Nick Holmes Photography FAQ

No sales pitch

Just Answers.

Whether you're booking a headshot session or an intimate portrait experience — these are the questions I hear most often. Hit me up for anything else.

Headshot Sessions

For actors, professionals,
and anyone who wants to be seen clearly.

How much do sessions cost?
Sessions start at $250 for 30 minutes. I also offer 60- and 120-minute sessions depending on your needs. To my own detriment — I'm not one of those cats tapping his watch.
How many looks do I get?
As many as we can fit into your time without rushing. No limit.
Where does the session happen?
Sessions are held in my home studio in the Hollywood Hills — a creative space with great light and a very diggable city view. It's a chilled-out spot.
What should I wear?
Bring options that reflect range. Neutrals and layers work well. Most importantly — clothes you feel good in.
What exactly is a “look”?
For most photographers, a look means an outfit change. For me, a look is a different lighting setup — and that's a meaningful distinction, because moving lights takes time.

Before your session I like to talk through which lighting directions you want to explore, so I can move through them efficiently. While I'm resetting a light, you can change clothes, redo your hair, touch up your makeup — that's your time and I'm not counting it. Honestly, the more you do in those in-between moments, the more variety you walk away with. It costs me nothing; I'd rather be moving a light than standing still.

So: the session duration is the container. Lighting setups are what I'm managing. Outfits, hair, and makeup changes happen in the gaps, and there's no limit on them.
How long until I get my photos?
Proof gallery in approximately 5 business days. Retouched selections delivered around 5 days after that.
Jennifer Holland — The Shop, Hollywood Hills

Empowerment Portraiture

Black-and-white, honest, intimate.

What is this about?
A highly individualized answer — different for each person. These portraits are for self-expression, self-acceptance, or bold beauty. Self-empowerment is a quest toward a healthy personal narrative. This is a tool to help in the mastery of one's own language.
Do I have to be nude?
Certainly not. Most clients choose items that reflect their curiosity of the moment. Wear — or don't — whatever you wish.
Where do we shoot?
This part of the process has become more bespoke. While I still keep a studio available, it's very common to shoot in a client's own home, or to embrace the playful energy of a hotel or rental. We'll talk it through and decide what setting feels best for you.
How long is the session?
Four to five hours generally. Seems like a lot but I assure you it's a quick ride. We find a rhythm and make the most of our time.
Will these images be shared?
Show them to everyone — or no one. All up to you. Your privacy is absolute. If I'd like to feature anything it only happens with your written permission.

Hair & Makeup

What about makeup and hair?

Should I arrive ready?
You're encouraged to arrive hair and makeup ready. I'm happy to share referrals. Hair and makeup artists are welcome to stay for the duration. For Empowerment Portraiture, the atmosphere is often more personal — who's present is always your call.

One practical note: a look in my sessions is a lighting setup, not an outfit change. While I'm resetting lights between setups, that transition time is yours — change clothes, touch up your makeup, switch your hair. Arrive with multiple outfits and options ready, and use those gaps fully. The more you work those moments, the more range you walk away with.

Booking

Deposit & rescheduling policy.

How do I hold my date?
To reserve your session, I require a $100 deposit — this locks in your date and is applied toward your final balance.
What if I need to reschedule?
No problem. As long as you give me at least 48 hours' notice, your deposit will carry over to a new date with no penalty. If something comes up last-minute — especially an audition — just reach out. I understand this industry. If you cancel entirely rather than reschedule, the deposit is non-refundable.
From the studio — Hollywood Hills

Retouching

What’s included & what it costs.

What’s included with my session?
Every headshot session includes 1 professionally retouched image (2 for the 120-minute session). This covers skin cleanup, light adjustments, and any minor refinements — the goal is to look like the best version of you, not a different person.
How much do additional retouches cost?
Additional retouched images are $45 each. You choose from your proof gallery, I deliver the finished files within 5 business days.
What does retouching include?
Standard retouch: skin tone and texture cleanup, blemish removal, stray hair cleanup, light and shadow refinement, and color grading consistent with your proof gallery selections. I don’t reshape features or apply heavy retouching that removes character — that’s not what gets you cast.
Can I request specific retouching?
Yes. Just note it when you send your selections. I’ll check in if something you’ve requested falls outside the standard scope — I’d rather ask than surprise you with a surcharge.

Good to Know

Additional considerations.

Accessibility
The Workshop is wheelchair accessible, but the adjoining house and restroom are not.
Animals
A small, friendly dog is usually on the premises.
Custom locations
If you'd prefer to shoot somewhere else, I'm happy to travel. A location fee may apply depending on distance and setup needs — just ask.

Still have questions?

I'm easy to reach.

Get in Touch