What to Ask Before a Headshot Session: A Photographer’s Client Questionnaire
A headshot client questionnaire helps you confirm image use, style, wardrobe, comfort and delivery before the session. Keep it short: ask questions whose answers will change how you prepare.
I cover the broader client workflow in The Complete Guide to Running a Profitable Photography Business. My rule for a useful questionnaire: keep the questions that change your preparation.
Key Takeaways
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10 Questions to Ask Before a Headshot Session
You can adapt these questions for your booking form or consultation. Avoid asking clients to repeat contact details and dates already in your system.
Ask the client | Use the answer to plan |
Where will you use these headshots? Please share links or specifications. | Check crops, orientation, background rules and intended uses. |
Who will see the photographs, and what do you want to communicate? | Choose a direction for expression, styling and lighting. |
Do the images need to match an existing team or company style? | Request a reference image and written brand requirements. |
Which photographs are essential, and how many finished images do you need? | Prioritize the shot list and confirm the booked scope. |
What are you planning to wear, and how many outfits would you like? | Allow time for changes and check clothing against the background. |
Are there example images you like? What do you like about them? | Separate preferences for lighting, expression, color and crop. |
Is there anything about being photographed that you want me to know? | Adapt your coaching and give the client room to raise concerns. |
Would any adjustments help you feel comfortable during the session? | Plan seating, breaks, access or a quieter environment as needed. |
When do you need the finished files, and who approves the selections? | Work backward from the deadline, including selection and editing time. |
Who is the day-of contact, and are there any access or parking details? | Confirm arrival instructions, setup access and communication. |
Use the Answers to Make Decisions
“Professional” can mean different things to different clients. Ask for the actual website, company standard or example image. Then clarify whether they like the expression, wardrobe, background or lighting.
For background choices, see my portrait background guide. If the client wants to review images as you shoot, consider tethered shooting for portraits when planning the setup.
The American Society of Media Photographers’ assignment photography guide also emphasizes agreeing on the assignment and intended image use before production. Ask where the files will appear so you can plan the right crops and deliverables.
Keep questions about comfort optional. Ask whether seating, breaks or another practical adjustment would help; you do not need a medical history to prepare a comfortable session.
“Before I plan the lighting, I want to understand what the client needs the photographs to do. That gives every decision in the session a purpose.” — Austen Hunter
Example: Turn a Response Into a Session Plan
Imagine a consultant needs a LinkedIn photo and a speaker-page portrait. Their company requires a gray background, they are bringing a navy jacket, and the files are due Friday.
I’d prepare the gray background, check both crops, and confirm when the client must choose their images to allow time for editing. If they needed two finished images but booked one, I’d agree on the extra image before shooting.
Send a short recap they can check: “Gray background, navy jacket, two finished images for LinkedIn and your speaker page. Selections by Tuesday for Friday delivery.” For the rest of the process, see my guide to communication before and after a portrait session.
Check the Booking Details Before Sending
A questionnaire gathers requests; the booking agreement records what you have agreed to provide. Compare the image count, editing, delivery date and intended uses with your quote. My photography contract guide explains those details.
The AHP Learn Photography Contract Bundle includes an editable general Pre-Session Client Questionnaire. Remove unrelated session types, add your headshot requirements and replace the business placeholders before sending it.
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I send the questionnaire?
After booking, with enough time to act on the answers. A week ahead can work; for a short-notice session, cover the essentials in a brief call.
How long should it be?
Only as long as needed to prepare. Remove questions already answered during booking and follow up where an answer changes the plan.
What changes for a company headshot day?
Ask the organizer about headcount, schedule, room access, consistent styling, file naming and approvals. Ask individuals only about their preferences and practical needs.
What if the client does not know what they want?
Start with where the image will appear. Show two or three examples from your work and discuss what they like about each.
Does the bundle include a headshot-only questionnaire?
It includes a general Pre-Session Client Questionnaire covering several session types. Use this article to adapt it for your headshot business.
Get an Editable Starting Point
Use the questions above on their own, or customize the Pre-Session Client Questionnaire included in the AHP Learn Photography Contract Bundle.
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