Frequently Ask Questions

The Strategy & Process

What is your creative philosophy for branding?

My priority is authenticity that builds professional trust. We focus on highlighting your unique personality and authority through expert posing and "master-level" retouching, ensuring you look like the best, most approachable version of your professional self.

Is an in-person consultation required?

It depends on the project. For larger branding projects, an initial consultation is always the right place to start, as it is the best opportunity to ensure your needs, goals, and priorities are clearly understood. Smaller projects like headshots can often be planned through a short consultation over the phone.

Logistics & Efficiency

What is the lead time for booking a session?

Between January and May, we can generally get you in with a few days to a week’s notice, though more time to prepare is always wise for larger projects. During our busier June to December season, we are often booking two weeks out.

How long does a typical session last?

Individual headshot sessions are efficient, typically lasting 10–20 minutes per person. For branding and commercial projects, the duration is tailored entirely to the specific scope and creative needs of your project.

Where do we shoot?

We select locations based on your brand identity—ranging from modern urban architecture and sleek studio setups to environmental "at-work" shots. We know the best spots in Snohomish and King County to give your brand a professional, high-end backdrop. We can also bring a professional mobile studio to your business when appropriate.

What if the weather is poor for an outdoor shoot?

We monitor local weather patterns closely. If conditions aren't ideal for your brand’s aesthetic, we’ll contact you 1–2 days in advance to discuss indoor alternatives or flexible rescheduling options.

Will you provide the images in different crops or sizes?

Yes, we provide high-resolution files suitable for print plus web-ready versions optimized for LinkedIn and website use. If you need specific crops for a unique website layout, let us know during the ordering process.

What is your turnaround time for the final files?

Standard headshots are typically available to proof within 1-3 business days and final delivery with full retouching within 3-4 days of final proof selections. Larger branding projects may take 1-2 weeks. If you have a strict publishing deadline, please let us know during booking so we can prioritize your project.

Do you offer group discounts for entire offices?

Yes, we called it our bundle-n-save solution, but you can think of it as tiered pricing for teams and large organizations looking to unify their professional brand. We can either set up at your corporate office for efficiency or host your team at a nearby studio or peer space.

Do you charge a travel fee?

Travel fees really depend on the scope and needs of the project. Large projects may include line items for travel at reasonable additional costs, while small projects may have reasonable travel costs built into the rates.

Style & Presentation

Can you help me with posing?

Absolutely. Jared is an expert in posture coaching specifically for professionals, ensuring you look confident and capable. We’ll guide every movement—down to what to do with your hands—so you can relax and focus on looking your best.

What should I wear for my branding session?

Wardrobe is a primary focus of our initial consultation. We’ll review your brand colors and professional goals to help you select outfits that are flattering, authoritative, and perfectly suited to your industry. Get our free plan and prep guide>>

Do you offer Hair and Makeup services?

We can! We often partner with a professional artist who understands how to style for high-definition studio lighting. Her work ensures you feel confident and look radiant, resulting in a polished professional image that stands out. Ask us about adding this as a service!

Can you match our existing corporate headshot style?

Absolutely. If your company has specific brand guidelines or existing headshots you need to match, please share those examples with us. We’ll adjust our lighting and backdrops to ensure a seamless, unified look across your organization.

Assets & Investment

How do you handle billing and payments?

We make the process simple with a streamlined digital invoicing system. A retainer is required to secure your date, and we accept all major credit cards. For larger projects exceeding $5,000, we are happy to discuss flexible payment terms, such as Net 30 or 60, to fit your organization's needs.

Can I purchase the digital files OR LICENSING?

Yes, a general commercial license is included with all digital files provided in your session or purchased afterward. If your organization requires a full copyright transfer, we can discuss those specific requirements during your consultation.

Do you offer retouching?

Yes, every professional image includes master-level retouching as standard. We handle distractions like skin blemishes, stray hairs, and minimize clothing wrinkles, ensuring your final headshots are clean, professional, and presentation-ready.

How many photos will I receive?

The number of images you receive is more about the scope and needs of the project. Generally speaking, we provide more options than you think you will need, and you make the final selections on any you actually want.

Can I view my images via an online gallery?

We offer online galleries for certain projects, while others are better served through a guided in-person selection. Once we understand the scope of your specific project, we will advise you on the most efficient solution for proofing and viewing your images.

What happens if I need more images later?

We generally archive your purchased portraits for at least one year, so you can always reach out if you need a fresh download. Because storage space is limited, unselected images are only held for 30 days, so be sure to finalize your favorites during your ordering window!

Miscellaneous

Do you offer mini-sessions?

Generally speaking, we do not host mini-sessions at this time. On select occasions, however, we do have partnering clients who open up their sessions or venue to others seeking minis as a way to serve their professional community. Please ask for more details if this is of interest to you.

Who owns the rights to the photos?

While our studio retains the authorship (copyright), you receive a broad commercial license to use the images for marketing, PR, and social media. This allows you to use the assets across “most” mainstream professional platforms and publications without additional fees. Please ask us about any specific licensing or copyright needs that are important to your organization.

Do you have liability insurance?

Yes, Jared M. Burns Photography is fully insured. We can provide a Certificate of Insurance (COI) if your corporate office or venue requires it prior to us shooting on-site.

Do you offer event coverage?

Generally speaking, we do not offer “event only” coverage, but we have been known to make exceptions when a portrait element is involved or when part of an annual report project.

Can I get a passport or biometric photo here?

We are not set up for biometric or passport photography, as our studio is dedicated to custom portrait art. For those specific needs, we recommend contacting your local post office or a specialized shipping center, which can typically assist you for a small fee.

What kind of equipment do you use?

We use professional Nikon mirrorless systems, high-end Z-mount lenses, and advanced studio lighting. Images are edited on custom-built workstations.

Do you offer trade printing services?

Yes, we offer professional trade printing that most other photographers and creatives do not have access to. Let us know more about any large-format printing needs for signs and banners, custom promotional products, flyers and mailings, and many other creative marketing essentials.