“I highly recommend Stephanie Selby Photography for anyone looking to elevate their professional brand! What truly sets Stephanie apart is her ability to make you feel comfortable in front of the camera while guiding you through poses that look natural and confident.” – Carolyn Hillegass, Business Coach Client Spotlight: Professional Headshot Client Creating the perfect […]

Professional Meets Approachable: The Art of Perfect Headshots for Coaches

Professional Headshots

“My experience with Stephanie Selby was nothing short of extraordinary. From the moment we began the photo shoot, she created an atmosphere that was both fun and relaxed, allowing me to feel completely at ease. Stephanie has a rare and beautiful gift—she doesn’t just take photos; she captures the essence of who you truly are. […]

What we love most about headshots is when clients feel truly seen and understood.

Professional Headshots

“Working with Stephanie is truly an experience every professional woman deserves. From the moment I stepped into her stunning studio, I felt a sense of ease and excitement. Her space is like a dream come true—every detail, from the beautifully curated backgrounds to the thoughtful lighting, feels like it’s tailored just for you. Stephanie’s warmth […]

Luxury headshots, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to create an environment of comfort and confidence.

Professional Headshots

“I had the absolute best experience working with Stephanie for my headshots! She made me feel completely at ease, and I loved how natural and relaxed I looked. In just one hour, she captured such a wide variety of looks, giving me so many great options to choose from. The complimentary hair and makeup were […]

The perfect headshot session should feel effortless and enjoyable.

Professional Headshots

“Working with Stephanie for my real estate headshots was a fantastic experience! She has a warm and welcoming presence that instantly put me at ease, making the session enjoyable and stress-free. Her talent for capturing natural, high-quality photos is truly impressive, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I highly recommend her to anyone […]

Creating the perfect real estate headshot with Kylene.

Professional Headshots

“I had the most amazing experience with Stephanie! The makeup artist was so fun to work with and even gave me some great tips! She made me look like the beauty I dream of being! Stephanie knew exactly how to capture my personality and gave me some amazing pictures to use in my marketing. Both […]

Professional headshots done with the perfect blend of professionalism and personality.

Professional Headshots

“Working with Stephanie and her team for my corporate headshots was a great experience. With our brand expanding and numerous speaking engagements and PR releases on the horizon, it was essential to project a professional image. Stephanie guided me through style choices, poses, and selections to ensure everything perfectly aligned with our brand.” Client Spotlight: […]

Charleston’s own Vicious Biscuit owner chose us for his recent corporate headshots.

Professional Headshots

“The team at Stephanie Selby Photography is dedicated to excellence from the first phone call. Not only do they provide an inviting and friendly atmosphere, they manage every detail with such expertise and proficiency, truly allowing you to feel comfortable with the experience. Hands down, one of the best decisions I’ve made for my business […]

Bright and vibrant realtor headshot sessions make being a headshot photographer so worth it!

Professional Headshots

“Stephanie and her team were amazing just like I keep hearing. So glad I made the decision to get some new head shots done. They helped me plan my outfits, they styled my hair and make-up and the entire experience was just down right fun. Now I have some new shots for social media, my […]

A recent visit to our Mount Pleasant studio for a transformative headshot photoshoot.

Professional Headshots

“Stephanie and her team did an amazing job! I was nervous about the photoshoot but they made me feel so comfortable and made it easy and fun. The consultation, list of things to do beforehand, and recommendations for prep beforehand made me feel so much more confident leading up to the day. I highly recommend […]

It was a pleasure working with a dynamic realtor at Player Partners, for her professional headshot photos.

Professional Headshots

“My experience with Stephanie Selby Photography was truly incredible from start to finish. The entire process was so easy starting with a Zoom call where everything I could possibly need was reviewed in detail, making me feel completely prepared. Walking into the studio was such a seamless experience. Desi did my hair and makeup, and […]

Creating a fun, relaxed atmosphere for our professional headshot clients.

Professional Headshots

Client Spotlight: Professional Headshot Stephanie Selby Photography is excited to showcase Andrea Dandridge Ulmer, a delightful client who recently embarked on a professional headshot session journey with us! Andrea is a prominent figure in the real estate scene as a Real Estate Broker Associate at Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage. However, our collaboration with Andrea was […]

Spotlight on Andrea Dandridge Ulmer: A Professional Headshot Experience

Professional Headshots

Welcome to our blog series, where we take you behind the scenes of our headshot sessions and share the stunning results from some truly inspiring clients. This space is all about celebrating the individuals who step in front of our lens. Their stories, accomplishments, and the powerful images that reflect their unique journeys.

Behind the Lens: A Look at Our Headshot Photoshoots

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Every professional headshot has its own story, and this blog is your front-row seat to seeing how we bring those stories to life. Whether it's a professional launching a new brand, a creative showcasing their artistry, or a corporate leader reinforcing their presence, these posts offer an inside look at the people who trust us to capture their headshots and branding photos. 

Each entry highlights not just the finished product but also the journey that got us there. You'll read about how our clients prepared for their sessions, how they envisioned their perfect image and the collaborative process that made it happen. 

For us, this blog is a celebration. It’s about recognizing the people who have allowed us to be part of their professional and personal stories. It’s also a way to inspire those considering their own headshot photoshoot session. Whether you're dreaming of a fresh, polished image or simply curious about the process, these posts are here to show you what’s possible.

Stay tuned as we showcase incredible headshot portraits and the amazing individuals behind them. Let’s celebrate confidence, creativity, and the transformative power of stepping in front of the camera.

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Choosing the right headshot photographer in Charleston starts with knowing what to look for. At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we’ve answered the most common questions professionals, creatives, and business owners ask about getting the perfect headshot. Whether you’re preparing for your first session or refreshing your brand image, these FAQs cover everything you need to know about styles, pricing, preparation, and what makes our full-service experience stand out in the Lowcountry.

Charleston Headshot Photography FAQs

A professional headshot is a high-quality portrait that showcases your personality, confidence, and professionalism in a single frame. It’s often the first impression you make online, whether on LinkedIn, your company website, or social media. In a market like Charleston, South Carolina, where business, hospitality, and creative industries thrive, a polished headshot can instantly elevate your professional presence and credibility.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we specialize in creating headshots that go beyond a simple photo. Every image is designed to communicate trust, warmth, and approachability—qualities that attract employers, clients, and collaborators. A professional headshot is more than just an image; it’s an investment in your personal brand or business and the way you’re perceived in both digital and real-world settings.

A great headshot captures the perfect balance of authentic expression, flattering light, and confident posture. It’s not about stiff smiles or over-editing—it’s about showing the best version of you. Lighting and composition play key roles, but the true difference lies in direction. That’s why our Charleston headshot sessions include professional coaching on angles, posture, and micro-expressions that communicate confidence and approachability.

From corporate executives in Mount Pleasant to creative entrepreneurs in Downtown Charleston, the standout headshots we create have one thing in common: they look natural and refined. With expert posing, premium retouching, and attention to detail, we ensure your final images feel authentic while projecting professionalism across every platform from LinkedIn to press features.
A professional headshot can directly influence how others perceive your credibility and competence. In today’s visual world, your headshot often determines whether someone decides to click, connect, or hire. For professionals across Charleston and the Lowcountry, an updated headshot helps you:

  • Attract better opportunities — Recruiters, clients, and collaborators are drawn to individuals who present themselves with clarity and confidence.
  • Build brand trust — A cohesive set of team headshots on your company website creates a unified, polished image that strengthens brand reputation.
  • Increase visibility and engagement — Whether on LinkedIn, your portfolio, or Google Business Profile, professional images generate stronger engagement and conversions.

At Stephanie Selby Photography, we’ve seen clients secure new jobs, land media features, and close more business simply by showing up online with imagery that conveys professionalism and authenticity.

A corporate headshot is polished, professional, and designed to represent you within your company or industry. It often uses a simple background, clean lighting, and business attire to communicate trust and credibility. Corporate headshots are perfect for LinkedIn profiles, company websites, and press releases.

A personal branding portrait is more expressive and creative. It focuses on personality, storytelling, and lifestyle elements that reflect who you are beyond your title. These portraits are ideal for entrepreneurs, creatives, and small business owners throughout Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Daniel Island who want their brand to feel approachable and unique.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we help you choose the right style for your goals or blend both to create a professional yet personal image library that captures every side of your brand.
It depends on how you plan to use your images.

  • Choose a corporate headshot if you represent a company or professional team and need consistent, formal images for staff directories, corporate websites, or investor materials.
  • Select a business headshot if you want one strong professional portrait for platforms like LinkedIn, email signatures, or public speaking engagements.
  • Book a personal branding session if you are an entrepreneur, coach, or creative professional who wants multiple images for marketing, social media, and websites that tell your story.

If you are unsure, our Charleston headshot photographer team will guide you through your options and help you select a session that aligns perfectly with your goals and career stage.

Professional headshot pricing in Charleston, South Carolina, typically ranges from $250 to $700, depending on session length, wardrobe changes, and retouching.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we offer customized packages for individuals, business owners, and teams. Each session includes a consultation, professional hair and makeup, expert posing guidance, and retouched digital images that are ready for print or online use.

Our clients across Downtown Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Isle of Palms value the experience as much as the results. Investing in a professional headshot helps you present yourself with confidence, attract more opportunities, and stand out in competitive industries.
Every headshot session at Stephanie Selby Photography Studio is a full-service experience designed to help you look and feel confident from start to finish. Each session includes a pre-shoot consultation to discuss your goals, wardrobe guidance to help you choose what photographs best, and professional hair and makeup to ensure a polished, camera-ready look.

During the session, Stephanie provides expert posing direction and personalized adjustments to bring out your most natural and confident expressions. After your shoot, your images are carefully retouched and delivered in high resolution, ready for both digital and print use. Whether you need a single professional portrait or a full portfolio for branding, every detail is tailored to your needs.
To secure your preferred date and time, it’s best to book your headshot session two to three weeks in advance. This allows time for preparation, outfit planning, and coordination with our hair and makeup team.

Our Mount Pleasant studio and Charleston-area outdoor locations fill quickly during peak seasons, especially spring and fall. If you have an upcoming speaking engagement, media feature, or website launch, booking early ensures your session fits perfectly into your timeline. For urgent needs, contact us directly to check for last-minute openings.
Yes, at Stephanie Selby Photography, we offer rush delivery options for clients who need professional images quickly. Whether you have an upcoming conference, press feature, or job interview, we can prioritize your session and fast-track the retouching process.

Rush delivery is available for both in-studio and on-location headshots throughout the Charleston area, including Downtown Charleston, Daniel Island, and Mount Pleasant. When booking, simply mention your deadline, and we’ll confirm turnaround options that meet your schedule without compromising quality.
Most professionals in Charleston, SC update their headshots every 8 to 12 months or anytime their appearance, role, or brand changes. A current headshot ensures your online presence reflects who you are today. Whether you have changed your hairstyle, achieved a career milestone, or refreshed your brand identity, updating your headshot keeps your image consistent and trustworthy across every platform.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, many clients schedule annual refresh sessions so their headshot photos always look polished and up to date. A modern, high-quality headshot communicates growth, confidence, and credibility to clients, colleagues, and potential employers.

Every session at Stephanie Selby Photography Studio is designed to be relaxed, professional, and personalized to you. We begin with a brief consultation to discuss your goals and how you want to be portrayed. Our hair and makeup artist ensures you look natural and camera-ready while Stephanie guides you through flattering angles and expressions.

During your session, you will have time for multiple outfit changes and background options. We review images together so you can see what you love before selecting your favorites for professional retouching. Whether you are booking a corporate headshot in Mount Pleasant or a personal branding session in downtown Charleston, you can expect a seamless experience and results that feel confident and authentic.
Preparation makes a big difference in the outcome of your headshot photography session. Start by getting a good night’s sleep, drinking plenty of water, and avoiding last-minute skin treatments or drastic hairstyle changes. Choose your wardrobe in advance, press or steam clothing, and bring a few backup options in case something photographs better than expected.

On the day of your session, arrive with clean, dry hair and a light layer of moisturizer. Our team will take care of the rest, from hair and makeup to posing and expression coaching. At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we ensure that every client feels confident, comfortable, and ready to capture stunning headshots or branding portraits that truly represent their best self across all professional platforms.
Yes. Every headshot session at Stephanie Selby Photography Studio includes professional hair and makeup. This service ensures you look polished, confident, and ready for the camera while maintaining a natural, authentic appearance.

Our beauty team enhances your best features and tailors your look to the type of session you are booking, whether it is a corporate headshot in Mount Pleasant, a branding portrait in North Charleston, or an actor headshot. You can relax knowing our artists specialize in camera-ready styling that photographs beautifully under studio lighting. Arrive with clean, dry hair, and we will handle the rest.
Clothing should reflect your personal brand and the level of professionalism expected in your industry. Solid colors, clean lines, and well-fitted pieces photograph best. Avoid busy patterns, large logos, and overly bright colors that draw attention away from your face.

For a timeless and elevated look, Charleston professionals often choose neutral tones like navy, white, gray, or beige, along with one or two accent colors that match their brand palette. Bring a mix of formal and casual outfits so you have variety in your final images. During your pre-session consultation, we will review your wardrobe choices together and guide you on what photographs best in our lighting and background setups.

Colors that complement your skin tone and align with your personal or company brand will always look best. Jewel tones such as emerald, sapphire, or burgundy photograph beautifully, while neutral colors like gray, navy, cream, and black are versatile choices for corporate or LinkedIn headshots.

For Charleston clients shooting outdoors, we often recommend earth tones and soft blues that complement the Lowcountry landscape and warm coastal light. Bold colors can work well for creative professionals, especially when balanced with neutral layering pieces. At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we help you select colors that bring out your natural features and ensure your portraits look cohesive across all platforms.

Bringing multiple outfit options ensures you have variety in your final images. At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we recommend bringing two to four outfits that reflect different sides of your professional personality. Include one formal look, one business-casual option, and a few creative or relaxed pieces if your session includes personal branding images.

Charleston professionals often choose lightweight layers that photograph well in our Mount Pleasant studio or outdoors in downtown Charleston. During your pre-session consultation, we will review your wardrobe choices and help you select the best pieces for your background, lighting, and brand style.
If you wear glasses daily, you should absolutely include them in your headshots to maintain authenticity. Our studio lighting setup minimizes reflections, and we can make small angle adjustments to keep your eyes clearly visible.

If you prefer both looks, we can capture images with and without glasses during your Charleston headshot session. For clients with strong prescriptions, consider bringing a second pair with non-reflective or lens-free frames to prevent glare. The goal is to help you look natural and confident while accurately representing how you appear in your professional life.
Yes, you are welcome to bring items that reflect your profession or brand personality. Thoughtful props can enhance a personal branding session or add a touch of individuality to your corporate headshots. Examples include laptops, notebooks, tools of your trade, or branded products if you are an entrepreneur or small business owner.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we often incorporate subtle props for clients in Charleston’s creative, real estate, and business communities. They can help tell your story and give your portraits a polished, professional edge. Before your session, we will discuss which items will complement your look without distracting from your expression.
Most headshot sessions at Stephanie Selby Photography Studio last between 60 and 90 minutes. This allows time for professional hair and makeup, wardrobe changes, multiple lighting setups, and reviewing images together.

If you are booking a corporate headshot in Mount Pleasant or a personal branding photoshoot session in Downtown Charleston, the time can vary slightly based on the number of looks and locations. We never rush the process. Our focus is on creating a comfortable atmosphere so you feel relaxed, confident, and fully prepared to capture portraits you will love.
Both settings can produce stunning results, and the choice depends on your brand style and how you plan to use your images.
  • In-studio Headshots provide controlled lighting and clean backdrops that feel timeless and professional. They are ideal for LinkedIn, company websites, and formal business use.
  • Outdoor Headshots create a more natural, lifestyle feel and are perfect for entrepreneurs, creatives, and real estate professionals who want personality and warmth in their photos.
At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we photograph clients throughout Charleston, James Island, and the Lowcountry, offering both studio and outdoor options so you can have the best of both worlds.
The right background depends on your profession and desired tone. For corporate headshots, we recommend simple and neutral studio backdrops such as white, gray, or charcoal, which keep the focus on your expression. For personal branding or creative sessions, we can use textured walls, soft color tones, or environmental settings that add depth and personality.

Charleston provides beautiful location options for outdoor headshots, including Rainbow Row, The Battery, and Waterfront Park, all known for their elegant natural light. Our team will guide you in choosing a background that complements your wardrobe, skin tone, and overall brand aesthetic.
Charleston offers a variety of beautiful outdoor locations for professional headshots, each with its own unique atmosphere. Many clients love the charm of Downtown Charleston, where cobblestone streets, pastel architecture, and historic details create timeless backdrops. The Battery and White Point Garden provide lush greenery and elegant light, while Waterfront Park offers soft coastal tones with scenic harbor views.

For a modern and coastal vibe, sessions on Daniel Island, Mount Pleasant, or Johns Island provide clean lines and bright, natural light. At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we help you select the perfect location based on your goals, wardrobe, and brand style so every detail aligns with the image you want to project.
Confidence in front of the camera comes from preparation and expert direction. Before your session, spend a few minutes practicing relaxed facial expressions in the mirror. Think about a moment or memory that makes you feel proud, successful, or happy, as this naturally softens your expression.

During your Charleston headshot session, Stephanie will guide you through flattering angles and small posture adjustments that convey strength and approachability. Good posture, steady breathing, and genuine eye contact with the camera help you look poised and self-assured. The result is a portrait that feels natural, confident, and unmistakably you.
The best poses are those that feel comfortable and genuine. Most professionals look their best with relaxed shoulders, a gentle tilt to the body, and soft engagement through the eyes. Small changes in chin position, hand placement, or posture can make a big difference in the final image.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we guide you through subtle posing techniques that highlight your features and complement your personality. Whether it is a corporate headshot in Mount Pleasant or a branding session in Downtown Charleston, our posing direction helps you appear confident, approachable, and professional without ever feeling stiff or overly posed. If you want to draw inspiration from previous professionals we’ve photographed, head over to our blog, which showcases past client headshot photoshoot sessions.
Yes. Every session at Stephanie Selby Photography Studio includes professional retouching designed to enhance your natural features while keeping your portraits authentic. Our goal is to make you look like your best self on your best day.

Retouching includes light skin smoothing, blemish removal, color correction, and adjustments to lighting and contrast for a polished, professional finish. We never over-edit or alter your appearance. Instead, we refine your image with subtle techniques that highlight your confidence and expression. Whether your session takes place in Mount Pleasant or Downtown Charleston, every final portrait is carefully edited for a timeless and elevated result.
Yes. We specialize in actor headshots in Charleston, South Carolina, designed to capture your versatility and personality in a way that stands out to casting directors. These sessions include guidance on expressions, wardrobe, and angles to showcase different aspects of your range.

Actor headshots can be photographed in our Mount Pleasant studio or outdoors in Downtown Charleston to achieve a more cinematic look. We use lighting and posing techniques that meet industry standards for film, television, and theater. Every actor receives a gallery of expressions and looks suitable for submissions, auditions, and professional portfolios.

Actors and performers need headshots that look genuine, expressive, and true to their personality. Close-up images with natural light and simple backgrounds tend to perform best for casting purposes. These photos should highlight your facial structure, eye contact, and energy without distractions from heavy makeup or complex styling.

At Stephanie Selby Photography Studio, we focus on creating headshots that feel honest and industry-ready. Whether you are an actor in Charleston, a performer working in Mount Pleasant, or a theater artist in Summerville, we tailor each session to capture your authentic presence on camera. The result is a collection of portraits that make a memorable impression with agents, directors, and casting professionals.