FAQs
What is a “sitting fee”
The sitting fee is a charge the photographer charges for the initial (usually portrait or headshots) shoot. It’s the actual service of taking pictures. It includes creative work, time spent photographing you, and working together to achieve your desired photos, irrespective of print or digital file sales. Its main purpose is to make sure that clients are serious about purchasing photos at the end of the photo session
How do I schedule my session?
Scheduling a session is easy and takes less than 5 minutes. Book a session online or call before if you need more information. Once you book your session online, you’ll receive an email and text confirmation for your appointment 1 day and 2 hours before your session. You can reschedule or cancel online as well.
My plans changed & I need to reschedule. What should I do?
HeadshotDC requires 24-hour notice for booking cancellations, changing a session time, or arriving more than 20 minutes late. Accordingly, HeadshotDC will charge a fee of $200 for any session cancellation or postponement with less than 24-hour notice. An additional fee of $200 will be charged for any session with makeup/hairstyling canceled or changed with less than 24-hour notice. Please note that we may cancel the makeup session if you arrive late. Before you hit cancel, email us for help, or click the “reschedule button.”
Headshot or portrait? Which do I choose?
Headshots are a close-up style shot focused on your face. They’re great for professional usage, like on your resume & on social media. Portraits capture your personality and tell a story. They also can involve props & instruments for storytelling.
What is unlimited studio time?
Sessions average in time between 20 to 60 minutes. We don’t want to rush your photoshoot, and will gladly extend your session as needed to accommodate wardrobe changes and other components of your shoot. You’ll notice that our online booking system assigns a time limit to your booking. Rest assured that adding an end time is just a system requirement, and doesn’t impact your unlimited studio time.
What does real-time image review mean?
We’ve eliminated the need for proofs. An on-site photo technician will help you and your crew pick their best image on the spot. If you don’t like it, we’ll take the photos again!
What is the turnaround time for team headshots?
Image editing, retouching and delivery as fast as 2 business days. Retouching includes skin smoothing, blemish removal and eye enhancement.
What happens when we add new staff?
We understand your team is growing. We’ll take care of the rest. Have your employees contact us to schedule a 10 minute appointment in our D.C. studio. We’ll make sure their photo matches your team’s “look” to ensure consistency across your whole organization.
I booked my session. What do I need to know?
Great! We can’t wait to work with you! Headshot photo sessions are designed to be fun and easy. As we shoot, we’ll review the images together and by the end of the session you’ll have a selection of favorites from which to choose your final image(s). (And yes, it’s true. We make a mean cappuccino during every session.)
Any tips for my hair and makeup?
Having your hair and makeup professionally done are the icing on a good headshot cake. We offer professional makeup and hair as add ons, available during the booking process.
Ensure that your skin is matte. While most skincare products offer added moisture and glow, for your photo session, your face should be oil-free. Hair should be styled to your liking, but tame. Consider getting a manicure, and using lotion on your hands, arms and neck. Pro tip: Bring your comb/brush for your photo session.
How should I dress for my headshot?
Choose subtle colored shirts/blouses and dark colored jackets. Avoid patterns, bright colors or any items that draw attention away from your face. Make sure whatever you wear is well pressed.
How quickly will I receive my photos?
The typical turnaround time is between 24-48 hours depending on your session.
How can I use my photos once you send me the high resolution files?
After you’ve made your final image selections, you’ll receive access to high-resolution digital files and limited general licensing for the images. This means you can use them for printing, posting online and sharing with family and friends. Exceptions such as placement on products for sale and/or books applies and may incur additional fees. Contact us directly for more information.
Where is your studio located?
Our studio is located at 1401 Florida Avenue, NW in Washington, D.C., on the corner of Florida and 14th Streets. We’re conveniently located a few blocks from the U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo metro station on the Yellow/Green line.
Is parking available?
Metered parking is available on 14th Street and 2 hour street parking is available directly in front of the studio and along the opposite side of the street.
What COVID-19 protocols are in place?
We prioritize your health & safety. All of our sessions remain by appointment only, and for safety, we only allow one customer in the studio at a time. Our entire team will be wearing a mask throughout your visit. Our spacious, two-level studio allows you to keep more than 6 feet of space from the photographer at all times. Plus, our street level entrance means you don’t need to wander through malls, office buildings or enter elevators. We offer hand-sanitizer stations by the door and our single-person bathroom, and we’re frequently cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces.
Studio hours | 9 am—10 pm daily
24/7 customer service | 202.506.7218