What is Headshot Retouching?

by | Jul 6, 2023 | Blog, FAQ

Image retouching is a post-production service applied to all headshot selections. The retouching process designed to polish the image by removing blemishes, under-eye circles, stray hairs, yellow teeth, etc., or even remove or change the background of an image. ​

Basic Retouching methods are resizing, color correction, exposure adjustment, or defect removal. Advanced Retouching addresses more complex edits by request.

Photoshop is one of the most popular software programs used to edit images. 

Who does the retouching for your images?

Our retouching is done by the photographer, Erica J Mitchell, BFA and not through a third-party site or from AI services.

Roll over image for before and after! (Desktop Only)

Roll over with your mouse on the image above for an example of a before and after.

The image was previous unedited and shows the in camera exposure. In the final image the image has been lightened, stray hairs removed, removed any blemishes, shaped the face with classic dodge and burn techniques, brightened the eyes, and gave the skin a general smoothing effect by hand.

Basic Retouching

All images selected receive basic retouching.

This is to address the color, brightness, tone, and cropping of the image for final delivery. Additional elements are for attention to skin, eyes, teeth and distractions such as background elements or stray hairs.

For more complex retouching such as removal of glare on glasses we apply our advanced retouching techniques.

Basic retouching is enhancement of skin, eyes and teeth, adjustments to image exposure, and attention to background elements and clothing.

Some features of Basic Retouching include:

  • Exposure and colour correction
  • Skin smoothing and toning
  • Reducing shine on face
  • Teeth whitening & eye correction
  • Basic touch ups such as eyebrows
  • Blemishes & scars removal
  • Background clean-up
  • Image cropping

Roll over image for the before and after! (Desktop Only)

Advanced Retouching

For more complex retouching we offer what we call “Advanced Retouching” such as changing structure and form elements or adjusting specifics such as straightening teeth or removal of glare in glasses.

What is Advanced Retouching?

Advanced retouching are edits with major enhancement of skin, eyes and teeth, adjustments to image exposure, and attention to background elements and clothing.

    Studio Chair

    Some features of Advanced Retouching include:

    • Adding or removing large portions of hair
    • Removing pimples, blemishes, acnes, eyebags, etc.
    • Taking pieces from one photo and swapping it with pieces in another photo
    • Reducing skin imperfections like scars, wrinkles, birthmarks
    • Significant creases or wrinkles in clothes (please iron/steam your clothing)
    • Background removal or change of background colour
    • Advanced correcting of red-eyes & whitening the teeth
    • Adding digital makeup that looks natural
    • Creating a smooth “airbrushed” look for toning the skin
    • Making you look 30 years younger
    • Changing your clothing in any way
    • May include face reshaping or contouring

    Proof Gallery Selections

    After your session you are given a proof gallery using Dropbox with unedited images for you to make your selection(s) depending on what session package you paid for. 

    At Erica J Mitchell Photographer we offer basic and advanced retouching at no additional charge.

    Once selections are made, photographs will continue the editing process and be retouched and formatted for final use. 

    Before and after side-by-side

    Time to select your headshot!

    1. To make an image order, clients will reply to their proof gallery email and include the file number of the selected image of their choice. 

    The file number can be located in the file name in the Dropbox link below.

    2. If desired please include any retouching notes with your order. 

    All images are edited at a basic level, which is the standard retouching amount. If you would like more retouching to your image please feel free to provide specifics.

    Clients will receive Large Web and Print file formats delivered through Dropbox. Any additional images are $55 with the usage license included.

    Standard retouching takes 2-3 business days.

    Retouching, Background Change and Cropping Examples

    Examples of different colored backgrounds

    Examples of different crop options (horizontal by request)

    Have A Question?

    Visit our FAQ or Contact us to learn more.

    Interested in Working Together?

    BOOK NOW

    Tips For A ERAS® Medical Residency Headshot Photo (2023)

    by | Jun 29, 2023 | Blog, Client Work, FAQ, Headshot

    Headshot Shadow

    Who uses the ERAS® photo requiremnts?

    After medical school students will need to apply and match to a residency program in which they learn their chosen medical specialty such as Family Medicine, Pediatrics, OB/GYN, General Surgery, Pediatrics, and more. There are 154 specialties and subspecialties! —UT Health

    What are the ERAS® Medical Residency application photo requirements?

    ERAS® photo file should not exceed these requirements:

    • Dimensions: 2.5 in. x 3.5 in.
    • Resolution: 150dpi
    • File Size: 150kb

    “The Photo is most often used by programs to help identify applicants when reporting for an interview. Applicants must upload their own Photo in the MyERAS portal by selecting Upload New Photo in the Actions column.” says AAMC on their Documents for ERAS® Residency Applications page.

    Can I see a real world example?

    Our client booked our Classic Headshot Session at the Natural Light Studio. The Classic Headshot Session includes the studio rental, a 45 minute photography session and 3 image selections from the proof gallery.

    The studio provides ample daylight, rain or shine, to create one of a kind experience. There’s nothing more professional than a well lit headshot to attract potential recruiters, hiring staff, casting directors, fellowship program directors, or any other purpose for online promotion.

    ERAS® Medical Residency application photo requirement headshot examples
    Other resources: Terrific Shot, Med School Insiders

    Interested in Working Together?

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    How Often Should You Update Your Headshot?

    by | Jun 12, 2023 | Blog, Client Work, FAQ, Headshot

    How often should you update your photos, so they don’t give someone pause when you meet in person?

    Profile pictures should be updated every three years unless there is a significant change in appearance. Then, they should be taken sooner.

    “So, the next time you scroll LinkedIn, log in to a Zoom meeting, or even send an email with a thumbnail profile photo, think about how you want to be perceived, and don’t hesitate to use a picture that fully represents who you are.” says Wired.

    Headshot Shadow

    Our client booked our Basic Headshot Session at the Natural Light Studio.

    The Basic Headshot Session includes the studio rental, a 20 minute photography session and 1 image selection from the proof gallery.

    The studio provides ample daylight, rain or shine, to create one of a kind experience. There’s nothing more professional than a well lit headshot to attract potential recruiters, hiring staff, casting directors, fellowship program directors, or any other purpose for online promotion.

    1 image cropped in multiple sizes

    Grid of crops for headshot

    Your headshot image delivery includes multiple crops in two file formats for easy use.

    Learn more about Booking Your Session.

    Interested in Working Together?

    BOOK NOW

    Pricing and Booking for Corporate Team Headshots

    by | Nov 1, 2022 | Blog, Client Work, Company Teams, FAQ, Headshot

    Frequently Asked Questions
    About Corporate Group
    Headshot Sessions

    How much does it cost to book headshots for my corporate team ?

    Our corporate team headshot pricing depends on how many team members are scheduled per headshot session.

    View our pricing table below for corporate team headshots.

    This does not include gear rental, assistant costs, location costs or optional hair and makeup servies.

    Group Headshot Pricing includes 1 final photo:
    2 people at $240 each
    3 people at $225 each
    4 people at $210 each
    5 people at $195 each
    6 people at $180 each
    7 people at $170 each
    8 people at $160 each
    9 people at $150 each
    10+ is $145.00 each flat rate

    WHAT YOU’LL GET

    Each person will have a 5-10 minute session that includes one image selection from the proof gallery received by email to each person or Point Of Contact (POC) a couple days after the session.

    The proof gallery will have between 4-8 images to select from.

    After the one selection is made, the images is then edited and formatted for print and web.

    The images are then delivered to each recipient or the POC for quick and easy use!

    What extra costs are there?

    Other costs include gear rental, a photography assistant on site, hair and make up services, or location permitting costs.

    How much does gear rental cost for a group headshot session if needed?

    If artificial light is necessary, professional photography gear rental is estimated around $100.00 to $300.00 per day depending on the client’s requests.

    What are the location costs for group headshot sessions?

    The below pricing details are for location only, NOT the cost for headshot photography.

    Studio:
    The studio rental is included in your headshot session fee. View The Natural Light Studio↗

    Outdoor:
    Outdoor locations sometimes require permits for certain public areas, or the renting of scouted locations would allow for a full studio set up. This pricing would be dependent upon the location and permits. It is not typically recommended to do a full day outdoors as the lighting of the background/environment would be different over a 6-8 hour period. View About Outdoor Headshots↗

    Onsite:
    There is no location cost for doing onsite headshots. View About On Location Headshots↗

    What is the best way to coordinate group headshot sessions with the photographer?

    Typically headshot sessions are coordinated 2-3 people every 15 minutes, or one person every 10 minutes. We like to schedule in blocks of sessions. For example, we’d book 6-12 people each hour for 3 hours and take a 15 minute break, then repeat.

    How many people can be photographed per day for corporate teams?

    We booked 3 hour blocks that can photograph between 12-18 people with a 15 minute break between 3 hour blocks.

    For example, with two 3 hour blocks in one session, that’s 24-36 individual headshot sessions per day. That’s about 5 minutes per person.

    Do you offer hair and makeup services?

    We have an excellent makeup and hair artist by the name of Linda that we work with. Extra time is needed when considering hair and makeup. If this service is requested time and pricing can be provided.

    Can you provide an example of group pricing?

    This does not include the cost of hair and make up.

    For example, for an 18 team member headshot sessions at the studio the cost would be:

    + 18 individuals x $125.00
    + $500.00 gear rental and assistant if needed
    + (optional) $600 for a full day studio rental for set up, hair and make up and headshot sessions
    = $3,350.00 ($2,750 without using the studio)

    Can I see some examples of company headshots?

    Below you can view one of our clients company headshots, or click the link to view more company headshot examples.

    View Company Headshots Gallery and more details about our Company Headshot Pricing↗

    What if I don’t like my headshot?

    There is no charge for reshooting a session! 

    Do you offer a black and white copy?

    Black and white images are not included but are available upon request with no additional fees.

    What if I have more questions?

    Feel free to reach out to us! View our Contact page for more.

    View Example of Company Team Headshots

    For companies that are growing fast and hiring staff, consistent looking company headshots is key to a website presentation and the professionalism of your business.

    We use natural light and strobe flash for our headshot photography. The result are well balance headshot photos the illuminate each person that projects confidence, professionalism and friendliness.

    Interested in Working Together?

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    Two Types of Lighting for Headshots

    by | Sep 28, 2022 | Blog, FAQ

    Two types of headshot lighting

    for individual and corporate groups! 

    What is a natural light headshot? 

    Natural lighting or also knows as available light techniques are the main type of lighting we specialize in. 

    The manipulation of sunlight through either clouds, or curtains or how it enters a studio filled with windows creates a unique effect strobe photograph cannot make.

    What is a strobe flash headshot?

    Strobe flash photography is a classic technique that has been used in studios for decades using artificial light. It is very directional which limits the area in which the subject can move around. However, this setup can be great for single image headshot packages or team headshots.

    Natural Light Headshot

    Headshots in Studio

    The Natural Light Headshot example was made in our Natural Light Studio in Northwest Portland, Oregon and provides a consistent soft and even look for client’s hiring new employees or updating their personal brand headshot.

    Strobe Flash Headshot

    Cadeo Group Company Headshots

    The Strobe Flash Headshot was made with strobe lights with modifiers and was made on-location in Los Angeles, California and also allows the client to use the same set up for the next set of new hires. 

    Above is another example of our staff photographer Jodhi in the studio. On the left we are using natural light through our large windows. On the right we are using artificial light, a strobe flash set up to create this look.

    If you have any questions about our lighting styles feel free to visit our FAQ or send a quick message by visiting our contact page.

    For our full galleries view our Natural Light Headshot Gallery and our Strobe Flash Headshot Gallery.

    Interested in Working Together?

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    Take a Tour of the Natural Light Studio at Studio Northwest

    by | Aug 31, 2022 | Blog, FAQ

    Ever wondered what it was like to get to our headshot sessions?

    Let’s take a tour of the natural light studio we use for our clients located just north of downtown Portland Oregon.

    You’ll see:

    • the outside of The New York Building
    • how to get to the natural light studio
    • and inside the studio!

    The light and bright natural light studio located in NW Portland.

    Let’s take a tour of the outside of The New York Building, getting to the studio, and inside Studio Northwest.

    THE NEW YORK BUILDING

    The New York Building is located in just north of downtown Portland. Studio Northwest is located on the 5th floor of The New York Building.

    GETTING TO THE STUDIO

    Studio Northwest is inside the New York Building that uses a call box to allow guests to be buzzed in to use the elevator to the 5th floor. Rolling cases are great for transporting session luggage if necessary.

    • To locate the call box there is a metal call box on the outside of the building (facing north on the corner of NW York St and NW 22nd).
    • Using the callbox enter the code is 0017 to ring for Studio Northwest. View callbox location on Google Map
    • Once answered, you’ll be buzzed in for access to the elevator to take the 5th floor.
    • The studio will be down the long hall, the second to last door on the right, #511.

    Entering the Building

    The Studio is Located on the 5th Floor in Suite #511

    INSIDE THE Studio

    You’ll see large windows to allow the south facing light to illuminate the space. You can choose from a handful of background colors as options for your portrait.

    With a few light modifiers, a couple poses and you are all set with a new headshot.

    Scroll down to view the Beauty Station!

    Natural Light Indoor for Headshot

    Getting Ready and Hair and Makeup

    The studio is equipted with a private changing area and station for optional hair and makeup services. Enjoy getting ready with our beauty station that includes beauty lights, a full length mirror and an area to hang your favorite clothes.

    Headshot of Erica J Mitchell Photographer Portland
    Natural Light Indoor Headshot
    Studio Headshot

    Why Choose the Natural Light Studio for your Headshot?

    You comfort is paramount for a photo shoot, especially if you are taking a headshot. Working around cold weather or rain can distract from a relaxed image. A temperature-controlled environment allows you to bring your best to the shoot.

    One benefit of working indoors is that it’s easy to change outfits and try different looks. When you want to try this, be sure to check with the photographer and make sure your scheduled time can accommodate outfit changes.

    Our natural light photo studio has an area to hang up your clothes, dress, and do touch ups, so it’s very easy to try a different shirt or check your makeup.

    If you’re worried that a photo will look too plain in a studio environment, think again. The job of a headshot or portrait is to capture your energy and personality with a high quality professional image.

    The focus of the viewer will be entirely on you and how you come across in the photo. Background elements can contribute to the feeling of an image, but often aren’t required to get the desired effect. However, if you want some environmental elements, our natural light studio has both an office and living room setup that can be added to your image to give it a bit more ambience.

    While the weather and ease of working are great reasons to schedule time in a natural light studio, the light itself is a boon, as well. Some studios specialize in strobe light photography, which can be wonderful when done well. However, much strobe photography can make a headshot look staged or cookie-cutter, something you don’t want in a headshot.

    We work only in natural light where the soft and even lighting from our studio windows accentuates your personality and allows you to simply show up and be yourself.

    Outside photos are very often taken in environments where there are other people around. Even in controlled, quiet locations there is the need to work around the elements and the environment to get a great shot. In the studio, the focus is entirely on you and getting a great photo.

    Want to see the great results we can get from natural light studio photography?

    Visit our Studio Headshot for more examples that were made using the studio. With large windows to allow the south facing light to illuminate the space the result is an even soft light that makes each person shine.

    Interested in Working Together?

    BOOK NOW