Behind the Scenes of a Headshot Session at Deborah Heinlen Photography

If you've ever wondered what it's like to step in front of the camera at Deborah Heinlen Photography, you're in the right place. Whether we're shooting in my home studio in Hebron, Kentucky or on location at your office, every headshot session is designed to be professional, relaxed, and enjoyable.

Let's take a look behind the scenes so you know exactly what to expect during your own studio or corporate headshot session.

A Comfortable and Welcoming Experience

Most people arrive feeling a little nervous. Sometimes even dreading the process. This is completely normal. It's also why I designed my home studio to feel warm, inviting, and nothing like a traditional commercial photography space.

When clients arrive, I offer coffee, tea, or water, and we spend a few minutes talking before picking up the camera. If I'm photographing your team at your workplace, I bring the same relaxed energy with me, along with a portable version of my full lighting setup.

My goal is simple: to help you feel confident, comfortable, and supported from the moment you walk in.

Professional Lighting and Camera Setup

I shoot with a Nikon Z8 paired with a 70-200mm lens, always set at 92mm. This focal length creates the most flattering and professional look for headshots.

Lighting is everything in portrait photography. I use continuous LED lights arranged in a Peter Hurley-inspired triangle or a traditional key, fill, and kicker pattern depending on your style goals. This setup ensures clean, polished, and modern light that enhances your features without looking artificial.

If you want to see the process in action, I often share behind-the-scenes videos that show exactly how the lighting shapes the final image.

Real-Time Coaching and Tethered Shooting

Your session can be as quick as 15 minutes or it can be a more in-depth portrait experience. Either way, I'll keep shooting until we capture images you truly love.

I shoot tethered into Capture One, which means your photos appear instantly on the screen. You can see your expressions, receive posing guidance in real time, and make small adjustments that make a big difference.

Your favorite music plays in the background. And if you catch me dancing behind the camera, just know that it's part of my creative process.

It's More Than Just a Headshot

My approach is fun, approachable, and educational. I explain why certain poses flatter you, how small adjustments affect your expression, and why tethered shooting helps you feel confident throughout the session.

Whether you're an executive, an actor, a business owner, or someone who simply needs a polished photo for LinkedIn, I bring the same level of care and attention to every session. My style is grounded in authenticity, professionalism, and helping you put your best self forward.

Image Review and Retouching

Once we've captured your best looks, we review the images together so you can choose your favorites on the spot. If you prefer more time, I'll send you an online proofing gallery so you can make your selections at your own pace.

Every chosen image is hand-retouched with a natural approach. Color adjustments, blemish removal, and light refinements are made to enhance your features without ever altering who you are. Nothing fake. Nothing overdone.

Your final images are delivered in a private online gallery for easy download and use.

Ready to See Yourself at Your Best?

A great headshot isn't an accident. It's created with intention, expert lighting, guided coaching, and a comfortable experience.

When you're ready to elevate your professional presence, I'd love to walk you through the process step by step.

Schedule Your Session or Reach Out with Questions and I'll take care of the rest.

Watch: Behind-the-Scenes Video

This behind-the-scenes video gives a look at how I prepare my studio lighting before a headshot session and how that preparation helps clients feel confident and comfortable in front of the camera.

Deborah Heinlen Photography | Professional Headshots in Cincinnati & Northern Kentucky