How Long Does a Professional Headshot Session Take?
What to Expect Step-by-Step
If you're thinking about booking a professional headshot but aren’t sure how much time to set aside—or what actually happens during the session—you’re not alone.
Whether it's for LinkedIn, a company website, or personal branding, knowing what to expect can help you feel more confident and prepared. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you understand how long a headshot session typically takes, and what happens at each stage.
⏳ Average Session Length
A standard professional headshot session usually depends on:
The number of looks or outfit changes
Whether it’s an individual or group session
How much posing direction is needed
On-location vs. in-studio setup
At Rojas Photography, we offer both quick sessions for those who need efficiency, and more extended sessions for individuals who want more variety and coaching.
📋 Step-by-Step: What to Expect
Pre-Session Communication
You’ll receive details on what to wear, how to prep, and what to bring.
We offer a consultation call or questionnaire to understand your goals and where the headshot will be used (LinkedIn, speaking events, business cards, etc.).
📝 Tip: Take this time seriously—your preparation affects how confident you’ll feel in front of the camera.
Arrival & Warm-Up
You'll be welcomed and walked through the process.
Time is taken to adjust lighting, backgrounds, and review any specific needs you have.
This is where nerves settle and you get comfortable in the space.
🎶 Rojas Photography offers a comfortable safe setting that allows you get the nerves out.
The Photo Session
We will guide you through poses, teach you techniques and provide facial expression coaching to achieve that confident and approachable look.
You'll take breaks between shots for image review and selection. This is where you tell me what you like and what you don’t like.
If desired, our sessions include multiple outfit changes or background swaps for variety.
💡 Remember: It’s not about rushing—it’s about finding the images where you look and feel like your best self.
Image Review & Selection
At Rojas Photography, we coach and walks through the image selection process with you; ensuring your images have the characteristics that make strong first impressions.
Editing & Delivery
Your selected images are professionally retouched to enhance (not change) your natural features—removing distractions like flyaways, blemishes, and adjusting lighting.
⏰ Ask your photographer about turnaround time before booking if you have a deadline coming up.
✅ Total Time: What You Should Plan For
While no two sessions are exactly alike—and we don’t place a strict time limit—we’ve found that most headshot sessions naturally wrap up within 90 minutes or less. Our approach is to give each client the time they need to feel confident and get the right shot, without rushing or watching the clock.
That said, it’s helpful to consider more than just the time spent in front of the camera. Choosing your outfit, prepping your hair or makeup, and getting into the right mindset are all part of the process and deserve thoughtful attention too.
The goal is never to rush you—but to create space for you to feel relaxed, authentic, and at your best.
✨ Final Takeways
Getting professional headshots doesn’t need to be stressful or time-consuming—but it is worth doing right. By knowing what to expect and allowing yourself time to settle in, you’ll walk away with images that truly represent your professionalism and confidence.
Whether you’re updating LinkedIn, preparing for a speaking engagement, or just want to elevate your online presence, investing a bit of time in your headshots can open the door to new opportunities.