Dorothy Shi Photography, based in NYC, offers over 25 years of experience in crafting professional headshots for corporate executives, actors, and models. Dorothy is known for her personalized approach, ensuring each client feels confident and prepared, with a workflow that is "efficient without sacrificing detail". She specializes in modern executive portraits and authentic, casting-ready actor headshots, often utilizing fashion lighting techniques to create flattering images. The studio provides both on-location corporate sessions and studio shoots, with an Upper West Side location convenient to Central Park for outdoor options. Dorothy's process includes consultation, styling guidance, a relaxed session, and image review, with final retouched images often delivered quickly, typically within a few business days for... They even offer innovative AI-enhanced living headshots and video portraits for a dynamic online presence. Visit studio website
Scott Rosenthal Photography, located on the Upper East Side of NYC, offers professional headshots for corporate clients, actors, models, and personal branding. Scott emphasizes a fun and relaxed session, taking time to guide each client through posing, expression, and approachability. His goal is to ensure clients feel their expectations are exceeded, with one client stating, "You exceeded my expectations". The studio is open seven days a week, providing flexibility for busy schedules. Scott offers both individual studio shoots and on-location corporate sessions for teams. He is also a Peter Hurley Associate Photographer, indicating a focus on a specific, highly regarded headshot methodology. Visit studio website
NMSS, led by Nicolas Manassi, is an NYC-based photography service specializing in professional headshots and portraits that truly capture individual personality and emotion. Nicolas is known for his personalized approach, working closely with each client to understand their needs and preferences, ensuring the final result exceeds expectations. The studio provides a creative and inviting environment with excellent lighting, making sessions comfortable and productive. Clients frequently praise the warm and approachable demeanor of the photographer, who offers attentive and personalized direction. NMSS is committed to efficiency, offering an impressive turnaround time for receiving photos without compromising quality. One reviewer noted, "The photos turned out perfect and felt so natural.". Visit studio website
Tess Steinkolk Photography is renowned in NYC for creating authentic and striking headshots for actors, corporate professionals, authors, and musicians. Tess has a unique talent for putting clients at ease, allowing her to capture genuine expressions and create portraits that feel both natural and deeply personal. Clients often remark on her ability to "get the best out of you". With a keen eye for detail and artistic intuition, Tess combines technical expertise with a collaborative approach, ensuring every shot reflects the client's unique story. Her studio is a welcoming space where individuality is embraced, and she offers various packages tailored to different professional needs. Tess is also known for her classic black and white portraiture. Visit studio website
Keston Duke Photography, located in Harlem, NYC, offers quality headshots for personal branding, LinkedIn, business websites, and social media. Keston is praised for his professionalism and ability to make clients feel comfortable and confident during their shoots, with one reviewer stating, "Keston is amazing! He is super friendly and a true professional." The studio provides a spacious, clean environment with professional lighting equipment, including seamless backgrounds and various props. Keston's workflow is designed to be efficient, and he offers digital/lighting tech support and even photographer services if needed. While standard turnaround time for birthday photo sessions is 1-2 weeks, rush delivery is an option. Visit studio website
Put You On Stage is a premier photography brand in NYC, known for capturing life's moments with style and finesse, including professional branding sessions. Clients consistently praise the professionalism and charisma of photographer Kyle, who fosters a comfortable environment that allows individuals to be themselves, leading to natural and candid... The studio excels in communication and planning, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable process from start to finish. They are recognized for their timely responses and a collaborative spirit during the creative process, making clients feel supported and valued. Whether for personal branding or other significant events, Put You On Stage aims to deliver breathtaking images that genuinely reflect the essence of each individual. In reviews, clients often mention "Professional and charismatic photography". Visit studio website
Marc Tousignant Photography offers professional portraiture in NYC, blending a friendly atmosphere with expert guidance. With 15 years of experience, Marc, who began his career as a professional model, brings a unique understanding of posing and fashion to capture striking and... Clients appreciate how "Marc captures beautiful, creative photos effortlessly." His clean aesthetic approach has led to his work being featured in numerous international magazines and collaborations... Marc ensures a professional and comfortable experience, delivering photos promptly, often by the following evening, reflecting strong artistry and clear direction. Visit studio website
William Wilder Photography, located in Harlem, NYC, offers a relaxed and cozy atmosphere for capturing authentic portraits. The studio aims to create a supportive vibe that encourages natural expression, with sessions focused on highlighting individual personality through smooth, professional processes. Clients have expressed satisfaction, noting, "I loved how the photos showed the real me." While the website primarily showcases family and maternity photography by Whitney Wilder,... They also provide professional photo editing and retouching services to enhance the quality of images. Visit studio website
Mansi Studios, based in New York City, is highly recommended for its exceptional photography services, known for capturing moments with stunning quality and professionalism. While primarily recognized for wedding photography, their approach emphasizes a personal touch, attentiveness, and a calming presence, ensuring a comfortable experience for clients. Led by Chadi, the team is praised for their dedication to capturing beautiful, timeless moments and their flexibility. They are committed to efficiency, offering quick turnaround times in delivering photos and consistently exceeding expectations. Mansi Studios aims to create images filled with love and happiness, with an artistic approach that includes timeless black-and-white photographs. In reviews, clients often mention "Exceptional photography services with stunning quality". Visit studio website
Kelly Prizel Photography, based in New York, NY, is celebrated for her vibrant and inclusive approach to photography, particularly for weddings and engagements with a strong... Kelly is known for her ability to put clients immediately at ease, creating a relaxed and fun atmosphere during shoots. Clients often feel she is "the best photographer I could have asked for!" Kelly's workflow is professional and accommodating, ensuring a smooth experience from consultation to... She brings an art school training and aesthetic to her hand-edited images, capturing genuine emotions and beautiful moments. Her dedication to diversity and inclusion shines through in her work, making every client feel seen and celebrated. Visit studio website
Amy Milstein Photography is a photography studio serving professional headshot clients across NYC. Their work commonly covers documentary wedding photography, family photography, and event photography. Documentary Wedding Photography. Current Google rating is 5.0 from 29 reviews. The studio is near South Harlem (about 2.7 miles away). In reviews, clients often mention "Excellent rating consistency from recent clients". Visit studio website
South Harlem offers excellent transit options, with multiple subway lines like the A, B, C, D, 2, and 3 making studios highly accessible. When planning your professional headshots, verify building access beforehand, noting any specific suite numbers or elevator requirements. Weekday mornings are often ideal for quieter travel and smoother studio entry.
For the best results, aim for a morning session when both you and the natural light (if applicable) are at their freshest. Before finalizing your booking, always confirm the session duration, the number of included outfit changes, and the estimated turnaround time for your edited photos.
When seeking a professional headshot in South Harlem, comparing several key aspects will help you find the perfect photographer. First, evaluate their portfolio to ensure their style aligns with your desired look and industry. Next, clarify the typical turnaround time for both proofs and final retouched images, as this can vary widely. Understanding the usage rights for your photos is crucial; confirm whether they are for personal, professional, or commercial use, as photographers typically retain copyright unless explicitly transferred. Discuss the photographer's retouching approach to ensure it meets your expectations for a natural yet polished finish, avoiding an "over-edited" or "plastic" look. Finally, inquire about their delivery workflow, including how you'll receive your high-resolution digital files, often through online galleries or file-sharing platforms.
Opt for solid colors that complement your skin tone and avoid busy patterns or logos that can distract. Tailored, well-fitted clothing tends to look cleaner and more professional than loose or baggy attire. Layers and accessories can add versatility, but ensure your clothing is clean, well-fitted, and comfortable to project confidence.
Most professional headshot sessions range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the number of outfits, backgrounds, and desired final images. Shorter sessions are often for a single look, while longer ones allow for more variety and different poses. Corporate sessions can be as quick as 5-10 minutes per person for consistent lighting and background.
While prices vary significantly based on experience, session length, and included deliverables, expect to invest anywhere from $300 to $700 for a quality professional headshot in New York City. Some photographers may charge more, especially for extended sessions or additional retouched images. It's best to check individual photographer's websites for their specific packages and what's included.
For a polished and consistent look, especially for women, professional hair and makeup artistry is highly recommended. Professional artists understand how lighting affects appearance on camera, can minimize shine, and ensure a natural yet enhanced look, often reducing the need for extensive retouching. Many photographers offer this as an add-on or can recommend trusted local stylists.