Headshots don't have to be painful experience

Transforming the Photography Experience at Orendorff Studios

"I have to tell you - I would rather be at the Dentist right now."  

The amount of people who tell us they hate having their photo taken is astounding.  

We totally get it - standing in front of a camera can feel awkward or even a little intimidating.

That’s why we're dedicated to enhancing the experience, and we’ve developed some unique ways to help our clients feel more relaxed and maybe even enjoy themselves during their session.

Sometimes we receive new Headshot clients through online bookings. In addition to the standard questions like "do you have any corporate or brand guidelines to follow" — our other questions are designed to help clients begin to get comfortable and to make the Studio feel like a welcoming place. 

• Do You Want to Meet Caesar & Alpha? 
  Our two beloved rescue pitties, Caesar and Alpha, are a special part of the Orendorff Studios family! Some people love the idea of meeting them, and it can be a great icebreaker to help clients feel at ease. But if you prefers a dog-free session, Caesar and Alpha are happy to work from home that day. 
  
  
• What Kind of Music Do You Like?
  Research shows that music can help relieve anxiety and promote overall wellbeing.  But here’s the twist: we don’t accept "anything" as an answer! If a client struggles to name a specific artist or genre, we ask, “If you could see any artist in concert tomorrow, who would it be?”  Whether it’s some Classic Rock or Today’s Pop Hits, the right music can work wonders in helping clients feel at ease and confident.

Hopefully, these small touches shift the focus away from “getting your picture taken” and more toward enjoying the overall experience.

Why Professional Photography Still Matters in the Age of Cell Phones

It’s true that almost everyone has a “camera in their pocket” nowadays. With smartphones, anyone can snap a picture at any moment. While this is a great way to capture spontaneous memories, it doesn’t replace the need for professional photography—far from it!

Professional photographers bring experience, skill, and artistry that a cell phone simply can’t replicate. Here’s why:

• Quality Over Convenience: Cell phone cameras are great for day-to-day shots, but they’re not designed for high-quality portraits, such as headshots. A selfie or a quick snapshot won’t convey the professionalism or polish that a well-crafted Headshot portrait will. (And PLEASE don't crop your face from a Wedding group photo!)
  
  
• Technical Skill & Equipment: From lighting to post-production, professional photographers know how to bring out your best features, set up the right environment, and create a great final image. These are elements that require training and experience, not just a good phone camera.
  
  
• Preserving Milestones: Imagine hiring a photographer for a wedding or a major event. Would you want these special memories to be captured on a cell phone? Most people wouldn’t, and the same thinking applies to professional headshots. These photos represent you in a positive and meaningful way—they’re your first impression in business or as part of your person brand.

A Lasting, Positive Experience

Our goal isn't to just take a photo to check a box on your to-do list or fulfill a corporate requirement. We strive to create a fun and memorable experience during our Headshot sessions. Many clients leave saying "that wasn't so bad after all!" or "thank you for making this so easy."

If you’ve been hesitant about scheduling a Headshot photo session because the thought of being in front of the camera makes you uneasy, we encourage you to give us a try. You might be surprised at how enjoyable it can be! 

Hope to see you soon!

~Tim & Jen