A Peek on a Week of Headshot Photographer in her Brighton Studio

As a headshot photographer, there is something about capturing the perfect image that keeps me coming back for more. Each week in the studio is different—filled with unique faces and personalities—and that’s what I love most about headshot photography. While I have my ways to help people come out of their shells—especially actors—no two sessions are ever the same. Every client brings a new challenge and a fresh perspective.


A headshot photographer’s perfect shot

This past week, I had the pleasure of working with a brand-new actor named Lily Merchant. She’s just starting out in the industry and wanted to explore both her feminine and masculine sides in her headshot photography session. It was her very first shoot, and I could feel her nervous energy the moment she walked into the studio.

What do you think? I reckon this was a great session. But by the end of it, Lily had found her footing, and we got really strong images and very different-looking ones that she’d be able to use for a variety of roles.

What struck me the most was her decision to travel all the way from Dorset to Brighton for her headshots to avoid the hustle and bustle of London. I’m not going to lie, but I was dead chuffed to hear that. I agree; Brighton fits the bill on so many levels.

Then there was John Sandeman, an actor and stunt coordinator, who came in for a redo. He’s been a headshot photography client of mine for a while now and recently shaved his beard for a new role. His agent suggested new headshots to match his updated look. It’s always fascinating to see how a simple change, like shaving off a beard (I guess it isn’t that simple), can completely alter an actor’s look—and the roles they can go after.

Photos by Headshot Photographer Jacqui McSweeney 2024©

On top of that, I had Bruna Martini, a graphic novelist, during the week. This session was a bit different—it involved not just headshots but also shots with her published work. It required a bit more editing to ensure everything was just right, especially because these photos are meant to be sent out to the press. I love that kind of challenge—balancing the technical aspects with the creative vision of my clients.


The image is of headshot photographer Jacqui McSweeney's work with client.

A Headshot Photographer Obsesses Over Every Detail

Editing days are an entirely different beast. I often find myself lost in the details, obsessing over every pixel until it’s just right. I tend to spend a lot of time per image… I’ll probably edit it three or four times and hate it every time, and then start all over again the next day. My background as a printer in a professional lab has made me incredibly particular about color and tone. Like many photographers, I’m a bit of a control freak when it comes to my headshot photography.

Editing actor headshot on computer, client in pink top, by Headshot Photographer Jacqui McSweeney © 2024.
All in a week’s work for a headshot photographer.

Someone asked me the other day what editing days are like. Do I like to make tea or coffee, listen to music, or what? Nope, I need absolute silence. (I know, it probably sounds mad.) I even find it hard some days if there’s too much happening on the street at the studio and the window’s open (summer’s been challenging, particularly with the warmth we’ve had).

Between the silence and the calm, I really do enjoy my editing days. It feels twice as good when the final product is in the client’s hands, and they’re happy—all in a week’s work!

Last Call of the Week

Yeah, so that’s pretty much it for my week—it was great and I loved working with the clients. As I said, I also love the peace and tranquillity of editing days as well.

I hope clients like hearing a bit about the week and how things get on her for me. I hope your week was as good as mine.

Fancy a new headshot? Whether you’re local or just passing through, I’d love to work with you. Pop by the studio or drop me an email, and let’s see what we can create together!

By the way, don’t forget to follow Lily, John and Bruna—these talented creatives on Instagram. I know I am.

Well, I’m off. Chat soon.

Cheers,
Jacqui



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