High Volume Headshots - School Portraits, Corporate, Performing Artists

[@ArsenijeRadenovic]

What the heck? You just did a masterclass in 13minutes? For free. On youtube. Hats off mister Matt. Thanks for sharing your knowledge! This was incredibly helpful!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Arsenije! Glad you found it helpful. Part 2 has more information if you want to check that one out. Thanks for watching!

[@janiscollette1737]

Just watched part two with you gear etc. I have the same exact equipment and realize that in all my splurge spending I actually had good instincts! Now now I just have to get that Slinger Rolling Case and I’m set! Well at least for this week! Lol

[@garrettwalker3285]

i found myself in the position of having to do headshots for 80 8th graders on short notice, having never really taken a headshot before. this video saved me a ton of time and helped me produce professional results for the kids' yearbook. thank you so much!

[@MattSpaugh]

Garrett, you made my day! It make me so happy to know that this slice of information is helping people get the job done! Thanks for watching and for sharing your experience. Rave on!

[@ILLAILLS]

I’m about to be in this boat for Grad students

[@pittmanvisuals296]

this quite honestly could be the best photography video I've seen. Just chatting it up as if we're having a conversation, but so informative that I know I became a better photographer after watching this wonderful video.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for the kind words. This has definitely been one of my most watched videos and the positive comments have been a real encouragement to me. Check out Part 2 if you haven't already, there's a bit more in the way of specifics and logistics in that one - and the audio is WAY better - ha. Thanks again, have a great day!

[@MRJAY-xl7ce]

Bro not gate keeping anything from us! Thank you bro

[@MattSpaugh]

I've been fortunate to have worked with a lot of people who were happy to share what they knew. I can't imagine having the ability to help out others and not taking advantage of it. Thanks again for watching!

[@kennethwilliamsinc]

Man, what a small world. My daughter went to that school 5 years ago. They have some great people working there.

[@MattSpaugh]

That it is! Thanks for watching.

[@JBanksPhotography]

This video should be the gold standard for instruction related content. Awesome job. Thank you.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks John! I've had a lot of people encourage me to make a proper course that goes more in-depth. I'd love to cover my post processing and gallery submission workflow but there are only so many hours in the day. Thanks again for the encouragement - and for watching!

[@odarrien]

Very comprehensive. I’ll be coming back to this video again!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found something helpful. Check out Part 2 for more info. Thanks for watching!

[@leskrone5143]

Wonderful video, thanks for dropping all of this knowledge. This is what it means to empower your peers instead of gatekeep.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for the kind comment. Every day I learn something new, no point in keeping it all to myself, right? Thanks for watching!

[@casacappsphotography]

Hey Matt - Stumbled onto your channel and this video and perfect timing... I've watched at least 50 high volume videos over the last week as I'm about to do my first gig with a MS band. This is by far the best video I've watched. I had most of the pieces, but just didn't quite know how to fit them together into a process, and this video provided much clarity. Congrats! You are as good of an educator as you are a photographer! Can't wait for the 3 year follow-up!

[@MattSpaugh]

It makes me so happy to hear that this video is helping people. Thanks for your kind words and thanks for watching. Good luck with your session.

[@DJYoshiVideos]

I still refer back to this video whenever I need inspiration

[@MattSpaugh]

That means a lot to me. It really makes me happy to know that the content I've put out there is of benefit to other folks. Thanks for sharing - and watching!

[@lighthousephoto7143]

Superb video. I’m curious though as to why you prefer broad rather than short lighting. I usually see the latter recommended, though I find them both equally appealing.

[@MattSpaugh]

I short light adults, broad light kids. In my experience, many younger subjects, have a tendency to turn their faces away from the light. Broad lighting them help reduce that tendency. Great question - thanks for watching!

[@lighthousephoto7143]

@@MattSpaugh And a great reply! Cheers!

[@bn-eugenepwa]

Thank you so much for this. Just completed part one of three company headshot sessions. I'm a videographer, not a photographer, and had never done this before. Your guides gave me all the info and confidence I needed to make it happen. I can't thank you enough!

[@MattSpaugh]

Kinda nice to be able to adjust shutter speed isn't it? Seriously, I'm glad you found the content helpful. I remember feeling VERY overwhelmed on my first few high-volume sessions. Good luck on the next two sessions!

[@orlandojonesphotography]

Amazing video and great content. Thank you for sharing 👍🏾

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Orlando! Glad you found my stuff worth watching! I'm working on some new stuff: lighting overviews and a lens review - stay tuned!

[@orlandojonesphotography]

@@MattSpaugh I will be on the lookout. Gained a subscriber.

[@MattSpaugh]

@@orlandojonesphotography Thx!

[@jeffreymodesto168]

very very good indeed and helpful ..... thank you for the video

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. YOu might want to check out part 2 if you haven't already. It goes a little deeper into some specifics. Thanks for watchiing!

[@Disneyphotog]

This is such a perfect video for me! Doing my first school portrait session in a few weeks. Thanks for putting me in the right direction.

[@MattSpaugh]

That makes my day! I'm so glad when my content can be of real-world help to someone. My best advice (besides what's in the video) is to keep calm when things don't go to plan - and always try to keep things as simple as possible. Good luck with your shoot!

[@gabrielesagone]

How did it went? All this tips were useful while working?

[@mjphotos]

@@MattSpaugh i have mine also coming up and your tutorial was very clear.. thanks Matt :)

[@MattSpaugh]

@@mjphotos Glad to hear it!

[@SK123456789100]

Outstanding instruction Thank you for giving such a clear explanation of your approach You have included working with the institution, client flow, setup and settings Great! Subscribed!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching! There's a part 2 to this that covers a bit more about the practical aspects of this type of work. You might want to check it out as well.

[@abrahamcurland9679]

Thank you. One of the best step by step tutorials I have seen. Very helpful.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful - check out Part II if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@janiscollette1737]

This was the best laid out, well explained & fully detailed source of information to set someone up for this form of photography. Maybe my brain thinks like you, but you answered every question or detail I would have been scrambling to find out as I prepared for a session. Thank you for keeping it so condensed as well.

[@MattSpaugh]

Ha - you made my day! I love the challenge of breaking things down and trying to make them simple - without getting off target (a HUGE challenge for me). It's nice to hear that I hit that mark for you. Thanks for watching!

[@dominicwroblewski5832]

My hat is off to you on how you keep organized. I am getting a panic attack just thinking about how to match the names to the photos let alone thinking about the volume of print orders and keeping that straight. Giving the kids lots of room is the best idea I ever heard of.

[@MattSpaugh]

Tracking is far the most stressful part of the job. If you have a spreadsheet with the names (and number for each name) and you name your files while you shoot you'll be fine. I use Capture One and it's a very simple process: Shoot 4-5 photos, pick the best one, double click the default name, type in the number, discard the other photos. It becomes pretty second nature after a while. I've botched a few here and there but only maybe 10 or so out of more than 2,000 images shot in the past few years. Get help if you can to feed you the numbers and repeat them out loud as you type them in. Hope that helps ease your mind - thanks for watching!

[@LMActionsports]

I wish they would give me a spreadsheet with all the names. I been doing the preschool kids in the 3 neighboring towns for the past 3 years. And since its just me and a teacher’s assistant bringing in each kid. I receive the order form, keep them in the order they come in. Plus i send a collage of all the kids and I have a number on each one of the kids. I send that collage to the school and ask them to match up the names to each of the numbers per student and I double check with the order forms and make sure everything is correct. the one time I went into the classroom and did a quick video while the teacher went around and told me the names of each student so I knew who was who. But some schools have 3 to 4 classrooms of preschool kids. So I could have up to 70 kids I have to make sure the names are correct to each student. That’s how I do it. But yes, I wish they would give me a spreadsheet.

[@MattSpaugh]

@@LMActionsports good grief, that sounds like a nightmare. I could make that work with maybe 20-30 kids, any more than that and I'd be lost. It seems like if they put the order form online, you could port that information to a spread-sheet. Who knows. My hat's off to you! Thanks for watching.

[@cameronjones1510]

This is incredibly helpful! Thank you. Do you mind sharing where you got your backdrop? So pretty and not the typical harsh school portrait backdrop!

[@MattSpaugh]

Funny you should ask! I paint my own backdrops. My very first two videos on the channel are how-to videos on painting your own backdrops. Check 'em out! Thanks for watching.

[@MarkAKathurima]

Fantastic tutorial! No fluff. I love the setup tips both for Capture One and for the physical lighting setup

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. You might want to check out part II if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@andrefelixstudio2833]

Great video nicely explained but you’re giving all your secrets away, good job nobody can be you and it’s your expertise and talent for shooting people, that others will not be able to reproduce! A true professional on KZbin!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Andre! I have no problem whatsoever giving away all my secrets - I don't really have that many, and there's plenty of work to go around, especially this type of work. Personality and positivity are probably the key elements though. You have to be able to interact with kids and people for pretty long periods of time and that can be taxing. I always try to make sure I get at least an hour lunch, and I make a point of leaving the facility if at all possible. Getting some downtime is key for me. Thanks again for kind words and for watching!

[@darronamann5560]

Gotta love that kid creeping in the background of every shot.

[@rondub]

I know you did this several years ago but I had to let you know this was extremely helpful !!!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad to hear it! All the information is the same, distances, focal lengths, etc. I still use the same set up and it works great. Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. It has some more specific info in it. Thanks for watching!

[@tonyfphotography]

An absolutely masterclass of information here, and clear and concise information! Thank you!

[@MattSpaugh]

Much obliged Tony! I'm glad you found it helpful. Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. The information is just barely decent but the production value is OUTSTANDING. 🤣

[@foosking]

Fantastic! That was the most well thought out, efficient workflow I've seen. Great presentation. Thank you.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for the kind words. It's not especially hard work but there is a LOT to keep track of so it can be a daunting process. Thanks for watching!

[@RafaelUnplugged]

I think added the clamshell reflector under the subject will push this to power level 9000. Great stuff. I love using the 70-200 collar for 90* rotation on tripod but using third line on eyes is genius.

[@MattSpaugh]

I love clamshell reflectors for studio work but for high volume, moving it in and out just takes too much time/effort. Glad you like the video, thanks for watching!

[@RafaelUnplugged]

@@MattSpaugh what do you think of a fill light from the bottom that you can adjust power of too? As is though it’s definitely more than enough. I did senior portraits for a year and had similar setups. I suppose super high quality higher paying gigs would warrant that holy trinity of light setup haha.

[@MattSpaugh]

@@RafaelUnplugged it's nice to have that level of control and depending on the client, I will sometimes use more lights. For high-volume though, were time is tight, two lights and the reflector work well for me. Thx.

[@djtoman6875]

Fantastic video, and so well thought out in every detail. Now that Headshot Tools is available the process is so much smoother and easier.

[@BrogenDavis33]

Thanks Matt! ❤❤❤ We all owe you one.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for watching!

[@thomasgrahamdavies1962]

Pretty much starting off in this area of photography. I just want to say thank you. That was really helpful.

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm glad you found it helpful. It's fun work and can be very rewarding. Thanks for watching.

[@Captainmattwebb]

I’ve done shoots like this before and they’ve been excellent. Spent lots of time setting up and shooting tests. Got very good, consistent shots. I’ve recently done a quick 2 light, handheld shoot for 5 people on my team at work and I’m realising that you really can’t cut some corners. I need to do another 10 people in a few weeks and I will not be scrimping on the equipment I take or the time I spend shooting. Quality is never an accident. It’s always the result of intelligent effort!

[@MattSpaugh]

Can't argue with that! I feel like I've done everything I can to get this down to the simplest set up. The only thing I sometimes don't bring is the backdrop. It's heavy and the stands are a lot to deal with. But, when I do use it, I'm always so pleased with the results. If I'm photographing more than 10 people I usually bring it. If it's less than that I have a white pop-up that I use. I like the pop up because I can angle it and get falloff behind the subject. Thanks for watching, good luck with your upcoming shoot!

[@remembershooting2064]

Instant sub, very informative, friendly and engaging but not a wasted moment. Much needed and appreciated ahead of my first corporate headshot gig next week. Thank you!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful - good luck on your session. You might want to check out part 2 if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@mlsphotobybrentwoodgraphic3124]

That's an awesome video, thanks for sharing everything 🤗

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. Check out part 2 if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@TheRealMikeEdwards]

This was wonderfully presented. Thank you.

[@nogemma]

WOW !!! Thank you very much for this wonderful video!! So helpful!!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@nikkaragianis3377]

Thank you for posting this video - this will help me quiet a bit !!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad to hear it - thanks for watching!

[@janlasalle8845]

Excellent! I mostly shoot dance but need to do staff headshots in a small area. This was very generous and helpful information.

[@MattSpaugh]

My wife was a professional ballet dancer. Huge respect for dance photographers. I've shot some modern stuff for Emory University. All I could hear in my head was "don't cut off the FEET"! Good luck with your shoot. You might want to watch Part 2 if you haven't already. It's a bit more in-depth. Thanks for watching.

[@thcwub3387]

This is possibly the most constructive and informative video I've seen on this topic. Most everything you explained is unique and extremely useful. You had my attention as soon as you mentioned the contract clause about not being left alone, and everything from there was just gold. Looking forward to enjoying more of your videos, and from one eductor to another: Nicely done!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for the kind words - it's a huge encouragement to me. I try hard to organize my information and stay on topic. But, it's hard for me sometimes because I don't want to share too much and make the videos absurdly long and/or boring. It's nice to hear that I've struck a balance. Check out part II if you haven;t already. There's more information about the contract/proposal - and downloadable text file you can base your own on. Thanks for watching!

[@moodymediafl]

Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@_trismegistus]

Thanks, man! Nice to learn from a local pro.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found something helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@karelkuruc]

This video is loaded with useful informations! Thanks for that!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful! There is a Part 2 on my channel as well that might be helpful. It's more granular about set up, transport, etc. Thanks for watching!

[@jacquelinejackson5191]

Thank you for this video. Normally, I use a one setup scenario for the images however, your knowledge of high volume head-shots and the key points of using the child's school ID was magnificent I actually forgot about that valuable piece of information

[@MattSpaugh]

That is the key to all of this for me - and the thing I freak out about the most. If those numbers are not right, it's very difficult to get the job back on track. I'm glad you found the video helpful - thanks for watching!

[@dez966]

Thank you for this video. Researching how to take better headshots for clients, and I’m glad your video was on my feed.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. I'd been meaning to do a more in-depth video on my lighting setup - the two lights plus reflector - but this one covers it fairly well. Let me know if there's something in particular that you have questions on, I'm putting together a list of video ideas for Q3! Have a good one, and thanks for watching.

[@frankwoodbery2473]

Great video! Wondering if you've ever considered using a pop-up collapsible backdrop. They are so convenient to transport and fast to setup/take down, and 6'x7' is plenty of size for this work.

[@MattSpaugh]

I use those for smaller jobs or single on-site headshots but I much prefer my hand-painted backdrops. They add more depth, and create unique images that I feel set my work apart. Thanks for watching.

[@molportraits]

THIS DUDE WAS AMAZING... LOVE IT.... THX A MIL SIR

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. There's a Part 2 as well that offers some more specifics - and has WAY better audio quality! 🤣 Thanks for the encouraging comment and for watching!

[@erictaylor1804]

Thank you for sharing your knowledge. I'm getting into doing many more headshot sessions. You provided some really great ideas for me. Thanks.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@verzomusic]

Very helpful video!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. Check out part 2 if you want a bit more in-depth look at the process.

[@perrymacimages]

Awesome video! Thanks for all of that information in such a short video. Your work flow is great.

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Sam! I try to keep my videos as efficient as possible. Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@MattSpaugh]

Make sure to check out Part II for some more practical tips on packing, setup, etc.

[@robertjburns9206]

Just found your channel and I'm really enjoying the clear and simple advice. You probably know this already, but I'll mention it anyway, the godox triggers aren't big fans of rechargeable batteries and is usually the reason why they occasionally misfire.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you're liking what I've posted. Great tip on the batteries. I'm doing a follow up video to this one and I'll make sure to add that to my comments. I always use alkaline batteries in my gear. A holdover from my guitar effects pedal days. I did a school this week: over 500 headshots in 4 days. When I went to set up, my transmitter would not power on. I'd left the batteries in last time I used it and some corrosion had formed on one of the contacts. Talk about freaking out - I called Adorama and ordered a backup to be sent overnight. I cleaned the contact and put some dielectric grease on it and it worked perfectly. Thanks for watching, have a good one!

[@badboydrd]

That explains all the misfires I've been having!

[@manuelfigueroa894]

Thank you for the information. I have a corp session coming up and this helped a lot. The only thing I don’t have is the tripod.

[@MattSpaugh]

For a corporate job, you may not need it. I use that system for really high volume sessions (over 50) to keep everything really consistent. For corporate gigs, let the subject stand up and just keep a sense of where you are and how high you're holding the camera. Try to keep the lens at their eye height. Hope that helps, good luck with your shoot and thanks for watching!

[@pdoggo64]

Excellent! Thanks

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. Check out part 2 for more in-depth info and WAY better audio... lol.

[@DaveSincere]

This is a PHENOMENAL video.. I love how you're precise, straight to the point and easy to understand. I wish I had saw this video when I shot a Debutante Ball back in 2019. It would have helped me greatly. By the way, you have a small dust spot on your sensor or lens. You can see it at the 3:29 mark left of the children. It kills me because I have a dust particle inside my 24-70 Sony lens that I always have to edit.

[@MattSpaugh]

Wow, thanks so much. I'm glad you found the content helpful. Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. It goes a little deeper into some specifics. Always a struggle keeping the lenses clean - thanks for spotting it.

[@christopherlemmer6178]

Really, really helpful video. Thanks so much for the detailed review of your process!

[@MattSpaugh]

Check out part II if you haven't already, it goes into detail on some specifics and has much better audio! 🤣

[@universalroads8176]

This video is extremely elaborate thank you! I’ve done preschool pictures once but haven’t since then. It was difficult bc the kids were so young they didn’t really know how to take a picture and smile. I wasn’t using flash I used a constant light. The pictures came out great and it was only about 10 kids. I was thinking how I could get more jobs like this. Telling about your gear also is helpful too! Thank you for making this video.

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm glad you found it helpful. I really enjoy photographing the younger kids. I've done as young as K4 and most of them are so easy to photograph. You definitely have to 'sneak up' on getting a good shot though. Keeping them relaxed is the key - of course, that's the key for all of them really. Thanks for watching!

[@hillzdoe]

Hey thank you so much! I would for you to do a video on how you retouch the headshots please would really help out a lot. Thanks!

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm torn right now between doing a part three or creating a full blown course. I've been trying to outline and write some scripts, but it's a huge undertaking. I'm glad you found the video helpful, check out part 2 if you haven't already. It has more specifics on gear, transporting, etc. Thanks for watching!

[@hillzdoe]

@@MattSpaugh Yes I did! But more geared to wanting to see a professional do basic retouching and even advance where necessary. Nevertheless thank you!

[@GirishJoshi]

Great video! Indepth information really. Extremely helpful

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad there was something here for you- thanks for watching! If you want more specifics on transporting gear, etc, check out Part 2.

[@artandadventurerv]

An amazingly detailed explanation, super helpful. Thank you so much!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Paige, I'm glad you found it helpful. I always struggle with including enough information but not getting too mired in the details. It's a tough balance sometimes. Thanks for watching!

[@toddbutcher7568]

This is great! Lots of useful information in just the right amount of time!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Todd! If you haven't checked out part 2, you might want to. It goes into more depth on some specifics. I really hope to do a part 3 at some point that covers post-processing and setting up galleries but there's only so many hours in the day. Thanks for watching!

[@AndreiRestrepo]

Incredible breakdown! I typically do headshots and portrait work for realtors but I have a gig coming up photographing about 25 students for a music school so this was immensely helpful. Thanks man!

[@MattSpaugh]

So glad you found it helpful. You might want to check out the Part 2 of this. It's a little bit more in-depth. Thanks for watching and good luck with your shoot!

[@k4m1]

Great vid, noticed a spec on your sensor when you were going through the images in capture one

[@werito82]

Excellent video, very helpful information!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks!

[@IamPaulTaylor]

You were spot on! I shot a school once and everything you mentioned I did, aside from the tethering! Great job, great info!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Paul! Tethering is the only way I can make sure I'm getting good images - and gives me the ability to quickly edit out the bad shots and rename the files. It saves me so much time on the back end. Thanks for watching!

[@samueltrujillophotography]

Actually, very helpfu, and just in time for my portrait session, thank you!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Cool! Check out part II if you want more details on gear, my proposal/contract and WAY better production value...🤣🤣🤣

[@samueltrujillophotography]

@@MattSpaugh I just did, thanks again 👍

[@andrepowell7639]

Excellent video with great information. Thank you!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. Check out part II if you want more information about gear, packing, transporting, and working with the customer. Thanks for watching!

[@andrepowell7639]

@@MattSpaugh Great, great nuggets of info. Definitely will Matt. Thank you!

[@tokhenz]

Very informative Matt. Thank you very much!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for watching!

[@saika216]

Great breakdown and display of how to get it done. Do you also have a video or your acquisition process? Getting into spaces like school photography seems complicated.

[@MattSpaugh]

There is a part 2 on this topic that talks a bit more about the client process but sadly no. Every situation is so different it's almost impossible to devise a single approach that works for everything. Competition is stiff from mega-photo companies, so anything you can do to stand out as genuine, willing to accommodate their needs, and above all RELIABLE will definitely help. Hope that helps - good luck with it and thanks for watching.

[@thcrtn]

Great breakdown have to watch again to see what program is used for your spreadsheet

[@MattSpaugh]

They supply me with Excel spreadsheets but I work with them in Apple Numbers. Thanks for watching!

[@omacprincipio]

After hundreds of photography videos I watched, I wonder why YT didn't recommend this channel. Very informative, straight to the point and better than 80% of what I've watched! I would love to see how pricing works with this kind of project (graduation pic).

[@MattSpaugh]

I think my channel content is too wide ranging for KZbin to show me serious love. From what understand, the more focused you are on a specific topic, the more push you get. Thankfully I'm not really in it for the fame (HA). KZbin for me is a platform to share what I've learned in hopes that it'll make someone else's journey a little easier, and to challenge myself to try new things - always trying to push my production value higher. Thanks so much for your kind words, I'm glad what I have to share is helpful. In terms of pricing - it's all over the place. Some schools pay you nothing, expecting you to make your money on print sales (which basically don't exist anymore) and some will pay you per photo. Some pay a straight 1/2 or full day rate. If you do retouching, that's an expense over and above your time. If you're scoping out a school, I'd ask them what they're paying currently and try to work with that as a starting point. Good luck in your endeavors and thanks for watching!

[@garyadams5201]

Really excellent video Mr. Spaugh!!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks Gary - check out Part 2! i just posted it last week.

[@nikedadoug]

A ton of information that serves as a good enough refresher for someone who has a yearbook shoot in a few days. Except I don't have that amount of room for it. Hehe

[@MattSpaugh]

Space is certainly a commodity that can be in short supply. We make do with what we have thought, right? Thanks for watching. I hope there was something here that saves you some hassle on your shoot.

[@steve7015]

Really helpful Clear and direct delivery

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. If you want more specifics on prep, gear, packing, etc, check out Part 2 if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@steve7015]

@@MattSpaugh will do, Thanks!

[@MattSpaugh]

@@steve7015 the audio is way better too... ha.

[@ringeradi]

This was very helpful, thank you! I'm just getting started in portrait photography and you addressed the details I needed to know.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad to hear it - thanks for watching!

[@jaym5938]

I found this helpful. Appreciated. Thank you. White Balance? Focal Length?

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. White balance is set for my strobes, 6500K. Focal length is usually around 100mm. Hope that helps, thanks for watching!

[@allthings_araba23]

Thank you so much for this video. Found it very helpful.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad to hear it. Thanks for watching!

[@AllSortsOfScripts]

Wow! I’m impressed. I’m so used to being around selfish people that I could not believe you were sharing all that knowledge!! Somehow your video was recommended now I’m am subscribed. Thank you!!! I’m starting my little own headshot business and I have found this extremely valuable and useful. Thanks again.

[@MattSpaugh]

I'll never understand the point of being selfish with information. Everyone has their own voice and everyone is at a different place in their work. Headshots are fun - high-volume headshots are a unique challenge for sure. Stay focused on the the people (literally and figuratively) and you'll likely do well. I learn something new on every session - stay flexible and listen to your clients. Good luck in your venture! You might want to check out part 2, the follow up to this video. It has more specific information on certain things.

[@AllSortsOfScripts]

@@MattSpaugh awesome thanks!

[@bncprado]

Thanks for such rich information Matt. All the best

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. If you want some even more detailed information, check out part 2! kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJS3qIt7oaynoqc Thanks for watching!

[@cutoutphotography]

Thank you very much for the information very interesting. I got the necessary information in this video. ❤

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm glad you found it helpful. You might want to check out Part 2 if you haven't already. It has a bit more practical information. Thanks for watching and for the kind comment!

[@mezatron]

Such an informative video. Thank you sooo much.

[@MattSpaugh]

I'm glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching!

[@xtremeheights]

Great video and very inspiring. Thank you for sharing your technique.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. Check out Part II if you haven't already, it gives more detail (and the audio is WAY better - ha). Thanks for watching.

[@LongTimeTTFan]

Great tips. Very clear. Straightforward. Very practical. Really like the idea of using a tripod and keep the eye level at 2/3 line. Very useful. Thanks a lot. A new subscriber.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful! One of the hardest things (for me, anyway) about making these videos is staying on-topic and keeping them information focused. It's so easy to start rambling on and on. It's nice when someone notices! Thanks for watching.

[@LongTimeTTFan]

@@MattSpaugh Your presentation was well organized. The information was presented progressively step by step. All the steps I expected / hoped the video would cover, you did in a logical sequence. Once the video started, the viewer would not wander away from it. Thank you again.

[@MattSpaugh]

@@LongTimeTTFan Thanks. It's always a struggle to know how much is too much. I want to be thorough, but not overwhelm. Sounds like for you at least, I managed to pull it off. Check out part two if you haven't already. I feel like it fleshes out some of the specifics better for someone who actually intends to do this type of work. Have a good one! With any luck I'll do a part three that shows my post-processing more in-depth and gets into gallery posting.

[@Mikey_Perth]

Cheers for this video you legend! 🍻

[@MattSpaugh]

Ha... I'll take it! Thanks for watching!

[@Yizzlesquasm]

Fantastic video, great way of explaining it all. Much of what I have been struggling to understand was explained very clearly. Great job, thank you very much.

[@MattSpaugh]

You made my day! My biggest struggle in creating content is constantly second-guessing myself because I want things to be as clear and as simple as possible. I'm glad my content was able to help you out. Have a good one, thanks for watching - and for the encouragement.

[@RadianFilms64]

Good video! Thanks mate! I really like that you have the camera on the tripod. Like you said, a lot of photographers like to hold the camera, but than you really have a lot of work in post to make all the photos look the same. If it is a different kind of shoot, than yes, I like to move around with the camera, but for this, your setup is awesome!

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks, glad you liked the video. For me, everything is about getting the best shots possible and keeping the post processing to a minimum. My post literally takes less than 40 seconds per image - unless they need major retouching, which I bill separately.

[@RadianFilms64]

@@MattSpaugh That's great, yes! Especially when you have so many photos to take, it does make a big difference. Thanks for the reply! :)

[@BlackAsOne1]

You Just gained a New Subscriber. Im new to Photography and I wanna do Headahots. Thank you sir.

[@MattSpaugh]

Welcome! Headshot photography is a niche that I've enjoyed very much. I hope you find more on the channel that will help you out. Thanks for watching and for the encouraging comment!

[@Deoye]

This is amazing… so amazing Pat 👏🏾

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it! Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@True.Motive]

Excellent explanation, Thanks

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@flossmediagroup9530]

Excellent video. Thank you

[@MattSpaugh]

Thanks for watching. I'm headed out tomorrow morning to this same school. Over 500 to shoot this year!

[@KateParrish-e3i]

Thank you so much for the helpful video!

[@MattSpaugh]

I"m glad you found it helpful. I'm packing up right now to do 125+ headshots tomorrow and I'd say that despite how long ago I made this video, most all of it is still accurate. I've made a couple of minor changes to my setup. I might be due to make a refresher! Thanks for watching, and taking the time to comment.

[@mistertentpole]

Good stuff. I will say, I prefer higher power on the flash and higher F stops. I will always beat the ambient light, and I have more latitude with focus. Recycle time isn't an issue for me, I use plug in strobes. I also pose my head shot subjects in a standing position. I do like your idea for use of a rim light. I might try that. Currently, I use an overhead hair light.

[@MattSpaugh]

Every one has their own approach and I appreciate your comment but since I literally have nothing better to do at the moment, I'll try to explain the rationale behind the things you've mentioned: The AD200, even when running 1/4 power, at 1/200 sec. will overpower any ambient light I've ever encountered. Shooting at f/5.6 ensures that the background is out of focus and softens the hairline, minimizing retouching. Sony eye auto-focus is so good, I would be comfortable shooting at f/2 if the situation called for it. I have had almost no out-of-focus headshots since moving to Sony. Cables from plug in strobes can be problematic when you're moving a new subject in every 90 seconds, and those subjects are as young as 4 years old. Sitting my subjects on an angled stool ensures that shoulder angles stay consistent over the course of the entire shoot. I tape the thing to the floor! Trying to explain to each subject how to stand would be a nightmare. High volume is about speed and consistency and anything you can do to increase either one is helpful. Again, I'm not trying to say you're wrong, just hopefully sharing some additional insight into why I do things the way I do. Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts.

[@mistertentpole]

@@MattSpaugh That's a fantastic reply. I love all that you said there. I also love your results. I do high volume all the time, it's my main gig at the moment. I do sorority and fraternity composites. So, I'm not dealing with clumsy little ones. But I do gaff any obvious trip hazard. Because I am working with older Nikon gear and lenses, I measure distance to the posing point (7') to the lens, do my first shot with spot auto on the eye, and run manual the rest of the day with occasional checks. I also put a piece of gaffer tape on the lens focus ring so it for sure won't get bumped. Hasn't let me down, and I get a speed advantage since there's no focus hunting. Again, this is how you and I are different. I do wish I had a Sony rig, but I prefer beer money to new gear. :D

[@milesian1]

@@mistertentpole No need for Sony envy. Nikon gear is awesome, and no one beats Nikkor lenses for the kind of work we're talking about here.

[@ronalddelorme4947]

Great video learned a lot, made yourself a new follower boss!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching!

[@badboydrd]

You have no idea how helpful this was. I definitely learned things that I didn't even know I needed to know. When you were talking about the consistency should be the same if they use the photos for a yearbook or something like that. Do you speak with the organization beforehand to see what the photos will be used for so that you can adjust to their needs?

[@MattSpaugh]

ALWAYS! Most corporate clients only need images for online use, but schools and certain performing arts organizations may need prints or images that will work well for print purposes. If that's the case for you, you might want to watch my video on choosing an aspect ratio for print galleries. I hope that helps, thanks for watching! kzbin.info/www/bejne/hn3NqayiZs9mrNU&t

[@leonard-teo]

I have my very first high volume corporate shoot in a week's time and this video was super helpful. Thanks Matt.

[@MattSpaugh]

Congrats on the work - I'm so glad what I had to offer was helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@leonard-teo]

@@MattSpaugh thanks Matt, quality video 😊

[@stephenobisanya]

Phenomenal walkthrough and workflow, Matt. Thank you so much for sharing so thoroughly!

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful. Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. Thanks for watching!

[@AdrianCook-x3d]

Hi Matt, Thank you so much for the helpful information-I really appreciate it! I’ve been considering branching out from my current role as a graphic designer to focus more on youth team photography, something I already do on a freelance basis. I’d like to approach a couple of schools in my area to offer my services but am unsure of the best way to go about it. If you have any recommendations or advice on how to approach schools effectively, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Once again, thank you for your insights-I’ve learned a lot in such a short amount of time. Best, Adrian

[@MattSpaugh]

You need to have a body of work that will sell your ability. Whether its a website, or instagram or even facebook, they need to see the quality of your work. You need to have photos that will get that school contact excited. As far as approach, I personally stay away from larger schools - too much drama and too much focus getting things as cheaply as possible. I target smaller schools: private, Christian, Montessori etc. and try to position myself as filling a niche for them. Bear in mind, your competition is either a parent that 'does photography' or a massive company that's churning out work from a mill. Both of those can be hard to work with so being personable and reliable will go a LONG way. I hope that helps, thanks for watching.

[@uncleswing4046]

This should have wayyyy more views.

[@MattSpaugh]

Ha - thanks. Check out part 2 if you want more in-depth info (and much higher production value!). Thanks for watching!

[@usmansafdar7213]

VERY helpful. Thank you.

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you liked it! Check out Part 2 if you haven't already. It has some more specific information my gear and process. Thanks for watching!

[@actordesmondmcintyre]

This is a great video. Thank you for this!!!

[@MattSpaugh]

My pleasure! Glad you found it helpful. If you want more details on gear, packing, etc, check out Part II. Thanks for watching!

[@LMActionsports]

I do a 3 light setup when i do my preschool students. I used a 36in octa softbox for my main light to where the students are facing. then i use another 36 inch octa softbox for my fill light, but its a little bit lower facing up to get those shadows underneath the chin both using my ad600’s by godox. 😅Then i use a 13x32 inch strip box gridded for a hair light with my ad300 pro exactly like you do. And since I am taking portraits of young kids, and I have a nice selection of Kate collapsible backdrops that I use a light stand and a super clamp to hold up the backdrop. I let the teacher decide which backdrop she likes, and I don’t really use any lights directly in back of the student on facing the backdrop seeing I have plenty of light Coming from the front. But I do like to keep my camera mounted on the tripod and have it in one place. So everything is lined up and all I have to do is move it up and down. And since now capture one you can tether from your camera to your iPad Pro I have a tripod that holds my tablet up and a tether to it so we can make sure we get a good picture. The students enjoy seeing their pictures. So it’s nice that I can Have copies already on to my tablet +2 copies to each of my SD cards in my camera. Are used to be so scared when it came to working with young children. And now I look forward to it because they are so much fun. Preschool it’s their first class picture. And the parents just go crazy ordering pictures. Thanks for sharing this video. It is very informative. You know I really never tried using a reflector. I’ve always used two lights and my fill Light is usually a half a stop to one full stop darker.

[@MattSpaugh]

The reflector can be problematic - having two lights up front is definitely a safer way to go. I've had to do a lot of retouching on shots where my reflector got moved and wasn't bouncing light where I wanted it. I've played around with adding a fill light up front, but I've got my rig so 'set' that I get nervous about making changes. I'm sure I'd get more consistent results. Maybe I'll do it on my next shoot! Thanks for watching.

[@tenpointlanding]

great video! appreciate the tips

[@MattSpaugh]

Glad you found it helpful - thanks for watching!

[@Destination.Cameron]

This is the most helpful!

[@MattSpaugh]

So glad you found it so! thanks for watching.