FAQs
What should I wear?
I'd recommend bringing a variety of tops and necklines with you (no more than 5-8 options please!) and perhaps a jacket of some kind. Muted colours always work so deep greens, dusty blues, greys, deep reds. Darker skin tones also benefit from whites, greys, orange and mustard tones. I enjoy layers such as a white T-shirt under a darker (or patterned) shirt. I'm not afraid of busy colours and patterns colours so feel free to bring some curve-balls or something that really represents you and your style. If you have a look at my portfolio you'll see what works. But PLEASE don't feel restricted by the suggestions above and get in contact with any questions.
My best friend is giving me a makeover in the morning, shall I get a perm?
My advice is to avoid any major changes to your look in the days leading up to the shoot, getting your hair cut to near to the day can lead to 'new hair' syndrome. Equally keep any make up light as we can always add to vary your look. If you are not a regular makeup wearer don't feel obliged to wear any at all.
Can I bring a beard with me?
Absolutely, you are welcome to start the shoot with a beard and shave it off for a different look halfway through. But please don't feel obliged to make this distinct change, it isn't always necessary so think about how often you grow your beard out. No fake beards please.
How many photos will I receive?
After a regular length shoot (2hours) you can expect to receive around 400 proof images in the gallery. The gallery will be with you within 24hours. From the gallery you can choose 5 final edits (4 edits with the student deal) and I'll edit and return those final images within 14 working days. You are welcome to choose more edits than the allotted amount but there is additional edit fee of £20 per image.
Why only 5 edits? Why can't I keep all the photos?
Firstly 5 images is enough to create a broad portfolio for the acting/casting industry. Secondly the gallery images are proofs - unfinished images that need the final touches to make them pop. This could be blemish removal, toning, cropping - all the little details that go into making the images standout. Therefore the gallery images re unfinished work and it fairly standard for portrait photographers (or any form of photography) to protect their work by not sharing unfinished images.
So…studio or natural light?
I shoot using natural light in an indoor setting - no concerns about the unpredictable British weather. On occasion I use a studio lighting for backup and effect.
Where did you say you are based?
My studio is near Holloway Road, North London. In order, the closest stations are Holloway Road (Piccadilly Line), Highbury and Islington (Overground, Victoria Line) and Drayton Park (Mainline station).
Can I drive?
I have access to one parking space but it isn't always free. Let me know in advance if you plan to drive.
Do I get to review the photos as we shoot?
I prefer to keep shooting, the back of the camera isn't always the best representation of what you will see in your gallery. A back of the camera peek can sometimes lead to a distraction and a worry or concern about minor details. I hoe you'll trust me that I am catching what you hoped to achieve.
I'm really organised and got to the shoot too early!
Plenty of cafes to grab a coffee. I'll have a Flat white please - full cafe recommendations are on the info sheet that is emailed to you before the shoot.
Benkin? What a ridiculous name.
It's a short and not very exciting story, I'll tell you when I meet you.