FAQ

I believe great headshots capture who you really are — not a forced smile or a pose you saw on Pinterest. As an Enneagram 7, I bring a lot of energy, encouragement, and playfulness to every shoot. I’ll hype you up, make you laugh, and create a space where you can genuinely relax and feel like yourself. I want you to walk away feeling confident, comfortable, and seen — like you just spent an hour hanging out with a friend who happens to have a camera. My focus is on capturing the spark and magic you’ll bring to every project you book.

I’ve been photographing people for nearly fifteen years, and what I’ve learned is that the camera has this quiet ability to bring out truth — the real, unguarded moments that show who you are. Some of my closest friendships started behind the lens, because photoshoots are vulnerable, connecting experiences that go way beyond the images themselves.

That’s why finding the right photographer matters so much. It’s not just about angles or lighting — it’s about trust, comfort, and how you feel when the camera is pointed at you. I want you to feel comfortable, confident, and inspired every step of the way.

And if that energy isn’t with me, that’s completely okay. There are so many talented photographers in the PNW, and I genuinely want you to find the one who makes you feel most like yourself — because that’s when the real magic happens.

If we do end up working together, I promise you it is my goal for you to feel celebrated, supported, and completely yourself in front of my camera.

I received a minor in photography from Northern Arizona University, where I learned the technical foundations of lighting, cameras, and composition — but my most formative education has come from nearly 15 years behind the lens.

In that time, I’ve refined my craft across portraiture, brand, and lifestyle work, collaborating with hundreds of clients and seeing my photography featured in outlets like Fast Company, Huffington Post, Broadway World, Soulbase Magazine, Oregon Live, and more.

Photography has taken me all over the world — I’ve flown thousands of miles, climbed mountains in the Arctic Circle, and stayed awake until sunrise chasing the perfect light. But even more meaningful than the places it’s taken me are the people it’s connected me to. I’ve had the gift of photographing people in love, marrying the love of their life, welcoming their babies, celebrating newfound independence, and launching their dream businesses. Along the way, I’ve built lifelong friendships and witnessed some of the most intimate, joyful moments of people’s lives.

Alongside my photography career, I’ve also trained extensively in acting, which gives me a unique ability to help clients find natural, dynamic expressions that feel alive, real, and full of emotion.

I shoot with a Canon R6 and a mix of professional lenses that create flattering, cinematic depth — most often a 28–70mm or 85mm prime for portraits. I love working with natural light whenever possible, but depending on your session, I may also use LED continuous lighting or on/off-camera flash to shape light beautifully and make real-time adjustments.

Yes! I can connect you with a few trusted Portland-based hair and makeup artists who specialize in camera-ready looks tailored to your session type. You’re also welcome to bring your own artist if you already have someone you love working with.

Once you book, I’ll send over a Pinterest board of wardrobe, hair, and makeup inspiration to help you start visualizing your looks and get ideas for what photographs best. I’m also happy to hop on a quick 15-minute prep call before your session to talk through your goals, vibe, and styling.

You’re welcome to send me photos of your wardrobe options anytime for feedback — I love helping clients narrow down what will look best on camera and capture the right vibe!

Wear something that feels like you — comfortable, confident, and true to your style. Neutral or solid colors always photograph beautifully, and layers or textures add depth without distraction. Avoid busy patterns or large logos that can pull focus. For families or groups, I suggest coordinating colors instead of matching exactly — think complementary tones that look good together while letting everyone’s personality shine. And don’t forget to give your outfits a quick steam or iron beforehand so everything looks polished on camera.

You are already the most perfect version of you. My goal isn’t to change how you look — it’s to capture the best version of you. I create a body-neutral, affirming space where you can feel comfortable, confident, and seen.

It’s completely normal to feel a little nervous about being photographed — most people do! My job is to use flattering lighting, thoughtful posing, and gentle direction to help you look and feel your best in front of the camera.

When it comes to editing, I’ll lightly smooth skin and make quick fixes like removing blemishes or flyaways, while always keeping your photos natural, true-to-life, and beautifully you.

You can start by filling out the contact form at reedalyson.com/contact

. It asks for your name, email, the type of shoot you’re interested in, your preferred timeframe, and any other details you’d like to share.

Once I receive your form, I’ll reach out to confirm your session details and send over a booking link. From there, you’ll choose your date and time, review and sign your photography agreement, and submit your initial payment to officially reserve your spot.

The remaining balance is invoiced on the day of your shoot. If you ever run into issues or prefer to book directly, you can always email me at hello@reedalyson.com

— I’m happy to help get everything set up.

I completely understand that things come up, and I do my best to be flexible when possible. Rescheduling depends on the type and location of your session.

If your session is booked at a studio, we’ll follow that studio’s policy:

• 7 or more days’ notice: You’re welcome to reschedule your session (no refund).

• Less than 7 days’ notice: Unfortunately, no refund or reschedule is available.

If you can’t make it, you’re always welcome to find someone to take your spot — in that case, the reschedule fee will be waived. If we need to move your session and the original studio isn’t available on the new date, you’ll be responsible for the cost of reserving a new studio space.

For non-studio sessions (like outdoor or on-location shoots), I can usually offer more flexibility. Just reach out as soon as possible so we can make adjustments if needed.

I’ll always do my best to make the process easy and stress-free. Communication is key, so please keep me in the loop if anything changes.

I accept payment via cash, check, credit card, Venmo, CashApp, or bank transfer. Please note that credit card payments include a 3% processing fee. All payment details and links will be included in your invoice for easy checkout.

Working with returning clients truly means so much to me. As a thank you for your continued support, clients who leave a Google review will receive 10% off their next session.

Simply mention it when booking, and I’ll apply your discount.

Absolutely! I like to show you images from the back of my camera throughout the shoot so you can see how things are looking and feel confident every step of the way.

For some sessions — like actor headshots, photobooths, commercial work, or interiors — I shoot tethered (meaning the images appear live on a laptop or monitor). That way, you can get a clear view of what I’m capturing in real time and we can make any quick adjustments together.

Whether I’m shooting tethered or not, my goal is to make sure you feel comfortable, involved, and excited about what we’re creating.

Turnaround time varies depending on the type of session — anywhere from about one week for smaller shoots to up to eight weeks for weddings or large events.

You’ll see your specific delivery timeline outlined in your booking link and session agreement, so you’ll always know what to expect. I do my best to deliver your gallery as quickly as possible while giving each session the care and attention it deserves.

Final images delivered through your download gallery will not have a watermark — your package includes full-resolution downloads of your edited photos, ready to use and share.

Proof galleries do include a temporary watermark during the selection process, and some event photography packages may include watermarked images depending on usage and delivery type.

Everything will be clearly outlined in your session details, so you’ll always know exactly what’s included.

Yes, absolutely — you’re welcome to bring one guest for support!

I just ask that they let us stay focused during the shoot so you can get the most out of your session. (No pets in the studio, please.)

Absolutely! I love seeing behind-the-scenes moments — just make sure not to share unedited proofs. If you post, please tag @reedalysonphoto or @headshotsbyreed so I can share the love!

You absolutely do not have to, but it’s always appreciated! Tagging @reedalysonphoto and @headshotsbyreed helps me grow my small business and connect with more amazing clients like you.

Session pricing varies depending on the type of shoot and what’s included.

• Headshots — starting at $250 (for detailed package options, visit Headshots by Reed)

• Portrait Sessions — starting at $450

• Mini Sessions — starting at $300

• Weddings — starting at $3,250

Each session is customized to fit your vision and needs, and I’m always happy to help you find the right option for your goals and budget.

I don’t release unedited or RAW images, since editing is a big part of my creative process and how I ensure your final photos look their absolute best.

For headshot sessions, you’ll receive a proof gallery to choose your favorites from. Proofs are watermarked and can’t be downloaded, but once your final selections are edited, you’ll receive a download gallery of high-resolution, unwatermarked images.

For other session types, I carefully curate and deliver the best final images — all fully edited and ready to download, share, and print.

Yes! Your final gallery includes high-resolution downloads, so you’re welcome to print and share your images however you’d like.

That said, I highly recommend ordering prints directly through your online gallery — this ensures the best possible color accuracy, sharpness, and overall quality. Everything is printed through a professional lab that I trust, so your photos will look exactly as they’re meant to.

Or, if you prefer to print locally, I recommend Pro Photo Supply in Portland

.

Your final images are delivered through an online gallery hosted on my website, where you can easily view, download, and share your photos. You’ll also have the option to order professional-quality prints directly through the gallery for the best color and finish.

Your gallery will remain live and accessible for one year from the date of delivery, so you’ll have plenty of time to download and order your favorites. You’ll receive an email with your gallery link and instructions as soon as your photos are ready.