Thanks for this really good video! I've shot many thousands of headshots and have a few thoughts I'd like to share. (1) I would not recommend a ring light as a cheap alternative lightsource for headshots. I see ring lights misused a lot. They are intended for very close proximity and for the camera/lens to be positioned in the middle of the ring. Also, they create a very distinctive reflection in the eye (catch light) which can look unnatural. (2) I might recommend a faster shutter speed than 1/60 second. A faster shutter speed helps eliminate effects of ambient light when doing headshots. Less of a problem if the ambient light is the exact same color as the photographer's lightsource. But if ambient light is warmer then you might end up with orange-ish highlights in the hair, etc. (3) Tip: If the subject is looking up toward the light (like in your video) there will be reflection in the eyeglasses. As soon as you take this picture, tell the subject not to move but to remove his/her eyeglasses and shoot the same shot again. In post, you can replace the eyeglass reflection with the eyes from the photo without eyeglasses. When done right it looks amazing. (4) Using the reflector to add some light to the dark side is a great tip. If you're on a budget, just go to an office supply store and buy a piece of white foam board. It's lightweight. It works great.
Hey Dave! Wow, thanks for the super informative comment! Yes, I definitely don’t think a ring light is a good cheap alternative, nowadays you can get even a powerful constant light like for video to do the job even! Great point about shutter speed and ambient light. Something I definitely look out for on location shoots, here I had no lights on and it was dark which is why I used it. Man, great tip on the glasses!! Never would’ve thought of that. I always just raised the softbox higher to get it out. Tip 4 for a foam board is always such a solid tip, great advice man, thanks!
Also have a couple of things you may find interesting. You should try tethering your camera to a computer running capture One. You can download a trial version of capture One but when you shoot the picture you can immediately see it on the computer screen and it's great. Next I would set your camera to the lowest ISO possible and set your shutter speed to the sink speed for your flash on most cameras it's usually 200 or 250. Next I would set my aperture to f8 and take a shot. Hopefully the image you see will be totally black which is what you want. This demonstrates that there is no ambient light interfering and you have full control of your lighting using your strobes. You also could get a meter and meter the space but the thing I learned from Daniel Norton's videos is that you want to make sure that you eliminate all ambient light in the room so that the only light controlling your photographs are your flash units. Enjoy and keep shooting.
@@dab7963 yes, and an another economic solution is to bring a 13 to 22" flat screen monitor and post it on a stand... (make sure colors are calibrated good on it) and plug in a quick connect HDMI cable (bungee cord) to your HDMI out on your camera to review shots if draging in a computer set up with a table etc. is not permissable or room is a factor...some cameras have wifi which can mirror onto an ipad as well
THANK YOU!!! I needed a short, to-the-point, video on how to do head shots (have some scheduled tomorrow)!!! I love the simplicity but with thorough explanations for each step. I am now a 'Subscriber'!
good info! im a new shooter about 15 months. i shoot with a Nikon D3200 and i started shooting myself using off camera flash using softbox and shoot through umbrella. im also a new youtube creator and i spoke on this for the beginners. all this info is valuable so thank you! Im not this far into my shooting, but its always good to stay connected to people who are passionate abou thier craft.
Hey! Glad it was helpful! It's a great side of photography to be in. While it's not the main type of photography I do with my business, a big chunk of it is still headshot photography that brings in quite a bit of income. Especially if you can land a gig shooting multiple headshots for multiple businesses!
You're welcome! I start there and then add more power if needed, typically might end up between 1/16-1/8th power in brighter rooms. Thanks for watching!
i love how pragmatic you are with the lighting. For sure, a ring light isn't the same as an Aperture light. But everyone is at different budgets/levels in their equipment. Work with what you got!
Keep the gear simple. I’ve been shooting headshots for 4 years now. That’s my overall lesson learned. You don’t need a lot of gear to capture professional headshots and make money doing what you love. The true art of headshots is making the talent feel comfortable. Focus on that. The gear part is easy. It is really cut and dry. #iamyourcameraguy
1/60 and f2.8? Generally you want to be at sync speed (1/200 - 1/250) and f5.6 - f8 to ensure sharpest results and ensure no ambient light is affecting the shot. When i set up, i am tethered, and i make sure those settings, combined with raising exposure by 2-3stops in capture one, still gives me a black frame. That ensures ambient isn’t creeping in. Then adjust flash power.
Thanks for your input! Typically I’m always taking these without a paper background, so I want the DOF & separation for the subject which is why I do around 2.8. 1/60 is fast enough in my experience, but yes faster to cut out ambient, plus with internal stabilization the shot will be sharp. Thanks for watching!
A kit lens like the 18-55 would be a good starting point for sure. You could also pick up an affordable 50mm prime lens as well for a more ideal headshot/portrait lens. And yes, RAW only!
Hey! For doing just single headshots, a 5-6 ft is plenty. Definitely get bigger like 9-10ft if there’s multiple people or wider shots. I got mine from my local camera store, but you can get the same ones on Amazon. I think I have something similar to this! Thanks for watching ! amzn.to/3Q20DaQ
Hey man! I guess it depends on your camera. I used AF on the 5d mark iv, and do now on my R6. Makes it much easier to recompose your shot and keep eye tracking on. Thanks for watching!
50mm at the minimum! A 50mm prime lens is perfect for the stuff, or an 85mm and so on. However, the more zoomed in of a lens you use like 85, 105, etc, the “bigger” a person may appear, so I find 50mm is my go to normally. As far as distance, you’re only like 4-5 ft away I think, like I just frame them like the headshot should look. If anything, a little wider to be able to crop in. thanks for watching!
Thanks so much! It’s called “Camera Connect” and the icon is a camera and the canon logo! I think it might only be compatible with canon cameras, but not 100% on that. Thanks for watching!
Window light is the best lighting you can get. Your ISO. determine the intensity and quality of the lighting. The modifiers try to mimic window light and over cast day. Yes you don’t have the power the light but with practice you can master this style of light. Flash And continuous light has a different quality and you can modify the with the type of diffuser you use
Hey Anthony! Thanks for your input. So how would you shoot a group photo or headshot in an office building that has almost no natural light? Or even in my office where it’s pretty dark without lighting. As someone who only shot natural light for years, understanding lighting and being able to have full control with quality results in any scene has been best overall. Not to say I only use lighting ever time, but if the scene looks better/more professional with it, then I will. Plus this magbox setup doesn’t have the best diffusion, now I use a double diffused soft box with a nicer flash and the results are great. Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo I use a two light set up for group shots and. For headshots I use one one light and a reflector. I have been shooting on a budget for years
Hey! Yes. I had to do that because otherwise my room was pretty dark, wasn’t affecting the light for the headshot examples though. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for watching!
you can tap focus on the app like you would if you were behind the camera! so I have it on face detect and then a 2 second timer to take the photo. Works great! Thanks for watching
Hey Andrei, great video, thank you! Quick question, I didn't see in your gear breakdown in the description what background support system and background type you were using? Thanks again!
Thanks so much! I use just a cheap backdrop stand system and a 5ft grey paper roll. All can be found on Amazon. This isn't the exact backdrop stand I use, but probably better than what I have. Thanks for watching! amzn.to/4c3Rs3f
Dude! Thank you this video helped me out a lot. I am about shoot my first paid headshot job and need to figure out how I am going to light these people. Would love to see what you have to say about pricing. I subscribed to return and provide an update :)
Hey Nabeel! Glad you found the video valuable! Definitely, check out this video where I showcase the pricing model I use! ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
What kind of light do you have on when you were actually taking the photo? I could tell you turned off the video light, but what other light source was on? It didn't seem to be an issue for the headshot itself, so I'm curious what it was - bright enough your camera could find your face and focus on it, low enough to not bother the shot.
Sure thing! Pretty at this time I was using a speed light through a mag box, which is just a softbox with a magnetic attachment. I don’t use that system anymore but I still use the same concept for photoshoots like these with clients. I use a godox ad200pro through a ez glow 42in beauty dish softbox. Thanks for watching!
I got this one locally from a camera shop called Houston Camera Exchange. But I'm pretty sure you can get them on amazon too, pretty sure this is it if not super similar! amzn.to/40EtyXA
For the most part yes, but not as "dramatic" as some of the photos taken that way can be. Typically more flattering and softer shadows. Thanks for watching!
Hey Peter! I haven’t actually used an umbrella setup, only softboxes. I like using soft boxes because you can control the diffusion and it’s more directed at your subject. Umbrella probably had less diffusion control. Thanks for watching!
It works well, but not as adjustable as a full light since it’s based on the power of your key light. To adjust the effect of the reflector, all you can do is get closer or farther. But honestly works fine for me. Thanks for watching!
Hey! No, typically I’ll ask ahead of time what kind of background they want, whether it’s dark grey, white, or if they want it to be transparent. Unless they specifically request multiple background colors
Hey! Thanks so much, yes I do! Here ya go: Editing headshots: ruclips.net/video/JJCTOHutxDw/видео.html Pricing breakdown: ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
What background are u using? It looks like paper but I am specifically asking for the brand and the exact color. Would really appreciate the information
It’s a dark grey paper roll from a local photography shop that I got a long time ago. Pretty sure any dark grey backdrop from any brand, like savage, would probably be really close!
Thanks so much! This is the tripod I’m using now. Great for anything honestly, unless you need a heavy duty one. Manfrotto befree advanced amzn.to/3qI2l4L
What do you teach your clients about their expression ? Lighting is easy ! Its all about the expression and doing more than just telling clients to "smile"
Totally. This video was definitely more on the technical side for sure. But I typically start by engaging them in natural conversation about their day to get them feeling more comfortable and stress that this will be quick and easy. Then I have them face the camera and draw out different expressions by directing them! How about you? Tips you’d like to share?
@@AndreiRestrepo You bet, being comfortable is soooo important for most of my clients. I like working out peoples best side using their bigger eye, the hair part and the side of their mouth that they smile out of first. Getting rid of those pesky double and triple chins is also important !
Two question, do you feel a Sony ev z10 can be used for headshot as long as I have a prime lens? If you aren't home what gear do you normally take with you?
I think so! Not too familiar with that camera but I’m sure it takes good enough photos for sure. And yes, I’d use a 50mm prime lens to start off with it. Typically just my camera, lens, the one off camera flash and softbox setup and that’s it. If they want a paper roll background, then that too.
Great informative video! Question? I saw that you had some clips on in office headshots with ambient lighting. Do you have a video on that or info/tips you can share with those settings?
Hey! Thanks for the feedback! Yeah those settings are a little tougher to shoot in. Basically the best route is to over power the ambient lighting if you don't want it to affect your shot. In some examples where I've done headshots in offices, luckily they had daylight balanced lighting so it helped fill the room actually. Best bet is to turn off the overhead lights, and work with the ambient window light or try to block it out as well. Let me know if you have any questions, Thanks for watching !
I noticed you had the x1t(trigger) how did you like that? I have the x2t and its a real hit or miss, some days its great and some days it completely sucks
It’s ok! Worked pretty well but the screen was hard to read and the scroll wheel for changing power wasn’t the best. Now I use the xpro-c and really like it. Bigger display and better functionality. Here’s the link to it! amzn.to/3vBcDYg
*Great informative review 👍✨ ✨ ✨* I use glasses what is the best position for the softbox for the glasses and what percentage of lighting to use for youtube video studio shooting ? I use the godox sl60w Thanks
Hey! Thanks so much, appreciate it! Ahh yes, took me a bit ti figure that out! You want as much as diffusion as possible first off, that way you also don’t get harsh shadows from your glasses. Next, you want to make sure your softbox is above your eye level by a little bit and depending on where your cameras position is. I use an aputure 120D and typically have it at 50-70%. Thanks for watching!
Thanks Brian! It’s just a 6ft dark grey paper roll from my local camera store. Here’s something similar - amzn.to/3D7oY8w The backdrop stand is also a cheap set that gets the job done, have it linked in my description if you’re interested!
I think I've seen every item on your lists, but I haven't found (or I missed it?) the app you're using on your phone to do the selfies with. 'Sorry if I'm blind and didn't see it. I use Android phones. Your video was very good with the BTS. Thanks!
Hey! Sorry, I don’t have the app linked! Good idea to have it there. For canon cameras, it’s called “CameraConnect” with a canon camera on the app. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching
There are a lot more less expensive soft boxes mag mod over prices there is one just like It for $53 dollars and with a ring light you can’t get the shot if your shooting through it
Hey! You’re right, I’m actually uploading a video tomorrow about lighting and showcasing an affordable $70 softbox, so there are definitely other options. I’ve used a ring light in the past having it off to the side at a low power ti still be soft before getting better lighting. Not ideal, but worked in the beginning, simply why I mentioned it. Thanks for watching!
Great video, Andrei! Thanks for the tips and inspiration. I am a headshot photographer in Harker Heights, TX. Found your channel today. Great content. Keep it coming! #iamyourcameraguy
Great video thank you! Couple questions, can you elaborate about like extension cords, stool/chair, and tethering your camera to your laptop (do you need this)? Also, your subject wants stylized/action shots around their office how do you light that without bringing your lights and replugging it back in?
Hey! Thanks for the feedback. I don’t do live tethering, simply showing them on my camera screen is a good enough reference and sometimes enough to even choose their favorites on location. I’ll typically use my off camera flash setup running through a softbox and just move that around or have an assistant with me for the day. Let me know if you have any other questions !
Yeah definitely. Over time I’ve learned just having a bunch of cues or phrases to pull out different facial expressions is best. Directing them as much as a can to try and get a candid natural smile and not forced. Thanks for watching !
Nice. May have to give this a go. What a great way to get more RE Shoots too. Im also a Realtor and remember paying between $100-125 for headshots. What are you charging? Im sure it varies per state.
Hey Richard! Yep, it's a great add on for me too when a realtor needs listing content done and then also a headshot. Pretty average price here too! Thanks for watching!
It's dark grey paper roll that I bought from my local camera store! Definitely affects the image, I simply prefer darker backgrounds, pretty neutral for any gig! The darker the background the less your subject might blend into it if they are wearing dark clothing too, just have to ensure you're lighting them correctly.
Hey! It’s called “Camera Connect” and the icon is a camera and the canon logo! I think it might only be compatible with canon cameras, but not 100% on that. Thanks for watching!
Great video! Trying to get into headshots myself. Quick and naive question. Do you use a wagon to haul equipment while on location? I have a camera bag and single light kit that fits in a backpack. But if I need to lug around a backdrop setup like the one in your video, a wagon would suffice?
Hey Steve! Thanks so much for the feedback. That’s a great question - YES! I couldn’t have gotten a wagon soon enough. I realized early on, especially getting into video work, how a wagon could make life easier lol. Absolutely recommend, always use one for lugging the headshot gear around. This is the one I have: www.academy.com/p/academy-sports-outdoors-folding-sports-wagon-with-removable-bed
I have the same one!! That’s the one that the head moves automatically to bounce right? I used that too, but now I just left it for event photography. I would get a godox trigger + receiver, that’s what I started with! This one: amzn.to/3wP0lej
Hey Irvin! So I don't really market myself at all with headshots. In the beginning, I did a couple headshot shoots and my clients posted them, I would get referrals from other people viewing them online. It was easier for me because I was taking them for the team I was working for consistently, so they pretty much marketed them for me. As I always say, just try and get portfolio content so you can show what you can do. Give someone a big discount or free for the first time to get it going. Thanks for watching!
Wow. This is a great video. Thank you so much for making this video. I have been struggling with the headshots so much for my brother's picture. I have a crop sensor camera (canon 600D) with the kit lens and a 50mm 1.8. But due to 1.6 crop factor, the lens actually becomes 80mm. Is it okay to use this lens? I don't have the budget to upgrade right now.
@@AndreiRestrepo Can you recommend me some good resources that can help me practice my skills as a beginner? I have been watching your videos and I really like the way you teach this subject.
Thanks! Hmm, honestly just finding a way to practice again and again would be the best. Along with other good video content on YT and finding some dedicated online courses
Hey! Thanks so much, appreciate the feedback and support! Totally, I got the dark grey paper roll from my local camera store, but here’s a similar one on Amazon - amzn.to/3D7oY8w and here’s the backdrop stand! Cheap but gets the job done - amzn.to/3za5nC2 Make sure to watch my second video in their series about Pricing and more on the business side of it! - ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
I always thought when doing a portrait, you should use a smaller aperture so you can get the whole face in focis. Why do you use a wider aperture, and why ISO400? I thought you'd use something like 100 so you wouldn't get any grain.
Hey! It's honestly totally subjective to you at the end of the day. Sure there are "rules" for portrait photography, real estate, landscape, etc. but ultimately it's up to you. Personally I choose to shoot these at 2.8 to have a bit of depth from on the ear and the rest, and even shallower like 1.4-2.0 if there's an actual location background. Also ISO 400 to not have your shutter speed so low. Even if you're on a tripod, you subject might move slightly and your subject could be out of focus or have motion blur, so I typically won't go slower than 1/100 or 1/60, which means bumping up the ISO to 320 - 400. With modern/professional cameras, you won't see any grain at 400, or even 800 on mine really, just test your's out to see what's best for your setup. Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo I'm so happy you answered. Makes me know you actually care about your viewers. Thanks for showingi me not to stick to one set of rules. Your advice makes total sense to me. Great video by the way. I like the way you explain things. You don't assume your viewers should be professionals already...haha. :)
@@AndreiRestrepo When using flash, your shutter speed is somewhat irrelevant. You can set it up to the max sync speed, 1/200 sec in your case, and use *whatever ISO you want with a caveat. Shooting slower, using wide apertures and higher ISO like this, you risk getting some ambient exposure contamination. Take a frame without the flash on, but with those settings to check your "dark frame". *Basically you don't want any continuous light contaminating the base exposure. The easiest way is to set your camera to ISO 100, max sync shutter speed of 1/200 at about f8-11. That will kill most or all of your ambient light, which you can retest with a dark frame shot, then just bump up the flash power until you get the correct exposure. Also 11:17 the power of the flash has NOTHING to do with its softness. That's relative to the size of the modifier in relation to the subject. The larger the modifier appears from the subject's position, the softer the light. Power controls ONLY brightness.
I'm sure I mentioned that not thinking about it but I do the same thing for men as well! Plus having them lean forward to make their neck slimmer. Thanks for watching!
With mostly realtor clients, we do more lifestyle/in the field based headshots. And I was always shoot wider to leave room for cropping. Thanks for watching though!
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Who takes Headshots?? Drop some more tips below!
Thanks for this really good video! I've shot many thousands of headshots and have a few thoughts I'd like to share. (1) I would not recommend a ring light as a cheap alternative lightsource for headshots. I see ring lights misused a lot. They are intended for very close proximity and for the camera/lens to be positioned in the middle of the ring. Also, they create a very distinctive reflection in the eye (catch light) which can look unnatural. (2) I might recommend a faster shutter speed than 1/60 second. A faster shutter speed helps eliminate effects of ambient light when doing headshots. Less of a problem if the ambient light is the exact same color as the photographer's lightsource. But if ambient light is warmer then you might end up with orange-ish highlights in the hair, etc. (3) Tip: If the subject is looking up toward the light (like in your video) there will be reflection in the eyeglasses. As soon as you take this picture, tell the subject not to move but to remove his/her eyeglasses and shoot the same shot again. In post, you can replace the eyeglass reflection with the eyes from the photo without eyeglasses. When done right it looks amazing. (4) Using the reflector to add some light to the dark side is a great tip. If you're on a budget, just go to an office supply store and buy a piece of white foam board. It's lightweight. It works great.
Hey Dave! Wow, thanks for the super informative comment! Yes, I definitely don’t think a ring light is a good cheap alternative, nowadays you can get even a powerful constant light like for video to do the job even! Great point about shutter speed and ambient light. Something I definitely look out for on location shoots, here I had no lights on and it was dark which is why I used it. Man, great tip on the glasses!! Never would’ve thought of that. I always just raised the softbox higher to get it out. Tip 4 for a foam board is always such a solid tip, great advice man, thanks!
Great advice!
Solid tips! Tnx Dave! 👌
Also have a couple of things you may find interesting. You should try tethering your camera to a computer running capture One. You can download a trial version of capture One but when you shoot the picture you can immediately see it on the computer screen and it's great. Next I would set your camera to the lowest ISO possible and set your shutter speed to the sink speed for your flash on most cameras it's usually 200 or 250. Next I would set my aperture to f8 and take a shot. Hopefully the image you see will be totally black which is what you want. This demonstrates that there is no ambient light interfering and you have full control of your lighting using your strobes. You also could get a meter and meter the space but the thing I learned from Daniel Norton's videos is that you want to make sure that you eliminate all ambient light in the room so that the only light controlling your photographs are your flash units. Enjoy and keep shooting.
@@dab7963 yes, and an another economic solution is to bring a 13 to 22" flat screen monitor and post it on a stand... (make sure colors are calibrated good on it) and plug in a quick connect HDMI cable (bungee cord) to your HDMI out on your camera to review shots if draging in a computer set up with a table etc. is not permissable or room is a factor...some cameras have wifi which can mirror onto an ipad as well
THANK YOU!!! I needed a short, to-the-point, video on how to do head shots (have some scheduled tomorrow)!!! I love the simplicity but with thorough explanations for each step. I am now a
'Subscriber'!
Glad it was helpful! Make sure to check out the other 2 videos I have on this series as well! Best of luck!
good info! im a new shooter about 15 months. i shoot with a Nikon D3200 and i started shooting myself using off camera flash using softbox and shoot through umbrella. im also a new youtube creator and i spoke on this for the beginners. all this info is valuable so thank you! Im not this far into my shooting, but its always good to stay connected to people who are passionate abou thier craft.
Hey man! Thanks for sharing, glad it was valuable! And welcome to YT. 🤙🏼 Thanks for watching!
Bruh! This is everything! Thank you from a beginner!
Glad to hear it, you’re welcome!
Thank you. Headshot photography is where I am going into for my side hustle. I am hoping for the best. Your video gave me enough confidence to start.
Hey! Glad it was helpful! It's a great side of photography to be in. While it's not the main type of photography I do with my business, a big chunk of it is still headshot photography that brings in quite a bit of income. Especially if you can land a gig shooting multiple headshots for multiple businesses!
@@AndreiRestrepo - Thanks for the tips! I am a medical doctor and I really need photography as an outlet for my creative side. 🤗
Very well composed and put together for easy consumption, thank you.
Glad to hear it, thanks for watching!
You did a nice job on your video he’s a professional piece of advice never shoot anybody in a white top!
Thanks so much, appreciate it!
Love how you explain the 1/128 light intensity 🙏🏼🔥
You're welcome! I start there and then add more power if needed, typically might end up between 1/16-1/8th power in brighter rooms. Thanks for watching!
THE BACKGROUND IS COMPLETE ! Looks great dood
YEAH! Still want a little light above it to make it pop a little more. But loving it!!
Good tips for headshots. Thanks for the video
Hey Chuck! Thanks so much, glad you found it valuable!
i love how pragmatic you are with the lighting. For sure, a ring light isn't the same as an Aperture light. But everyone is at different budgets/levels in their equipment. Work with what you got!
That’s right! Thanks for watching!
Do not use 400 ISO always base ISO unless the flash you are using isnt strong enough otherwise great simple video for the new guys
Hey man! Thanks for the feedback, appreciate it!
Thank you, super helpful!
Thanks Alex, glad you found it valuable!
I agree there’s only one sun
Free video thanks for posting. You going to enjoy that new goldocks trigger they really improved it from the first version.
Thanks so much!
Love this video. I come back to it time and time again. 📷👍😁👏
Appreciate it! Glad to hear it's valuable. :)
Absolutely brilliant video earned your self a new sub and you deserve farrrrr more thank you
Thanks so much, appreciate it greatly!
Keep the gear simple. I’ve been shooting headshots for 4 years now. That’s my overall lesson learned. You don’t need a lot of gear to capture professional headshots and make money doing what you love. The true art of headshots is making the talent feel comfortable. Focus on that. The gear part is easy. It is really cut and dry. #iamyourcameraguy
That’s right! Doesn’t matter if you have the best gear in the world if your talent feels awkward. Thanks for watching man!
1/60 and f2.8? Generally you want to be at sync speed (1/200 - 1/250) and f5.6 - f8 to ensure sharpest results and ensure no ambient light is affecting the shot. When i set up, i am tethered, and i make sure those settings, combined with raising exposure by 2-3stops in capture one, still gives me a black frame. That ensures ambient isn’t creeping in. Then adjust flash power.
Thanks for your input! Typically I’m always taking these without a paper background, so I want the DOF & separation for the subject which is why I do around 2.8. 1/60 is fast enough in my experience, but yes faster to cut out ambient, plus with internal stabilization the shot will be sharp. Thanks for watching!
Definitely would love a pricing and editing video to follow up
Hey! Appreciate the feedback, have that video on my list. Thanks for watching!
I will be doing headshots for my team this week. Thanks for your video, I picked up a few things from you.
Hey man! Congrats on your shoot, hope it goes well. Glad you found it valuable, best of luck!
Great video! Very good tips and to the point! Thank you very much!
Hey! Thanks so much for the feedback, glad you found it valuable!
love it :) ty for some tips
Hey Veronika, glad you found it valuable! Thanks so much for watching!
You are a gem
Appreciate the feedback!
What do you think about using a 18-55 lens for headshots and do you shoot raw or raw and JPEG
Thanks
MichaelDahmm
A kit lens like the 18-55 would be a good starting point for sure. You could also pick up an affordable 50mm prime lens as well for a more ideal headshot/portrait lens. And yes, RAW only!
@@AndreiRestrepo thanks so much
I appreciate your assistance and your videos
Great video! Thank you! 👍❤️
Thanks for watching, glad you found it valuable!
You gotta try Studio Gray! Best backdrop since its so versatile.
Nice! Mines some type of grey, is it lighter or darker than mine??
What size/type/brand photo backdrop paper would you recommend?
Hey! For doing just single headshots, a 5-6 ft is plenty. Definitely get bigger like 9-10ft if there’s multiple people or wider shots. I got mine from my local camera store, but you can get the same ones on Amazon. I think I have something similar to this! Thanks for watching ! amzn.to/3Q20DaQ
@Andrei Restrepo is it better to use manual focus or auto-focus?
Hey man! I guess it depends on your camera. I used AF on the 5d mark iv, and do now on my R6. Makes it much easier to recompose your shot and keep eye tracking on. Thanks for watching!
Awesome video Andrei, very informative. Thank you for taking the time to make this.
Hey! Thanks so much, glad it was valuable! Make sure to check out the other two videos right after this one about headshots as well!
Thank you!!! So inspiring
Thanks for watching! Glad it was valuable.
Great image! - Thank you for your practical video!
Hey Caroline, thanks for the feedback! Glad you found it valuable. 😄
what is the best focal length and distance from the subject to avoid facial distortion?
50mm at the minimum! A 50mm prime lens is perfect for the stuff, or an 85mm and so on. However, the more zoomed in of a lens you use like 85, 105, etc, the “bigger” a person may appear, so I find 50mm is my go to normally. As far as distance, you’re only like 4-5 ft away I think, like I just frame them like the headshot should look. If anything, a little wider to be able to crop in. thanks for watching!
Thanks for tips
Of course, thanks for watching! Glad it was valuable.
Another great vid. Definitely would be interested in a pricing and an editing video for headshots. Keep up the good work though!
Hey Isaac! Thanks so much for the feedback, appreciate it! Cool, I’ll add that to my list !
Only movie and videographers Edit. photographers process just like darkroom days
Definitely make a video for prices to charge! Great video and very informative!
Thanks, that video was helpfull for me.
Hey Arne, thanks so much! Appreciate the feedback!
I really needed this video! Thanks:) Maybe a video of how you edit headshot photography too?
Thanks for the idea! Glad it was helpful, thanks for your support!
Your video is so informative. I’m just wondering what the name of the app that you used to fire the camera
Thanks so much! It’s called “Camera Connect” and the icon is a camera and the canon logo! I think it might only be compatible with canon cameras, but not 100% on that. Thanks for watching!
Very helpful. Thank you. I use Mag Mod also. 👍
Hey! Nice, glad you found it valuable. Definitely a great softbox system!
Hello! Where do you get your backdrop paper?
Hey! I got mine from a local camera store but pretty sure this one on Amazon is super similar! amzn.to/3YZ6zEy
Window light is the best lighting you can get. Your ISO. determine the intensity and quality of the lighting. The modifiers try to mimic window light and over cast day. Yes you don’t have the power the light but with practice you can master this style of light. Flash And continuous light has a different quality and you can modify the with the type of diffuser you use
Hey Anthony! Thanks for your input. So how would you shoot a group photo or headshot in an office building that has almost no natural light? Or even in my office where it’s pretty dark without lighting. As someone who only shot natural light for years, understanding lighting and being able to have full control with quality results in any scene has been best overall. Not to say I only use lighting ever time, but if the scene looks better/more professional with it, then I will. Plus this magbox setup doesn’t have the best diffusion, now I use a double diffused soft box with a nicer flash and the results are great. Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo I use a two light set up for group shots and. For headshots I use one one light and a reflector. I have been shooting on a budget for years
Your voice is magnificent.
Wow thanks Elaine! 😄 glad to hear that, thanks for watching!
Everyone’s an expert
Thanks for watching
So you mention at 11:45 that you turned your video light to see at the scene, are you referring to the light source to your right?
Hey! Yes. I had to do that because otherwise my room was pretty dark, wasn’t affecting the light for the headshot examples though. Let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for watching!
Hi thanks for the video.
How do you manage focusing when doing a self portrait and an fstop of 2.8?
you can tap focus on the app like you would if you were behind the camera! so I have it on face detect and then a 2 second timer to take the photo. Works great! Thanks for watching
Thanks!
Glad you found it valuable!
Great video man! Is there a light in the diffuser box on the right? Looks like there was...
Hey Patrick! Yes, that’s my constant video light for YT videos. Simply had it on for BTS purposes it wasn’t affecting the example photos. 🤙🏻
@@AndreiRestrepo Great, thanks :)
Brilliant thanks
Your welcome, glad you found it valuable!
Cracking video thank you. I have difficulty with focal lengths and this made it so easy to understand!
Hey! Awesome, glad to hear it. Reach out if you have any additional questions, thanks for watching!
nice tips bro!
Thanks for watching and for the support Hanif!
thx for sharing!
Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching!
Hey Andrei, great video, thank you! Quick question, I didn't see in your gear breakdown in the description what background support system and background type you were using? Thanks again!
Thanks so much! I use just a cheap backdrop stand system and a 5ft grey paper roll. All can be found on Amazon. This isn't the exact backdrop stand I use, but probably better than what I have. Thanks for watching! amzn.to/4c3Rs3f
Dude! Thank you this video helped me out a lot. I am about shoot my first paid headshot job and need to figure out how I am going to light these people. Would love to see what you have to say about pricing. I subscribed to return and provide an update :)
Hey Nabeel! Glad you found the video valuable! Definitely, check out this video where I showcase the pricing model I use! ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
Hey :D Thank you very much for your tips in this video!! What color is the backdrop?
You’re welcome! This one is dark grey, but you can use whichever natural or neutral color you’d like!
What kind of light do you have on when you were actually taking the photo? I could tell you turned off the video light, but what other light source was on? It didn't seem to be an issue for the headshot itself, so I'm curious what it was - bright enough your camera could find your face and focus on it, low enough to not bother the shot.
Sure thing! Pretty at this time I was using a speed light through a mag box, which is just a softbox with a magnetic attachment. I don’t use that system anymore but I still use the same concept for photoshoots like these with clients. I use a godox ad200pro through a ez glow 42in beauty dish softbox. Thanks for watching!
Amazing
Thanks so much, glad you found it valuable!
I have a question.. where do you get your back drops from ?
I got this one locally from a camera shop called Houston Camera Exchange. But I'm pretty sure you can get them on amazon too, pretty sure this is it if not super similar! amzn.to/40EtyXA
Do you try to shoot Rembrandt shots or what kind of shots do you try to shoot
MichaelDahmm
For the most part yes, but not as "dramatic" as some of the photos taken that way can be. Typically more flattering and softer shadows. Thanks for watching!
What are your thoughts using a shoot thru or reflective umbrella vs the soft box? thanks for your video.
Hey Peter! I haven’t actually used an umbrella setup, only softboxes. I like using soft boxes because you can control the diffusion and it’s more directed at your subject. Umbrella probably had less diffusion control. Thanks for watching!
I need to do some self-portraits, its just feels strange, but a good way to learn without looking for someone to sit there for you.
Exactly! That’s a good way to put it. Thanks for watching!
How does the use of a reflector compare to using a fill light?
It works well, but not as adjustable as a full light since it’s based on the power of your key light. To adjust the effect of the reflector, all you can do is get closer or farther. But honestly works fine for me. Thanks for watching!
Can you do a tutorial on how you style your hair :)
Haha! It’s super simple, I just blow dry it upside down and then style it with a matte paste !
Do you do two background colors White / Black?
Hey! No, typically I’ll ask ahead of time what kind of background they want, whether it’s dark grey, white, or if they want it to be transparent. Unless they specifically request multiple background colors
I'm interested in the pricing model & the editing workflow if you haven't already made this video. Thanks for this video! Great tutorial
Hey! Thanks so much, yes I do! Here ya go:
Editing headshots: ruclips.net/video/JJCTOHutxDw/видео.html
Pricing breakdown: ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
What background are u using? It looks like paper but I am specifically asking for the brand and the exact color. Would really appreciate the information
It’s a dark grey paper roll from a local photography shop that I got a long time ago. Pretty sure any dark grey backdrop from any brand, like savage, would probably be really close!
Hey @Andrei Restrepo Awesome vid on headshots I got one question, what tripod are you using?
Thanks so much! This is the tripod I’m using now. Great for anything honestly, unless you need a heavy duty one. Manfrotto befree advanced amzn.to/3qI2l4L
@@AndreiRestrepo thank you!!!
What do you teach your clients about their expression ? Lighting is easy ! Its all about the expression and doing more than just telling clients to "smile"
Totally. This video was definitely more on the technical side for sure. But I typically start by engaging them in natural conversation about their day to get them feeling more comfortable and stress that this will be quick and easy. Then I have them face the camera and draw out different expressions by directing them! How about you? Tips you’d like to share?
@@AndreiRestrepo You bet, being comfortable is soooo important for most of my clients. I like working out peoples best side using their bigger eye, the hair part and the side of their mouth that they smile out of first. Getting rid of those pesky double and triple chins is also important !
Those are some great tips! Thanks for sharing man!
@@AndreiRestrepo No problems anytime !
Two question, do you feel a Sony ev z10 can be used for headshot as long as I have a prime lens? If you aren't home what gear do you normally take with you?
I think so! Not too familiar with that camera but I’m sure it takes good enough photos for sure. And yes, I’d use a 50mm prime lens to start off with it. Typically just my camera, lens, the one off camera flash and softbox setup and that’s it. If they want a paper roll background, then that too.
nice...thanks...
Thanks for watching, glad it was helpful!
Great informative video! Question? I saw that you had some clips on in office headshots with ambient lighting. Do you have a video on that or info/tips you can share with those settings?
Hey! Thanks for the feedback! Yeah those settings are a little tougher to shoot in. Basically the best route is to over power the ambient lighting if you don't want it to affect your shot. In some examples where I've done headshots in offices, luckily they had daylight balanced lighting so it helped fill the room actually. Best bet is to turn off the overhead lights, and work with the ambient window light or try to block it out as well. Let me know if you have any questions, Thanks for watching !
I noticed you had the x1t(trigger) how did you like that? I have the x2t and its a real hit or miss, some days its great and some days it completely sucks
It’s ok! Worked pretty well but the screen was hard to read and the scroll wheel for changing power wasn’t the best. Now I use the xpro-c and really like it. Bigger display and better functionality. Here’s the link to it! amzn.to/3vBcDYg
*Great informative review 👍✨ ✨ ✨*
I use glasses what is the best position for the softbox for the glasses and what percentage of lighting to use for youtube video studio shooting ?
I use the godox sl60w
Thanks
Hey! Thanks so much, appreciate it! Ahh yes, took me a bit ti figure that out! You want as much as diffusion as possible first off, that way you also don’t get harsh shadows from your glasses. Next, you want to make sure your softbox is above your eye level by a little bit and depending on where your cameras position is. I use an aputure 120D and typically have it at 50-70%. Thanks for watching!
Great vid!! What kind of backdrop is that?
Thanks Brian! It’s just a 6ft dark grey paper roll from my local camera store. Here’s something similar - amzn.to/3D7oY8w The backdrop stand is also a cheap set that gets the job done, have it linked in my description if you’re interested!
Андрюха, ты тута?! И я тута
I think I've seen every item on your lists, but I haven't found (or I missed it?) the app you're using on your phone to do the selfies with. 'Sorry if I'm blind and didn't see it. I use Android phones. Your video was very good with the BTS. Thanks!
Hey! Sorry, I don’t have the app linked! Good idea to have it there. For canon cameras, it’s called “CameraConnect” with a canon camera on the app. Hope this helps! Thanks for watching
Hi Andrei! I don't think you left a link to the backdrop. If you don't have a link do you think you could tell me the dimensions please?
Hey! Yes, I bought mine from a local camera store. It’s small, just for headshots or medium shots. Here’s a similar one on Amazon! amzn.to/3xYYl4k
There are a lot more less expensive soft boxes mag mod over prices there is one just like It for $53 dollars and with a ring light you can’t get the shot if your shooting through it
Hey! You’re right, I’m actually uploading a video tomorrow about lighting and showcasing an affordable $70 softbox, so there are definitely other options. I’ve used a ring light in the past having it off to the side at a low power ti still be soft before getting better lighting. Not ideal, but worked in the beginning, simply why I mentioned it. Thanks for watching!
Great video, Andrei! Thanks for the tips and inspiration. I am a headshot photographer in Harker Heights, TX. Found your channel today. Great content. Keep it coming! #iamyourcameraguy
Hey chris! Thanks so much for the comment, appreciate it!
Great video thank you! Couple questions, can you elaborate about like extension cords, stool/chair, and tethering your camera to your laptop (do you need this)? Also, your subject wants stylized/action shots around their office how do you light that without bringing your lights and replugging it back in?
Hey! Thanks for the feedback. I don’t do live tethering, simply showing them on my camera screen is a good enough reference and sometimes enough to even choose their favorites on location. I’ll typically use my off camera flash setup running through a softbox and just move that around or have an assistant with me for the day. Let me know if you have any other questions !
Poses are hardest imo
Yeah definitely. Over time I’ve learned just having a bunch of cues or phrases to pull out different facial expressions is best. Directing them as much as a can to try and get a candid natural smile and not forced. Thanks for watching !
Great job Andrei!! Very helpful and well explained. Thank You
Glad it was helpful! Thanks so much for checking it out!
Nice. May have to give this a go. What a great way to get more RE Shoots too. Im also a Realtor and remember paying between $100-125 for headshots. What are you charging? Im sure it varies per state.
Hey Richard! Yep, it's a great add on for me too when a realtor needs listing content done and then also a headshot. Pretty average price here too! Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo Looks like a good set up. What is the roll out background? Does a light or dark color matter? Im assuming it affects the flash a bit?
It's dark grey paper roll that I bought from my local camera store! Definitely affects the image, I simply prefer darker backgrounds, pretty neutral for any gig! The darker the background the less your subject might blend into it if they are wearing dark clothing too, just have to ensure you're lighting them correctly.
@@AndreiRestrepo Makes sense. I love flash so dark it is. Thanks
What is the app used to make sure your camera settings are set correctly with the flash strength needed 🙏
Hey! It’s called “Camera Connect” and the icon is a camera and the canon logo! I think it might only be compatible with canon cameras, but not 100% on that. Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo I have a canon thank you !!
Which app do you use for remote photography? Canon's app keeps dropping out for me.
I just used that one for this example, typically works fine for me. :/
Great video! Trying to get into headshots myself. Quick and naive question. Do you use a wagon to haul equipment while on location? I have a camera bag and single light kit that fits in a backpack. But if I need to lug around a backdrop setup like the one in your video, a wagon would suffice?
Hey Steve! Thanks so much for the feedback. That’s a great question - YES! I couldn’t have gotten a wagon soon enough. I realized early on, especially getting into video work, how a wagon could make life easier lol. Absolutely recommend, always use one for lugging the headshot gear around. This is the one I have: www.academy.com/p/academy-sports-outdoors-folding-sports-wagon-with-removable-bed
@@AndreiRestrepo Awesome! Thank you. Much appreciated. 🙏🏻
I have Canon 470EX - AI flash gun but..I have no idea which trigger and receiver supporting this flash gun..so please tell me. What to do?
I have the same one!! That’s the one that the head moves automatically to bounce right? I used that too, but now I just left it for event photography. I would get a godox trigger + receiver, that’s what I started with! This one: amzn.to/3wP0lej
I just have one question bro how do you market yourself?
Hey Irvin! So I don't really market myself at all with headshots. In the beginning, I did a couple headshot shoots and my clients posted them, I would get referrals from other people viewing them online. It was easier for me because I was taking them for the team I was working for consistently, so they pretty much marketed them for me. As I always say, just try and get portfolio content so you can show what you can do. Give someone a big discount or free for the first time to get it going. Thanks for watching!
Wow. This is a great video. Thank you so much for making this video. I have been struggling with the headshots so much for my brother's picture. I have a crop sensor camera (canon 600D) with the kit lens and a 50mm 1.8. But due to 1.6 crop factor, the lens actually becomes 80mm. Is it okay to use this lens? I don't have the budget to upgrade right now.
Hey! Thanks so much. That’s how I started! Totally fine to use your 50mm, even with the crop! Might actually look better. 👍🏻
@@AndreiRestrepo Can you recommend me some good resources that can help me practice my skills as a beginner? I have been watching your videos and I really like the way you teach this subject.
Thanks! Hmm, honestly just finding a way to practice again and again would be the best. Along with other good video content on YT and finding some dedicated online courses
what Mic do you use in this video?
I use a Rode Video Mic Pro + for my studio shots! Thanks for watching! amzn.to/3jqJvwg
Hey 👋🏾 may I ask, what type of backdrop do you use and also where did you get it from? I’m looking to start headshots. Awesome video 😩👏🏾
Hey! Thanks so much, appreciate the feedback and support! Totally, I got the dark grey paper roll from my local camera store, but here’s a similar one on Amazon - amzn.to/3D7oY8w and here’s the backdrop stand! Cheap but gets the job done - amzn.to/3za5nC2 Make sure to watch my second video in their series about Pricing and more on the business side of it! - ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html
Thanks for the tips! Do you have links for the stands and backdrop?
… found it!
Awesome, thanks for watching!
Wondering what this video was shot on?
Pretty sure my canon R6! Now I use the mark ii version. Thanks for watching!
What price point do you charge for single head shot vs maybe 10 head shots for an office?
around $100-$150 / headshot vs $75-$125 for multiple !
❣️❣️❣️❣️❣️
I always thought when doing a portrait, you should use a smaller aperture so you can get the whole face in focis. Why do you use a wider aperture, and why ISO400? I thought you'd use something like 100 so you wouldn't get any grain.
Hey! It's honestly totally subjective to you at the end of the day. Sure there are "rules" for portrait photography, real estate, landscape, etc. but ultimately it's up to you. Personally I choose to shoot these at 2.8 to have a bit of depth from on the ear and the rest, and even shallower like 1.4-2.0 if there's an actual location background. Also ISO 400 to not have your shutter speed so low. Even if you're on a tripod, you subject might move slightly and your subject could be out of focus or have motion blur, so I typically won't go slower than 1/100 or 1/60, which means bumping up the ISO to 320 - 400. With modern/professional cameras, you won't see any grain at 400, or even 800 on mine really, just test your's out to see what's best for your setup. Thanks for watching!
@@AndreiRestrepo I'm so happy you answered. Makes me know you actually care about your viewers. Thanks for showingi me not to stick to one set of rules. Your advice makes total sense to me. Great video by the way. I like the way you explain things. You don't assume your viewers should be professionals already...haha. :)
@@AndreiRestrepo When using flash, your shutter speed is somewhat irrelevant. You can set it up to the max sync speed, 1/200 sec in your case, and use *whatever ISO you want with a caveat. Shooting slower, using wide apertures and higher ISO like this, you risk getting some ambient exposure contamination. Take a frame without the flash on, but with those settings to check your "dark frame". *Basically you don't want any continuous light contaminating the base exposure. The easiest way is to set your camera to ISO 100, max sync shutter speed of 1/200 at about f8-11. That will kill most or all of your ambient light, which you can retest with a dark frame shot, then just bump up the flash power until you get the correct exposure. Also 11:17 the power of the flash has NOTHING to do with its softness. That's relative to the size of the modifier in relation to the subject. The larger the modifier appears from the subject's position, the softer the light. Power controls ONLY brightness.
i just sub can you used a canon r6
Thanks! Yes, I use an R6 now, but in this video I was using a 5d mark iv. Thanks for watching and the support!
Can you help me pricing 😢
Hey! I cover a bit of that in this video: ruclips.net/video/2l6NsuzbkSY/видео.html it’s a follow up to this one, thanks for watching!
Great video...except for the spot where you mention a hack for making women look slimmer. Why just women?
I'm sure I mentioned that not thinking about it but I do the same thing for men as well! Plus having them lean forward to make their neck slimmer. Thanks for watching!
Most of the photos you included in your video are not head shots.
With mostly realtor clients, we do more lifestyle/in the field based headshots. And I was always shoot wider to leave room for cropping. Thanks for watching though!