After a professional headshot photoshoot, I create a private online gallery that includes all the images from the shoot. This gallery allows clients to review the photographs calmly and select their favorite headshots before any retouching begins. This step is essential to ensure that the final portraits truly match their expectations and professional needs.
1. Post-production: editing and retouching
After a studio headshot photoshoot, the images are still in RAW format. These files are unprocessed and require careful post-production work to reveal their full potential.
Photo selection (editing)
All RAW images from the session are shared with the client via the online gallery. Clients can take the necessary time to choose the headshots they prefer. Retouching only starts once the final selection has been made, ensuring that the post-production work is focused exclusively on the chosen images.
Photo retouching
Once the selection is confirmed, I begin a detailed manual retouching process. Retouching a professional headshot is very different from retouching fashion or artistic portraits. The goal is always to enhance the subject while remaining faithful to their natural appearance.
The work focuses primarily on light balance, contrast, and color accuracy. Skin retouching is subtle and respectful, limited to removing minor imperfections or distractions such as temporary blemishes, dust, or lint on clothing. The result is a clean, professional headshot that remains authentic.
2. Typical delivery times for professional headshots
In most cases, high-resolution final files are delivered within 48 hours after photo selection.
Photoshoots usually take place during the day, while post-production work is carried out in the evenings. This schedule allows me to dedicate sufficient time and attention to each headshot, ensuring a natural and consistent retouching style across all images.
3. Express delivery options and communication
Some clients have urgent needs, and express delivery can be arranged.
Whether for a last-minute job interview, a press publication, or an unexpected professional opportunity, faster turnaround times are possible. Clear communication is key: by informing me of any urgency before or during the headshot photoshoot, I can adapt my workflow and significantly reduce delivery times. In certain cases, at least one final headshotcan be delivered within a very short timeframe.
