Jose Lara Photography · Consultation Prep
1Warm open
"Tell me about your business" — let them talk 2–3 minutes uninterrupted before anything about photos.
2Dig into the gap
"What's not working about your current photos?" The real why-now comes out here. Take notes — this feeds step 5.
3Paint the vision
Reflect back what you heard. Describe what the shoot looks like for them specifically.
4Logistics
Location, timeline, wardrobe, what's included.
5Pricing
Anchor to the outcome, not deliverables. Tie the package directly to what they said in step 2.
6Soft close
"What questions do you have for me?" Then one clear next step: book, deposit, or follow-up email.
What does your business actually do, and who's it for?
Who is your ideal client — describe them like a real person.
What makes you different from competitors in your space?
What's the current perception problem? (outdated, invisible, generic, doesn't match your quality)
Where will these photos actually live — website, LinkedIn, Google Business Profile, print, ads?
What vibe are you after: corporate/polished, approachable/warm, bold/editorial?
Any brands or people whose visual style you admire?
Any past headshots or branding photos you loved or hated — why?
Timeline — is there a launch, event, or deadline driving this?
Who else is involved in the decision (partner, spouse, marketing person)?
Budget expectations, if not already discussed.
Why you over a competitor — or an AI headshot generator?
Coaching through every shot, live tethered review (they approve images on set), consistent brand look across every platform. AI can't shoot your office, your team, or your real workspace — and clients can tell.
What does the session actually look like?
Studio in Camarillo or on-location at their business. Multiple looks and backgrounds, outfit changes, expert direction — nobody needs to know how to pose. Sessions run about an hour; branding sessions longer depending on scope.
Turnaround time?
Same-day selection gallery. Retouched finals within 48 hours.
What is included at each tier?
Headshots: $249 session, includes your first retouched image, additional images $85 each. Branding: Brand Starter $849 · Brand Builder $1,099 · Brand Premium $1,499.
How does retouching work — and how many images do I get?
They pick favorites from their private gallery; I retouch their selections (skin natural, no plastic look). Image count per tier above; more available anytime at $95.
"I hate being photographed."
8 of 10 clients say this. I coach every pose and expression — you never guess what to do. We review shots together on screen as we go, and you leave when we have images you love. Reshoot is free if you're not happy.
Log new questions after each consultation — they show up on every future prep sheet so you're never surprised twice.
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Jose Lara Photography
joselaraphotography.com · (805) 669-8062