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Tag: photoshoot in Los Angeles

Mirdon
April 30, 2020
Los Angeles Actors’ Guide to Filing Taxes in 2020

Paying taxes may not be one of your favorite activities to do. Everyone who has earnings pays taxes. Paying taxes is a responsibility, and although it may seem scary for most of us, anyway, it is something that we have to do. I know that the number of documents may seem scary, or the process may not seem very simple for you. But I am sure in time you will get used to it. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles who takes affordable headshots for actors, I would like to give a Los Angeles actors’ guide to filing taxes because I know that in this season, it is one of the essential things on your mind. Successful Los Angeles acting career is a dream for many actors. However, most of the actors struggle when the tax season shows up. It is essential to know that you are not the only one, and in some time, paying taxes will become a very usual thing for you. Take a deep breath, relax, and read my guide on how to make tax season less stressful.

About Taxes

Most probably, you already know what taxes are. But to keep everyone on the same page, let’s briefly recap. Taxes are an amount of your income which you pay to the government. The tax season is from January to April 15th each year. During that time, you, as a taxpayer, must prepare all the necessary documents about your earnings during the previous year. The records should include your financial statements. It is always essential to prepare the right financial reports so that later no other problem rises. This will make the process smoother, and in addition to that, you will be more relaxed.

For the Los Angeles actors’ guide to filing taxes, this is one of the essential parts.

Each year you may pay different amounts of taxes because it very much depends on the income that you get during the year. And maybe you will not need to file a tax. In order to understand whether you need to file tax or not, it would be very helpful to check out this IRS website. This is the Internal Revenue System (IRS) site, where you will answer a couple of questions and understand if the filing is a requirement, or not.

What You Should Report on Tax Return

One of the essential parts of this process is making sure to report on your tax return the right amount of income that you have earned during the previous year. You should pay massive attention to this part because the amount of tax that you should pay relates to your income. You should file from which type of job did you earn your income and other details about your job. In addition to that, you must also report interest income, dividend income, alimony income, Social Security income.

And if you have any other income from other sources, then you should report it. In this process, you must keep in mind that you must report everything honestly. Because otherwise, you may face some kinds of problems. If you are filing taxes in 2020 for the first time, then you must keep up with the updates, because there are things that may have been changed about what you should report concerning your income. Today, the most reliable source is the IRS website, so I am sure you will find everything you need there.

The Required Documents for Filing a Tax Return

The essential documents that you will need with you are your tax ID or Social Security number, a document which shows your income and any deductions. You will receive different kinds of forms depending on if you are an employee or an independent contractor. In addition to this, your form may vary depending on a couple of aspects of your income. In order to be more aware of the list, I highly recommend you visit the IRS website.

This website is beneficial for you to understand which documents are required in your case. I’m sure during the tax season. This website will be a Los Angeles actors’ guide for you. It is important to know that for each individual, the documents may be different. So if your actor friend has collected a certain amount of types of documents, it does not mean that you must also collect those types of documents. So, do your research.

The Importance of Receipts

I highly recommend you to pay a lot of attention to keeping receipts. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I always keep the receipts that have to do with my business. In Los Angeles, actors guide on filing taxes, this is an essential part to keep in mind. I understand that it may be hard to keep all the receipts that are related to your career, but in time it will become a habit for you. There are a couple of ways of keeping the receipts.

One of the methods is to have a special electronic program and, with the help of your telephone, scan the receipts into that program. Collect them in the folder, and be careful not to lose anything. This will prevent you from losing the receipts, and you will be sure that they are in a safe place. It may not be effortless at first, because you may forget about it, but I highly recommend you to make this a regular part of your life.

Other Essential Documents

You may not use them, but in order not to have any kind of problems. You may also have a copy of last year’s tax return. Maybe it will be useful, so it is a good thing to be aware ahead of time and be prepared. Of course, there is a chance that you may need a piece of particular information from there, which may be required for the process. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles who takes affordable headshots for actors, I know a couple of cases when an actor did not have last year’s tax return with him. And, it was needed in the process. And eventually, because he didn’t have it with him, different problems rose. This not only makes the process more complicated but also spends your precious time. So even if there is a slight chance that the government requires it, then you should take a copy with you. It is better to be prepared for every situation. I am sure during your Los Angeles acting career, you already understood how important it is.

Amount of Money That You Earned 

I am sure that many actors, especially the ones who are at the beginning of their career, may ask themselves, “What if I haven’t earned enough money?”. You have to step-by-step read about filing requirements and learn it. And, if your income meets the requirements, then you have to file a tax return. So, filing a tax is not a decision that you have to make; there are specific rules that apply to everyone. Everyone has to follow those rules, and if your income meets the requirements, then your responsibility is to file the tax return. So, even if you think that you didn’t earn much, I am sure this will be a motivation for you to make more next year. This may be difficult, especially at the beginning of your Los Angeles acting career. However, I am sure that hard work will pay off. You should start working hard right now. Here you can find useful tips on your Los Angeles acting career. 

Are Actors Self-Employed?

There are some actors who are self-employed, and there are others who are employees. If you are a self-employed actor, then that means that you are not working for someone else. For example, you can be a sole proprietor. There are also other conditions under which can be considered as self-employed, you can read more about it in the IRS site.

Considering President Trump marking the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), you might be thinking about whether it bodes well to enlist as an LLC, as the new expense conventions appear to be more business-accommodating than craftsman benevolent. That is something you’ll need to decide for yourself. For instance, in case you’re a worker and have representative costs, you won’t have the option to guarantee a finding for these costs—which fall under the classification of various separated derivations—under the TCJA until at any rate the year 2025.

Deductions

As a result of deductions, your taxable income will be reduced. Hence the tax that you should have paid will be lower. I am sure this will be helpful in your Los Angeles actors’ guide in filing taxes in 2020. There are two types of deduction, itemized deductions, and standard deductions. Each year the IRS sets the standard amount of deductions. You will not need to show some additional forms for that deduction, and it is a standard amount.

In the case of itemized deductions, it is approved individually for each person. For the Los Angeles actors’ guide in filing taxes, it is essential to know which are the criteria you can deduct expenses. These criteria are as follows: the costs are connected to your acting, it is necessary, and it is not absurd or wasteful. As an actor, you have to be honest and record only the expenses which are related to the criteria mentioned above. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, below, I will introduce to you which deductions you can state as an actor. 

What Deductions an Actor Can State

There are certain deductions that actors can state. The deductions are the same for every actor. An example of a deduction can be, business travel, and in this case, the transportation and staying expenses can be deducted. Another example can be the fee that you pay to your agent or manager. This type of expense also will be deducted. If you took any kind of acting classes, for the improvement of your skills, then that is also a type of expense that will be deducted.

Any type of property which you bought and was needed in your acting can also be deducted as an expense. If you need to have your makeup and hair done for a job or a headshot session that is related to your Los Angeles acting career, then the costs of it will also be deducted. This list is very long, and you need to carefully examine it and understand which can be applied to you.

What Will Happen in the Case of not Paying Taxes

If you do not pay your taxes, then there will be very harsh punishments. You may get financial penalties and even end up in jail. Of course, prison is the severest punishment, and it is a rare thing to end up in jail. But there have been cases, so I am sure you don’t want to be one of them. Not paying taxes on time can also result in punishments. You will face penalties that can be very harmful to you.

For example, your bank accounts will be levied, or your properties may be seized. So, the cost is very high, and the time to resolve the problem is very long. And it is every taxpayer’s responsibility to follow all the IRS rules very carefully. I am sure you will not want to have challenging problems. So get informed about the process and pay your taxes on time.

As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I tried to include all the necessary information for you. Make sure to follow all the instructions and find out information about the process. At first, it may seem quite complicated, but after some time, you will get used to it. Follow this Los Angeles actors’ guide to filing taxes in 2020. I am sure the process will be easier for you.

What to read next: “Coronavirus in Hollywood” or “How to Choose an Acting School in Los Angeles“

What to read next: How To Get Professional Realtor Headshots in 2022. Learn more about headshot pricing in Los Angeles. Click here to book a headshot session in Downtown Los Angeles. You can view more Professional Headshots | Los Angeles Headshot Photographer on our home page. 

 

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Mirdon
April 16, 2020
Photography Trends 2020

As we live in the 21st century, it is crucial to make sure that we follow the trends of our industry. Me, as a headshot photographer in Los Angeles who takes affordable headshots, I always try to catch up with everything new that happens in the world. This helps to develop my skills and provide quality products to my clients. Clients always look for something unique and fresh, and they want to have pictures that are one-of-a-kind. And the job of a photographer is not only to press the shutter button but also to make their imagination a reality and be creative with it.

Following photography, trends help you to be one step ahead from others and please your clients. It may seem that headshot rates in Los Angeles are relatively high, and one of the main reasons to explain this is that headshot photographers in Los Angeles always do their best to provide the best results. So, to have high demand in this industry, you have to be aware of photography trends and be able to use them in your profession. In this article, I will introduce to you the main photography trends of 2020. 

1. Vibrant Colors 

Pictures with bright colors help to grab the attention of people. Today, vibrant colors remain one of the main photography trends. As I am a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I always try to make not only trendy but also natural pictures. And sometimes, it may seem that vibrant colors are making a fake effect. But believe me, if you are doing it with style, it will catch an eye. If you are taking pictures of a client, at first, you will decide the style of pictures and then proceed to the photoshoot. If they like such kind pictures with bright tones, then I am sure you will have a lot of room to play with bright colors. When clients hire a photographer in Los Angeles to do photoshoots, they usually want to rely on their skills, and they want to trust the photographer’s sense of style. So don’t be afraid to experiment with vibrant colors. They are among photography trends in 2020.

2. Minimalistic Style 

Minimalism is always in photography trends in 2020. One of the greatest things about minimalism is that sometimes it can transform more meaning and feelings to the viewer than other pictures. Minimalistic pictures are always very compelling. It helps to focus on a specific object, and with the help of it, you, as a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, will be able to capture both emotions and meaning. Transforming some kind of idea or deep meaning through pictures is one of the hardest jobs of a photographer. Of course, it may not be simple at first, but as you master, you will notice that you enjoy taking minimalistic pictures. Especially when you are taking affordable headshots or fashion pictures, minimalistic style can create unique results. Right now, there are a lot of apps and tools which make pictures look overdone and not very appealing. So minimalistic style will make your pictures stand out.

3. Nostalgic Style

Especially nowadays, the vintage style is very trendy. Many people want their pictures to be in that style because it helps to have not ordinary pictures. The style of the 60s or 70s is very famous among clients. Also, this gives room for a lot of creativity. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I know that this will give you a lot of ideas. And also, there are a lot of different effects and tools which help to create nostalgic pictures.

For example, an effortless way to create a nostalgic style is the black and white effect. It immediately creates a vintage mood, and a little bit of creativity with clothes and background will create a total nostalgic style picture. It would also be interesting to mix vintage style with the modern style. If you do this moderately then, I am sure you will create one of a kind pictures.

4. Ecology

Right now, one of the main issues that the world faces is connected with ecology. Many headshot photographers in Los Angeles are trying to raise this issue with their pictures. And actually, they are very successful in raising awareness of such important problems. This became a photography trend in recent years, and many companies hire photographers in Los Angeles to take pictures for environmental projects. This helped to spread information to the whole world, and step-by-step make changes. One of the roles of photographers is not only to take pictures of different people but also help to raise issues through photography. And sometimes visuals can make more impact than anything else. So, another photography trends in 2020 is to choose some issues connected to ecology (and not only) and try to raise awareness about it through your art.

5. Symbolism

Symbolism is one of the most interesting and at the same time most significant or powerful tools in photography. Symbols help to transform a vast meaning, and photographers can experiment with it in different ways. This gives an opportunity to the headshot photographer in Los Angeles to express their thoughts and deep ideas in one picture. This is one of the most exciting photography trends, and the result can be exciting. I will highly recommend you to explore symbols and symbolism. It will help in the process of taking affordable headshots, and also it will be easier for you to make one-of-a-kind pictures. You just need to make your ideas into reality. Maybe you will work on one image longer than you did while you were taking pictures in other styles, but I want to assure you that it’s worth it. Here is a small video which can be a guide for you in understanding what symbolism is, if you don’t know much about it yet.  

6. Unusual Beauty and Raw Shots 

Especially in recent years, this photography trend started to gain popularity, and it is not losing its power until today. Nowadays, natural and unusual beauty is very much appreciated, and headshot photographers in Los Angeles are trying to include such kind of beauty in their photoshoots. This trend has shaped the industry, and now people are valuing natural beauty. Try to experiment with non-traditional things, and in the process, you will fall in love with what you do. This may be helpful while doing affordable headshots because nowadays, people hire photographers in Los Angeles to have pictures that show their real beauty without any additional attribute. This will be trendy for a long time because people are starting to value natural beauty more and more. 

7. 360 Photography Style

360 photography is one of the most exciting photography trends in 2020. This trend is especially beneficial for some kind of product photography. As the name tells, with the help of this technique, you will be able to capture the full product. These types of pictures are more appealing to customers. In addition to this, with the help of 360 photography, you can take magnificent pictures of different landscapes, buildings, or interiors. For example, if your client wants to take a picture of the room, you can use this helpful technique to show the room entirely. There are a lot of tools and technological updates that help to create such kinds of pictures. And also, it is always fun to experiment with new ideas and see how it changes the appearance of different objects, landscapes, etc. Here are a couple of unique locations in Los Angeles where you can try the 360 photography technique. 

8. Neon Lights

Neon has become widely popular, especially in the past couple of years. Clothing, neon objects, hair color is very much trendy right now. If you want your pictures to be famous or well-known to many people, I highly recommend you to use neon lights, colors or attributes in the photoshoot process. If you take affordable headshots in a neon-themed way, then definitely, you will have different results. Ultraviolet lights can make your pictures even more impressive and give it some kind of a vibe.

To make your pictures even more surprising, I recommend you to take photos at night. Because in the darkness, neon lights look more beautiful. For example, you can take a picture of an empty street and add neon lights to it. If you use neon lights correctly while taking affordable headshots, it will create a youthful atmosphere. And many people will like the energy that the atmosphere transforms.

9. Film Style Photography

It is exciting to notice how fast the film style photography trend is growing. As technology is upgrading a lot of new digital cameras are being introduced to the world. And every photographer tries to have the best camera. But even in the 21st century, many manufacturers are introducing film cameras. Today there are a lot of apps that provide many filters to create quick film style pictures. And even the most modern image can be transformed with the help of these filters. But the quality that film cameras make will not be comparable to any kind of filter. Of course, both film photography and digital photography create magnificent pictures, but for a professional headshot photographer, it is crucial to be a master of these both. 

10. Including All Ages

People of every age are beautiful and interesting. For every photographer, it is vital to make sure that with their pictures, they can capture the beauty of everyone and show their character. Many companies want to engage in their campaigns for people of different ages. This is part of the marketing activities because they want to show that their product or service is for everyone. The work of photographers is to show the real beauty of every age, and most importantly, demonstrate how the picture can be changed, when the age of a person changes. This idea is one of the essential concepts, which is very trendy now. For every photographer, it is important to include diversity in their pictures. Experimenting with ages is a great way to show creativity in work and help people to feel comfortable at any age. Photography can make a massive change in how people see themselves. So, as a photographer, you can make a positive impact on people. 

11. Showing Emotions

Emotions are one of the best friends of real and beautiful pictures. Headshot photographers in Los Angeles always encourage their models to show real emotions as much as they can. Firstly this helps to create a great working atmosphere, and secondly, this allows taking honest pictures. If you can successfully show the raw and real emotions of your client, then I am sure they will be very pleased, and your pictures will be very trendy. Encourage your clients to show their emotions and, at the same time, quickly take pictures of everything that they try to explain. You will get a lot of great pictures, and at the end of the photoshoot, you will not be able to choose which one is better. And, you will notice that at the end of the photoshoot, both you and your client enjoyed the process, and this is one of the most important parts.

As a Conclusion…

 

If you want to be a successful photographer, then it is crucial to make sure that you follow all the photography trends. As you may understand, some of those trends are not changing in years, but with every year at least one new trend shows up. Develop your skills and, at the same time, follow the trends and use them. You can even create your style or trend, and if it is good enough, I am sure it will become famous among different photographers.

One of the greatest advantages of the industry is that there are no specific rules. Your biggest skill is your imagination, and you should decide how you must use it. If you are a professional photographer and enjoy your job, then I am sure you will be successful in utilizing every photography trend in your photoshoots. Be curious and explore your industry as much as you can.

What to read next: How To Get Professional Realtor Headshots in 2022

Learn more about headshot pricing in Los Angeles.

Click here to book a headshot session in Downtown Los Angeles.

You can view more Professional Headshots | Los Angeles Headshot Photographer on our home page. 

 

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Mirdon
April 9, 2020
How Successful Models Network in Los Angeles

Networking is one of the essential parts of a successful career in any sphere. This skill may help you to open a lot of doors and be one of the most useful tools for you. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles who does many affordable headshots for actors, I have already written an article about actors’ networking events in Los Angeles. This time, I want to talk about how models network in Los Angeles.

Today, the modelling sphere is also very competitive, and besides being beautiful and having the original appearance, you must even know how to network with people from your industry. You should know how to represent yourself in the best way, and get recognized by your communication skills. Of course, at first, this may seem scary because not everyone likes interacting with others, but believe me, if you master that skill, you will notice how it benefits you over time. So read carefully, and you will gain a lot of useful information on how models network in Los Angeles.

What is Networking?

Most of us know the meaning of this word, but it is crucial to make sure to understand the purpose and meaning of it entirely. Networking is communicating and building relationships with influential people from your sphere, which is an essential skill for a successful Los Angeles modeling career. One of the purposes of networking is to have connections with different people, who have passed a hard road in your field. Of course, this will not happen very fast, and you should know that you must put a lot of effort to build connections.

To start networking, you must be courageous to start a conversation with strangers and be confident enough. This may make you get out of your comfort zone. But you should take risks to enjoy the success fully. Try to be natural and create a friendly atmosphere. I am sure people around you will like to talk with you if they feel your positivity.

Where Should you Network?

If you wish to become a part of the Los Angeles modelling career, then you should know that it is a must to be aware of all the opportunities. Remember that even the dullest conversation can transform into something huge. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, who does affordable headshot, I know many cases when an elevator speech helped to make a great impression. The most important thing is to be confident. The best places to interact with other people from your industry are parties, fashion shows, and different events. I highly encourage you to be prepared before going to places like this. Do a little bit of research and get to know the ones who may attend these events.

Use social media, where the organizers of the event will probably post information about the events, and you’ll know the ones who may attend. Such kind of events always has its pages on Instagram or Facebook. Also, join different forums and other useful sites and try to be open and friendly during different jobs that you may do. So make sure to be informed and well prepared. This will help you to make a good impression.

Who Should You Start Networking with?

Models networking in Los Angeles may be hard because the competition is severe. Every model wants to be one step ahead of the others. But in every situation, if you show a friendly attitude to other models, then I am sure people around you will notice it. It would be great if you could have a good relationship with models. That’s because there will be different situations in life that you may need help from them, and also you may help them in response.

As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, who takes affordable headshots for many actors and models, I would highly recommend you to be in a good relationship with photographers as well. If they enjoy working with you, then I am sure they will introduce you to other photographers, designers, and influential people from the industry. You will notice that step-by-step, you get to know different famous people from your industry, with the help of your positive and friendly character. Here is a simple guide on how to behave while networking.

1. Get Acquainted with the Person

In the conversation, it is important to listen to what the other person talks about. Sometimes staying silent and carefully listening is better. Try to ask appropriate questions in order to get to know the other person better. Tell about yourself, also about your achievements and current projects. Always make connections, so that the conversation goes smoothly and in a fun atmosphere. I am sure you will have a lot of common topics with other people who are connected with the Los Angeles modelling career. So even in 5 minutes, you can have interesting and memorable conversations. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I know that in such a big industry, it may be hard to stand out of the crowd. But keep in mind that you are unique in your way, and it will be noticed.

2. Point out Your Uniqueness

As I have already mentioned above, the models’ network in Los Angeles may be quite hard. There are a lot of beautiful girls in the business, and you should bring something unique with you in order to stand out from the crowd. I am sure, right now, there are a lot of modelling agencies, fashion designers, headshot photographers in Los Angeles who are tired of ordinary appearances. They want to find someone who will bring something unique to them.

Today, if you want to be successful in your Los Angeles modelling career, you have to be natural and bring a new wave with you. And also, not only the appearance is important, but also what is inside of the person. Be smart, intelligent, kind, helpful, and you’ll see how the doors are opening for you. Because anything that is cliche is getting out of style. So find your uniqueness and represent it to others.

3. Choose Appropriate Dress 

When you make the first impression, usually, the way you are dressed is critical. Los Angeles modelling career is very much connected with the fashion industry. And many fashion designers will appreciate your sense of style and the way you are dressed. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I pay a lot of attention to how the model is dressed while I am taking affordable headshots. Sometimes many people ask me why Los Angeles headshot rates are high.

The most logical answer to that question is that headshot photographers in Los Angeles pay attention to everything in order to have quality pictures. Another important thing is that you should wear something in which you feel comfortable. During events you will not stay in one place, so choosing the most comfortable dress and shoes is the right thing to do. This will help you to concentrate on what is important during the evening, and not worry about what you are wearing.

4. Leave Alone the Phone

I know that sometimes it is hard not to get distracted by our phones. We are highly connected to our phones. But if you are planning to network during an important event, then a good thing will be not to pay attention to your phone for a couple of hours. Your biggest goal is to have conversations with people and make connections with them. If you sit in the corner and check your Instagram or Facebook profiles all the time, then people may think that you are not interested. If you want to be successful in the models’ network in Los Angeles, then you must fully engage in the process. Of course, it is not simple, but nothing huge happens effortlessly. So you must be very attentive and make your steps. Also, you should know that you are not the only one who is nervous during these events. There will be a lot of beginner models who came there with the same mission as you.

5. Be Confident

Confidence is the key to successful networking. In every situation, people will notice your confidence, and you will make a positive impact. If you want a little help during your first experience, you can ask one of your relatives or friends to join you. They may accompany you so that you know that you are not completely alone. I am sure when other models network in Los Angeles, they also ask their friends to come with them. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you must talk only to your friend for the whole evening. They are coming with you to motivate you and make you more confident, but you must spend your time getting to know other people. After some time, when you become more confident, you can already attend these events alone as you may know many people from the industry. 

6. Listen Carefully

As I have already mentioned above, listening is one of the main skills that you may need while networking. You should listen very carefully. In your industry, there may be a lot of professional and smart people who can give you precious advice. And even in a small amount of time, you can learn a lot from others. If you listen to what the other person says, it will make it easier for you to continue the conversation. And with the help of it, you will be able to keep the conversation smoothly. In addition to that, listening carefully is a sign of being respectful.

As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I always try to listen carefully to my peers, clients, colleagues, and other professionals from my industry. This helps to develop my skills day by day and make not only professional and affordable headshots, but also be aware of my industry. I highly encourage you to watch this informative video about listening. 

Continue Communicating after Events

You will network a lot during these events. And you will get to know a lot of different people. But after the events, it is important to continue keeping in touch with them. Because after some time they will forget about you, and by reaching to them after the events you will make them remember you. I highly recommend you to ask for their emails during your conversation. This channel is one of the most professional ways to get in touch with someone. Of course, there is also social media, but most fashion designers or photographers communicate via emails.

But with your peer models, you can also communicate through Instagram and Facebook. Also, you should always remember that most of the people that you may write to are very busy. It will take a couple of days and even weeks before they write you back. Even if you face a couple of rejections, then it will only make you work even harder and get your goals.

As a Conclusion…

If you are an introverted person, then networking may be scary for you at first. But if you want to reach something significant, then you should fight that fear. And after some time you will notice how you stop being scared. And you will start already feeling very comfortable while networking. The first thing that you must keep in mind is that you have to make a good impression. You will not make a deep connection with anyone during networking events, but because of your positivity, people will remember you. And it will be an excellent base to build up your relationship with them. If you want to have a successful experience while networking, then you should nurture your relationship with them. So don’t be afraid and start networking. Remember that you are not the only one on the journey. There are many models who start networking in Los Angeles.

What to read next: How To Get Professional Realtor Headshots in 2022

Learn more about headshot pricing in Los Angeles.

Click here to book a headshot session in Downtown Los Angeles.

You can view more Professional Headshots | Los Angeles Headshot Photographer on our home page. 

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Seda Stepanyan
January 2, 2020
12 Amazing Locations for Headshots in Los Angeles

Attention all aspiring models and actors! As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I know how hard it is to find the perfect location for headshots. It may look like every corner of Los Angeles is a good location. But, sometimes the slightest thing in the background may distract from your face in your headshots. I have gathered here my favorite list of places to shoot headshots in Los Angeles. This is actually the second part of my list of locations, you can check out more sites here.

1. The Griffith Observatory

Griffith Park Photoshoot

The Griffith Observatory is a facility in Los Angeles that sits on the slope of Mount Hollywood. It overlooks all of Los Angeles, including Downtown Los Angeles, Hollywood, and even the pacific ocean. Weekends are usually crowded, so consider going sometime during the week! This is one of the more trendy and beloved spots for access to pictures with the Hollywood sign! Parking is also a difficulty. So you should either take an UBER up to the top or parking outside the park and hiking up. 

2. The Bradbury Building

Los Angeles Photoshoot

Aside from being a hotspot for cafes and shopping malls, downtown Los Angeles also has many beautiful historic must-sees. The Bradbury Building is the place to go if you are looking for a more vintage style in your photos. The main feature is the elegant elevator shaft and circling stairs. Both the stairs and the elevator catch rays of light that stream down from the skylights. This is a great spot for history and drama! This location may be perfect for some but may cost others their casting. So, make sure to know what you are looking for when choosing a site according to your desired role. 

3. Echo Park

Los Angeles photographer

If you enjoy the outdoors and would like to somehow integrate it into your headshots without it being too much, Echo Park is the place to go for you. Echo Park is a neighborhood with colorful street murals, trendy bars, and food trucks along Sunset Boulevard, along with cute coffee shops and boutiques. This park also has a beautiful skyline, especially during sunrise or sunset. 

4. Union Station

headshot photographer LA

Another one of Los Angeles’ most iconic and historical spots for great headshots. This station has even been dubbed “the last of the greatest railway stations”. Union Station is the heartbeat of the city, combining the hustle and bustle of travelers with luxurious decoration from times long gone. The main area for photography is the lobby with iconic chairs, high ceilings, and intricate finishes. This location gives off a very vintage and rustic vibe. So, before choosing this spot, be sure to evaluate what your brand is.

If you want to be cast in modern movies, this may not be the location for you. Your headshots must always reflect who you are, and what type of roles you are aiming for. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles and have been in the industry for quite some time, so I will help you with this task once you book your session. 

5. The Korean Bell of Friendship 

photoshoot locations in LA

The Korean Bell of Friendship is a massive bronze bell located in a stone pavilion in Angel’s Gate Park. This is in the San Pedro neighborhood of Los Angeles. This is a stunning yet very specific location. Once again, your brand will decide if this place is right for you or not. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I will be able to tell you if we should shoot here or not once you tell me what roles you imagine yourself doing. 

6. Venice Beach

photo session location in Los Angeles

Venice beach is one of my most favorite locations for headshot sessions in Los Angeles because of its variety. It has a bohemian feeling to it and is always buzzing with soul and adventure. Venice beach is a famous beach town with many cafes, restaurants, and food trucks. It is also full of cool shops, street performers, and beautiful murals. There is also a skate park nearby and the beach. A picturesque collection of canals is surrounded by modernist homes, which make for a great background. There is also a skate park nearby full of graffiti, which will portray a mix of natural and urban in your headshots.

The Venice Canals are also at this location, with a beautiful set of small bridges and palm trees for a relaxed and natural background. We can pick our location here together, and find what fits you best. There are many options, and it will take some time to find the perfect spot. This location is also beautiful during sunset. Venice Beach is a very touristy spot, so try to book your session during a weekday so it will be less crowded.

7. Grand Central Market

professional photo session location in LA

The grand central market is basically a huge food court with a somewhat vintage and urban style. It is a very iconic and well-known spot, and many people come here for food, so you must be ready as it will take some time to get the perfect shot. It is full of food vendors and even a neon sign mural, which makes for a great backdrop. As a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I will be able to move around this busy location with ease and find us the perfect background for your headshots. 

8. Downtown Los Angeles Rooftops

professional photo session in Los Angeles

Any local you will talk to will tell you that part of Los Angeles’s life is all about rooftops. Rooftops offer a great view of the city and are beautiful at night with a background full of lights. They are also never crowded, so you will not have to worry about having people walk by in the background. I know some people are shy when it comes to photoshoots, so rooftops offer a mostly private area with excellent backdrops. You can already imagine how great sunsets and sunrises on these rooftops are. Some of these rooftops are open to the public, but some are not.

As a long-time headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I know a few locals who will happily give us access to their rooftops for your headshot session. There are also no worries about permits, parking, and closing hours when you are shooting on a private rooftop. The only concern is the weather, so check before you book and pick the day and your outfit accordingly. 

9. “Urban Lights” at LACMA

LACMA photoshoot location

Urban Light is a large-scale art piece/sculpture on the Wilshire Boulevard entrance to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. This installation consists of restored street lamps from the 1900s. This is a spot you’re sure to have seen all over Instagram. Even though it might seem obvious or overused to you, it is still a great location if you know how to use it. It is essential that your headshot photographer knows how to get the most out of a location and not make it cliche.

Being a headshot photographer in Los Angeles for quite some time now, I have seen how people waste a perfect background with a wrong angle or lighting setup. Depending on the type of photo you would like to get, we can choose whether we want to try shooting at this location during the daytime or nighttime. Shooting at different times of the days will give your headshots totally different moods. During the night, these lights are turned on, and during the day, they provide a great architectural background. 

10. Santee Alley

professional headshot location in Los Angeles

Santee Alley is located in the Los Angeles Fashion district and is not for those who get tired quickly. This is a location that offers many unique photo opportunities if you are willing to test your creativity. Santee Alley is a narrow street for pedestrians filled with shops on both sides. It is usually full of people, which adds to the atmosphere but can also make your photo background distracting. Since there is no one iconic spot for photos, we must look around before we choose someplace for your headshots.

Being a headshot photographer in Los Angeles, I have been to Santee Alley many times for professional and personal reasons, so I know just how to make this location work for you. I will recommend the perfect time to go, so it is full of life yet not too crowded with people. Then, after discovering photo ops in Santee Alley, we can explore the rest of the District of Fashion that is full of colorful stores, food trucks, and street art. You must keep in mind that with popular local locations such as this one, finding the perfect non-distracting background and lighting might take some extra time, so clear your day before booking!

11. Micheltorena Stairs

locations for instagram shoots in LA

The Micheltorena stairs are the most Instagrammed stairs in the world and are a must-see for all those looking for cute pictures. The colorful stairs and big heart offer a very vibrant and full-of-life backdrop for headshots. If you’re looking for a sweet girl-next-door role or if you are looking for a good location for kids’ headshots, then this is the spot for you. Once you book a headshot session with me, we will take the time to talk over what role you’re looking for and choose if the spot you selected is right for you or not.

Since this is a very colorful and bright background, you must be portrayed so that you stand out but do not clash with the colors. Both of my headshot session packages include wardrobe consultation, so a professional will tell you what to wear according to your brand and chosen background. These packages also include unlimited looks, so if you cannot decide what to wear, just bring all the options with you, and we will try them out to see which goes best with the background. 

12. The Huntington Library Botanical Gardens

professional photoshoot in Los Angeles

The Huntington is mainly known for the Library and Art Museum. But, what most people do not know is that it houses a vast botanical garden full of very well-cared-for plants and natural photo backgrounds. The space is very large, so you are sure to find precisely the background you are looking for. There are green spaces and spaces full of all types of flowers if that is what you are searching for as a backdrop for your headshots. A natural and flowery background isn’t the ideal choice for everyone, so evaluate your brand carefully before you select this option. Parking is also free at this location, so that’s one less thing to worry about. The ground space here is very large, so there will be no crowds of people in the background of your photos. 

As a Conclusion…

Before choosing a headshot location in Los Angeles, always remember to keep your brand in mind. Your brand is what should get across to the casting directors when they look at your headshots. It should include parts of your personality and what roles you’re searching for. If you’re looking to be cast in a cowboy western-style movie, then headshots from Echo Park or rooftops locations are surely not going to get you that role. I am a headshot photographer in Los Angeles and have been in this industry for some time, know what details in headshots get the attention of casting directors and what loses them.

Once you select the type of roles you are looking to get cast for, we will go through a few location options together and select the ones most suited to you. Both headshot session packages I offer also include free wardrobe consultation, to help you match well with the background we choose and the type of energy you’re looking for in a headshot. I know it’s hard to choose an outfit for a shoot, especially when you don’t know how it will go with the background. I suggest you bring them all with you to the shoot! Both packages include unlimited looks, so you can try all types of outfits to find the one you love. With all these perks and this list of locations, you are sure to get the headshots of your dreams!

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Seda Stepanyan
July 14, 2019
How to Get Ready for the Photoshoot - Common Mistakes.

As a headshot photographer, I can work any magic on your skin with photoshop, however, I always recommend my clients to get their skin ready for the photoshoot; it concerns both male and female clients. Most men think there’s nothing they need to do with their skin. However, it is a wrong approach. Most of my clients reside in the Los Angeles Area and the climate here is quite “skin-friendly”. Regardless, you need to start getting ready for the photoshoot a week beforehand. 

What to Do a Week Before. 

Drink plenty of water. This advice is one of the most common ones, however, not everyone follows it. Water helps to hydrate your skin, get rid of dryness, as well as help fine lines appear more plumped and smooth.

Skip Alcohol! 

It is not a secret how badly alcohol impacts your body. Everything you eat and drink is visible on your skin and the camera sees and records everything in detail – especially if you are looking to do a professional headshot session in a studio and in daylight. Alcohol dehydrates your skin. If it is a special occasion or an event and you cannot avoid alcohol, you need to compensate it with an excessive amount of water. Too much alcohol deprives the skin of vital vitamins and nutrients. Moreover, the regular use of alcohol can cause aging and wrinkles. Alcohol dilates the pores of the skin which leads to blackheads and whiteheads. If it is not properly treated, it can cause inflamed skin papules and cystic acne.

Get a Facial!

Irrespective of your gender, age, financial situation, religion, and anything else, please, please, please, get a facial! I’m saying this to everyone. Do it 5-7 days before the shoot. Your face needs to be prepared for the photoshoot by a trained professional, even if you do not have blemishes, hyperpigmentation, severe acne, or any other problems. Don’t forget to let your esthetician know that you are getting ready for a headshot session. Knowing this, they will choose the right way to treat your skin without leaving redness.  Ask them to focus on hydrating your skin. 

If it is not included in the facial, make sure to pay extra for a facial massage. It’s really worth it as it improves blood circulation in your face. It means that your cells get lots of nutrients, as well as oxygen, that is carried along with the blood. This makes the cells healthier and leads to a glowing face. Photographers love it.

Anyways, if you think you cannot afford to get a facial by a professional, you can! Just save on a couple of lattes and cappuccinos and find a beauty salon on Groupon! It’s totally doable!  

If you are not a beauty salon goer, in my next blog I will write about how to take care of your skin yourself before the photo session. 

Girls, NO Facial Hair! Please!

Nowadays, some people are saying that facial hair is trendy. However, it is rare to see movies or magazines with female actors who have facial hair; if it is not part of their character, of course. If you “love” your photographer save their post-production time and get rid of facial hair. Remember: it should be done at least 2 days beforehand.

Eyebrows should also be waxed or reshaped 1-2 days before the shoot. Let your photographer save the time they will spend doing that in Photoshop and enjoy the Los Angeles sun instead! 

Take Care of your Hair!

The first important requirement for your hair is that it must be healthy. If the headshot session is outdoors, under natural light, dull strands and split ends will accentuate the unhealthiness of your hair. That’s why, a day before the photo shoot, you should use a nourishing, deep conditioning treatment on your hair and get rid of the damaged ends. 

Obviously, your photographer can give you professional advice on how to do your hair for a photoshoot better. In any case, the choice is yours. But keep in mind that your hairstyle should not look too carefully done. Natural looking hairstyles for photoshoots are the best. Check out these romantic spots for photoshoot in Los Angeles. 

Read more: “How Photos Make your Business Fail“.

 

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