Frequently Asked Questions…

  • Where do you shoot?

    Jamaal shoots in his home studio in Sherman Oaks, CA.

  • What should I bring?

    Bring clothing choices, anything you need for your shoot and a great attitude.

  • Is there parking?

    Plenty of free street parking is available.

  • When will I get my pictures?

    All proofs will be sent within 3-5 business days after your shoot; in some cases you may receive them sooner.

  • Do you have a changing area?

    Yes. Our Studio has a private restroom, hair and make-up area, body mirror, clothing rack, hangers, steamer and a fridge with beverages.

  • Do you shoot in Natural Light or in a Studio?

    Jamaal shoots with a mix of Natural Light and Strobe. It depends on the vibe and looks you’re going for. If you have light sensitivities, please let us know in advance.

  • Do you have props?

    We have an array of eye glasses. You’ll be surprised how much a pair of glasses gives a different vibe. No other props are needed for your headshots - your eyes are the stars!

  • What is a Look?

    “Looks” are a outfit change, different background, lighting variation, and/or change in makeup/hair.

  • Do you do Editorial and Lifestyle?

    Yes. Email us at contact@photosbyjamaal.com so we can discuss your project needs and how we can make your dream a reality.

  • Do any talent agencies recommend you?

    Yes. Jamaal is on a plethora of agency list, from boutique to many of the well known agencies.

  • Can I bring a family member or friend?

    Yes. Just let us know in advance!

  • What kind of camera do you use?

    Jamaal shoots on a Canon R5.

  • Do you do Model Digitals?

    Yes. Visit our Model Digitals page for all detailed information.

  • Do you do Corporate Headshots?

    Yes. Email us at contact@photosbyjamaal.com so we can discuss your organization’s needs.

  • Do you provide Hair & Make Up?

    Yes. Our in-house MUAs understand Jamaal's lighting, hi-resolution shooting style, color theory and work on all skin tones & undertones. They are some of the best in the film & television industry and come highly recommended.

    On-camera make up is different from everyday make up and thus each artist that we work with has been chosen by Jamaal based on their skill set.

  • I loved so many headshots. Can I buy more retouched images?

    For additional images outside your package:
    - $20 per image for the first 1-4 images.
    - For any additional image after 4, it is $15 per image.cription goes here

  • Can I speak with Jamaal on the phone?

    Jamaal rarely has time to talk on the phone as he’s busy capturing amazing headshots with actors On Set.

    Jamaal does spend time with each actor at the beginning of their session to go over looks, wardrobe options, agent and/or manager request and any other concerns.

    Any questions you may have; his assistant will be glad to answer them for you prior to your session.

  • Do you provide wardrobe?

    We don’t provide wardrobe for photoshoots. You’ll bring your own outfits.
    Think about the roles you want to audition for, and choose looks that match those types.

    Need extra help? A Stylist can pull great options and make sure you’re camera-ready.

  • How long are the shoots?

    It depends on the package you choose and if you are getting your hair and/or makeup done. A good range is 1 Hour to 4 Hours.

  • Can I have the RAW Files from the photoshoot?

    I don’t typically provide RAW files.

    RAW files are large, unprocessed, and not a final representation of the work. Part of my service includes selecting and delivering high-resolution images that are color corrected and properly framed.

    This ensures you're receiving polished, professional-quality results.ere

  • Do you require a deposit?

    Do you require a deposit?
    Yes. A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date and must be paid within 24 hours of scheduling.

    If you reschedule for any reason, a new deposit will be required to reserve the new date. This applies to full reschedules, partial reschedules, or changes made on the same day as your session. In all cases, the original deposit will be forfeited.

    This policy exists because your original date and time are reserved exclusively for you and are removed from availability once booked. Holding that slot means we may turn away other clients who wish to book the same date and time. When a session is rescheduled, it creates a gap that often cannot be filled on short notice, resulting in a direct loss of business. The deposit offsets this loss and ensures that our time and resources are respected.

  • How does the deposit work?

    How does the deposit work?
    Your deposit is part of your total session fee. It is not an extra charge.

    Example:

    Session price: $375

    Deposit paid at booking: $100

    Amount due at shoot: $275

    If you reschedule or cancel, your original deposit is forfeited. Any other payments made (beyond the deposit) will be applied as credit toward a future session, valid for 6 months. A new deposit will still be required to hold the new date.

  • What is your refund policy?

    REFUND POLICY:

    All payments to Photos By Jamaal are non-refundable.

    A non-refundable deposit is required to secure your date. This deposit is applied toward your final session balance. For example, if your session is $375 and you’ve paid a $100 deposit, you’ll owe $275 at the shoot.

    We understand that life happens — auditions pop up, kids get sick, and sometimes your curls just don’t cooperate. While we don’t offer refunds (due to the time and preparation that goes into every shoot), we do offer options:

    Need to reschedule? You can book a new date, but a new deposit will be required to hold it. The original deposit will be forfeited, as the first date was held exclusively for you. Any additional amount you’ve already paid (beyond the deposit) will be applied as credit toward the new session.

    Can’t make it at all? You can gift your session credit (minus the forfeited deposit) to a friend, co-worker, or family member.

    Want to shoot later? You can apply your payment (minus the forfeited deposit) as studio credit toward a future session, valid for up to 6 months. A new deposit will still be required to reserve the date.

    By booking a session, you agree to these terms.

  • What about Make-Up & Hair?

    Makeup & Grooming Services (Optional Add-On)

    We work with top-tier professional makeup artists who specialize in all skin tones and hair textures. You’re welcome to book one of our trusted MUAs through the studio or bring your own artist.

    Our makeup artists remain on set for the entire session to ensure consistency, touch-ups, and polished results.

    Headshot Makeup Options & Rates

    Headshot “GLAM” (2–4 Looks)

    Best for female-presenting actors and models
    Includes full makeup application

    First 2 looks: $175

    Each additional look/change: $25

    Headshot “GROOMING” (2–4 Looks)

    Best for male-presenting actors and models
    Includes light, natural makeup for skin balancing and shine control

    Flat rate: $150

    Reapplication after shave or facial hair trim: $25

    Unlimited Headshot “GLAM”

    Flat rate: $275

    Each additional look/change: $25

    Unlimited Headshot “GROOMING”

    Flat rate: $225

    Additional charge applies for shave or facial hair trim reapplication

    Hair Styling

    Light styling only (curls, straightening, smoothing, and touch-ups)

    Not full hairstyling

    Additional rates apply for wigs, extensions, or major styling changes

    Included with makeup services

    Bringing Your Own Makeup Artist

    You are also welcome to:

    Bring your own MUA, or

    Do your own makeup

    If you choose this option, please arrive camera-ready or nearly finished. Our studio includes a vanity area for final touch-ups.