitening: Bright, white teeth can enhance a person's smile and overall appearance in a headshot. Teeth whitening techniques involve selectively adjusting the brightness and saturation of the teeth to achieve a natural yet brighter smile. This can be done using adjustment layers or specialized teeth whitening tools in photo editing software.
Under-eye Bag Reduction: Dark circles or under-eye bags can give the appearance of fatigue or exhaustion in a headshot. Techniques such as dodging and burning or targeted adjustments can be used to lighten dark areas under the eyes and reduce the appearance of puffiness or bags. It's important to maintain a subtle and natural-looking result to avoid an overly retouched appearance.
Color Correction: Color correction is essential for achieving accurate and pleasing skin tones in a headshot. This involves adjusting the color balance, saturation, and hue to correct any color casts or inconsistencies in the skin tone. Techniques such as selective color adjustments or using color correction tools help achieve balanced and natural-looking skin tones.
Wrinkle Reduction: Some wrinkles add character and authenticity to a person's appearance. Excessive wrinkles or creases may be softened or reduced during the retouching process. We utilize techniques such as frequency separation and targeted smoothing to minimize the appearance of wrinkles while preserving skin texture and detail.
Adjusting Retouching Intensity: Not every client will require the same level of retouching. Some may only need minor adjustments to enhance their natural beauty, while others may request more significant alterations. It's essential to adapt the intensity of retouching based on our client's preferences and the intended purpose of the headshot. For example, headshots for corporate professionals may require a more conservative approach to retouching. These focus on subtle enhancements to convey professionalism and approachability. Actors and models on the other hand may require more to illustrate the possilble looks they can present.
In summary, basic headshot retouching techniques play a crucial role in enhancing the appearance of headshots while maintaining a natural and authentic look. By mastering these techniques we are able to achieve high-quality results that meet your expectations and enhance your professional image.
Capture Your Family At Their Most Engaging: Get Stunning family portraits for your crew by a Top Commercial Photographer in the Southbay of Los Angeles.
Family Portraits Approach
Family Portrait Parties - Our Approach To Delivering An Experience That Your Crew Won't Soon Forget
family portraits
Family portraits should be more than just typical run of the mill poses; they are windows into the heart and soul of a family's chararacter. That's why we set up our sessions as more of an event. Families can come in and hang out with food and drinks and relax while being together outside of your normal environment. Shots become more spontaneous and true to your normal interaction with each other. With an artistic flair that transcends conventional portraits, Randy captures those moments of family bonding, turning each portrait session into a fun, light and engaging experience. Here's how he delivers exceptional results:
Personalized Consultation
Before the photoshoot for your family portraits, Randy will have a consultation with you to understand your family's style, personality, and some of the quirky personalities of all. He'll also talk with all of your crew at the shoot to understand what they like and what makes them tick. Whether it's music, sports, movies, he'll help them stay loose through their session.
Posing, Movement and Direction
Through a vivid understanding of his subjects and an eye for detail, Randy creates family portraits that are not only visually striking but also deeply reflective of the unique dynamics within each family. From the laughter shared during candid moments to the quiet glances that speak volumes, every frame encapsulates the essence of family life.
family photos of two asian sisters
Outdoor Family Portraits
We also go on location to your family's favorite Southbay spots. Winter is a great time of year to shoot. The sun moves across the southern sky creating great dramatic backlight no matter what time of day. Of course late evening sun at the beach is also pretty dramatic. Call to discuss your family size and location for an estimate.
family photos
family portrait of family in tall grass
family portraits
family portraits of family hanging out in a tree
family portraits
family portraits
Casual, Dress Casual or Formal for Family Portraits?
This is a question we get more often than any other. The answer just depends on your crew. If you all are alike, pick something that is color coordinated. If everyone has a unique style, have fun with it, but pick similar tones.We always feel that you should bring more than less and have no problem with having multiple variations from which to choose. It becomes a fun part of the photo shoot and we embrace it!
family portraits
_RSP6163_RTPP_1850pxQg - headshot mini session
Acting Headshots Near Me
Headshot - headshot photography
How a Master Pet Photographer is Bringing His Expertise and Passion to Everyday Pet Owners
Master of the craft
From Commercial Success to Community Roots: The Pet Portraits Expertise of Randy Schwartz
When it comes to capturing the essence of our furry companions, commercial pet photographer RandySchwartz is a true master of the craft. With years of experience in the industry, Randy has worked with some of the biggest names in the pet product world, capturing unforgettable moments that have helped these companies build their brands and connect with their customers on a deeper level.
Back To His Roots
Despite his impressive portfolio of work, Randy has never lost sight of his roots. He's always been passionate about working with everyday pet owners, helping them capture memories of their beloved pets that will last a lifetime. And now, he's bringing that passion to the local community, offering his expertise and services to pet owners who want to capture their pets in all their glory.
Creating a Connection
So what sets Randy apart from other pet photographers? For one, his ability to connect with animals is unparalleled. He's patient, calm, and has a way of making even the most nervous pets feel at ease in front of the camera. But it's not just about the animals - Randy is also a master of lighting, composition, and storytelling. He knows how to capture the perfect shot that will not only showcase your pet's unique personality, but also tell a story that will tug at your heartstrings.
We Feel Your Bond
And it's not just about the photos themselves. Randy's passion for pets and his love of storytelling also translate into his approach to understanding your relationship with your pet. He takes the time to get to know his clients and their pets, building relationships that go beyond a simple pet photo shoot. He works with his clients to understand their vision, and then brings that vision to life in a way that exceeds expectations.
But perhaps the most compelling reason to work with Randy is the quality of his work. His photos are stunning - they're the kind of images that you'll want to display proudly in your home, share with friends and family, and treasure for years to come. And with Randy's commercial photography background, you can be confident that the photos he takes of your pet will be of the highest quality, with a level of professionalism that you won't find elsewhere.
So if you're looking for a pet photographer who truly understands the magic of the human-animal bond, look no further than soothsay-headshots. With his passion for pets, his mastery of the craft, and his commitment to delivering a truly exceptional experience, he's the perfect choice for anyone who wants to capture the essence of their furry companion in all it's glory.
Pricing Starts at $300
Because every situation is different we customize our pet portrait shoots according to your vision. We'll do everything from simple studio portraits of your pet to complex location shoots of your choosing. If you have moments with your pet that you'd like to try to recapture we are always game. Feel free to contact us to discuss.
For these shots our dogs were preparing for more action packed scenes that showcased great California locations for some of our commercial clients.
The wardrobe that you choose will make all the difference in the world in how your face and feature come across to the viewer.
Headshot How To
5 Headshot Wardrobe Tips for Success
Your choice of wardrobe can make or break a successful headshot. There are a lot of factors that go into the styles and colors that you choose. These tips will give you a guide to picking the perfect wardrobe for your headshot.
Solids aren't always the rule.
It goes without saying that solid colors are usually the best bet for your headshot, but this isn't always the case. A top with a flattering neckline and some color in the pattern or stripe that matches your hair or your eyes can make for a very successful headshot.
In these two shots the stripe and the flowers match the hair while the pattern's background flatters the skin tone. An unusual wardrobe tip but one that can work.
Pick your headshot wardrobe to match your eye color.
Generally speaking if your top matches your eye color your headshot photo will draw the viewer's attention to your eyes. This is what you want first and foremost. They say the eyes are the window to the soul - well at least to the character inside of you!
In this shot our actor brought a top with nearly a perfect match to her eyes as part of a more extensive wardrobe selection. This shot was one of her favorites.
Necklines and Shoulder Width
This is a big part of choosing an outfit for your headshot. Most of the time this is what makes or breaks the looks you are trying to achieve. The following are some tips based on your face and upper body structure.
Face type:
Shorter wide or round face- consider a narrower neck line like a tight v or crew.
Narrow long face - consider wider scoop or even a wide v neck.
Neck
Long Neck - consider crew necks and even turtle necks.
Shorter neck - Wider, lower v-neck and scoop neck lines work.
Shoulders work the opposite. The wider your shoulders, the wider the neckline of your top and vice versa. This tip will enhance and not exaggerate your shoulder width.
One last tip - square neck shirts work great with a short neck and narrow shoulders.
Casual, Business Casual or Formal?
This is a question we get more often than any other. The answer just depends on your needs.
Business casual looks, with and without a sport coat, are more and more popular for business headshots these days. One key is finding a collar that sits well on your shoulders and does not flop into your neck.
For actors, a range of looks are the key and much depends on the types of roles you are pursuing and the type of character your specific look can pull off. Some actors are chameleons and can pull off many roles, while others meet a very specific genre. Find what you truly want to do, get some feedback from people you respect and then go for it.
Nervousness leading to procrastination is all too often the reason folks put off getting their professional headshots done. We strive to give you the most exhilarating and fun experience that will show through in your images.
Headshot How To
How to Loosen Up
For Your Headshots
Staying loose and true to yourself is one of the most important aspects of your headshot pose. Here you will find ways to loosen up and find that comfort zone to become your inner star for one of the most important aspects of your promotional headshot. Scroll down to learn more!
Get Off Your Butt!
Sitting for a headshot, while a good start, can get pretty stiff pretty fast. Try to get out of your seat and move. Get some air through your hair and keep the blood flowing. If possible find out if you can shoot some shots outside in the daylight. You can always go back to the original set and will have a better feel for what you are doing. Movement is the key.
In this shot we took a break and went outside into the late day sun with a gentle breeze blowing to get a more engaging joyful shot. Her choice of wardrobe also enhances the way she felt with a great neckline and flowing fabric. When we returned inside our model was much more engaging.
Get Into Character
Think of your favorite actor or role model here. What expressions do they have. What do they look like on the big screen. Are they famous for a certain look. Do an impression even if it's not very good, the exercise alone will allow you to loosen up.
In this shot our executive DID NOT want to be there. His company set up the shoot. When he arrived I could see some resemblance to great character actors and told him so. He actually loosened up right then and there. We went through some exercises where he role modeled some of his favorites and got this very intense shot - one of my favorites.
Jump Around!
Get movement by getting off your feet - literally. If you are able, try to find a place to get some energetic physical movement. Dancing, jumping or even a brisk walk will help with nervousness and flow. Of course shooting an actual headshot pose like this is difficult, the exercise will allow you to settle into the situation.
Duh, Music!
Music soothes the soul, calms the nerves, and inspires you to put out your very best. Putting your favorite playlist on the sound system or just tuning in on your headphones can give you an escape and the inspiration to get you started.
For this shot our model was part of our greenscreen project with his music playing over our sound system (headphones were props). Point is the music kept the shoot inspired.
Shooting your headshots with a greenscreen background adds flexibility to how you use your images.
We've added greenscreen as an option for your headshot backgrounds. This allows us to customize your shoot to match your company's existing backgrounds. It also gives you flexibility for updating the look of your headshot by simply changing your background to match the tone and design of the published or printed media. As a result your headshots can have a lasting impact on all of your promotions.
Check out the examples below.
When requested all images will be shot with the greenscreen as a background. When you choose your final edits, we'll add your choice of colors, textured or studio backgrounds. And you can come back later to have them changed for a small fee.
In addition to the tips we provide, please make sure your wardrobe does not include any green color. While it is possible to separate a green shirt from a green background, it is not ideal.
If you are proficient with Adobe Photoshop, we've found that the plugin Key36 works the best for separating hair. Randy has spent many years refining his greenscreen technique to ensure that your custom headshots blend seamlessly into the desired background. His skill with the camera and direction creates an engaging and professional atmosphere that will give you a memorable experience. As a result you can feel confident that this type of shoot will yield tremendous benifits in all of your promotions.
