The Need for Headshots - El Dorado Hills Photographer



It seems like everywhere you surf online these days, some platform is asking for your photograph.  If you already have a headshot, this becomes a simple task of uploading the image.  If you DO NOT have a headshot, then this becomes an arduous search through vacation snapshots to search out a photo that would be good enough to post.  Usually, the image will have a busy background or not totally be in focus.

Save your self the time and the hassle and have your photograph taken for a headshot.  The time you save simply searching for the right photo will be worth the cost.  Once you have that headshot, here are just some of the places you could use it:

1.  Linked In

2.  Instagram / Facebook / TickTok / Next Door / Twitter

3.  Slack / Skype 

4.  Website / Blog Posts

5.  Email Marketing

6.  Google Account Profile 

7. Speaker Panels / Presentations

8.  Email Signature

9. Business cards

10.  Contact Cards

If you need a headshot, whether in studio or outside in a natural setting, I can help you out.  Text me at 818-439-5290 to set up a time to discuss your needs.  Does your whole company need headshots?  No problem.  I can come to you!  Just give me a call.







Men’s Portraits - El Dorado Hills Portrait Photographer

Men’s portraits can be tricky.  As a photographer, it’s important to understand that taking men’s portraits requires a different approach than photographing women. Men have different expectations, concerns, and insecurities when it comes to how they look, and it’s important to be aware of those and work with them to create portraits they’ll be proud to show off.

So, how can you take men’s portraits that make them look and feel good? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Understand their expectations: Before you start taking portraits, it’s important to have a conversation with your client to understand their expectations. Ask them what they’re hoping to achieve with the photos, and how they want to be portrayed. Some men may want to look serious and powerful, while others may want a more relaxed and approachable vibe. 
  • Use the right lighting: Lighting is key when it comes to portraits, and it can make a huge difference in how a man looks. Men typically have more defined facial features than women, so it’s important to use lighting that highlights those features without making them look harsh or overly dramatic. Soft, diffused lighting is often the best choice for men’s portraits, but it’s important to experiment and find what works best for each individual.
  • Pay attention to grooming: Men want to look their best in portraits, so it’s important to pay attention to grooming. Make sure their hair is neatly styled, their clothes are pressed and clean, and their skin is free from blemishes. A little bit of grooming can go a long way in making a man feel confident and ready to be photographed.
  • Pose them appropriately: Men typically don’t have as many natural poses as women do, so it’s important to guide them and pose them appropriately. Don’t be afraid to give them direction and help them find a pose that works for them. You can also experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most flattering shots.
  • Props: I have discovered that props definitely help a man with posing during a portrait shoot.  Whether it is a chair, hat, book, jacket, it gives your subject something to do and interact with.  Try injecting a prop into your shoot next time to help with lost hands.
  • Retouch with care: Retouching can be a touchy subject, especially when it comes to men’s portraits. While it’s important to remove any blemishes or distractions, it’s also important to retain the natural look and feel of the portrait. Be careful not to over-retouch, and always get your client’s approval before making any major changes.
  • For this shoot, my client wanted some dark and moody images.  I went with a dark gray background with just one side light for a dramatic effect.




    What do yo think?  How do these rate for men’s portraits?  Would you want some photos of your man like this?

    If you would like to discuss a portrait session, you can contact me at:

    818-439-5290

    mn@michellenicholsonphotography.com

    Instagram @michellenic


    Seniors Photography Studio Portraits - El Dorado Hills Portrait Photographer

    I started out as a Family Photographer but have since completed some Senior photo sessions.  Young adults who WANT to have their photos taken is a welcomed attitude over the 2 year olds who really could care less.  I really enjoy working one-on-one with Seniors to capture their distinct personalities. I have been developing a cool and edgy chair to shoot Senior portraits.  I was ready to take it on a test run. My friend Connor, with @crhlighting came over to consult with me on how to light the scene which was a huge help. My daughter and her two friends were my models. I am over the moon at how the photos turned out.


    The colorful graffiti chair really pops against the gray background. We then added a little low light pink to change the background a bit.  This softened the image and made it a little more fun and girly.



    At the end of the shoot, we did a “family shot” of the three friends together.  These are some of my favorites just for the reason that they show the sweet relationship between the girls. It is not very often that high school kids have a professional photo shoot.  But in thinking back, I so would have loved a photo shoot with my high school friends. To capture that special time in life.  The girls really loved these ones as well.




    These girls were so fun.  They really liked being the center of attention and apparently, I “slayed” this photo shoot!!!   WIN!!


    Thanks girls.

    If you would like to discuss a portrait session, you can contact me at:

    818-439-5290

    mn@michellenicholsonphotography.com

    Instagram @michellenic

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