Headshots For Creatives
FEATURED IN JUST ADD MILK'S 'TOP TEN HEADSHOT PHOTOGRAPHERS" LIST 2023 & 2024 - VOTED FOR BY OVER 2000 ACTORS.
In pursuit of portraits
Having your photo taken can feel daunting. I am here to reassure you that there is nothing more important to me when taking photographs than making sure you feel safe, happy and comfortable in your own skin. Before I even attempt to lift a camera to your face we will start the shoot with a sit down and a chat about what you desire from your images. I believe getting to know you is just as important as knowing how to take the perfect photograph; I pride myself on taking pictures that look and feel like the real you. All chosen images are then edited and retouched by me personally.
My Central London Studio is a safe and welcoming environment and I pride myself on my desire to collaborate creatively with each of you. Skin that looks like skin. Portraits for the multi-hyphenate; the 'Slash Artist'. Each shoot is tailored to the individual and can be shot in my studio or on location.
Pricing & Packages
The Classic
Portrait photography for creatives
1.5 hours
3-4 hair, clothing & backdrop changes
Incl. 3 High-Resolution Images
Central London Studio
£225
The Editorial
Portfolio with a mix of classic Portraiture and Editorial images
2 hours
Multiple hair, clothing, makeup & backdrop changes
Incl. 5 High-Resolution Images
Central London Studio
£275
The Bold
Full Portrait and Editorial Session
3 hours
Multiple hair, clothing, makeup and backdrop changes incl. full length setups
Incl. 8 High Resolution Images
Central London Studio
£325
and more
For Junior headshots, please click the link below. I shoot indoor and outdoor for fashion, fitness and editorial - please get in touch for a quote. If you are in need of a website update that requires full body or in-action shots of you teaching or working, pop me a message and we can discuss your needs, inside or outside the studio. Previous clients include Yoga Teachers, Dancers, Magicians, Breathwork Instructors, Physiotherapists and PT's. Feel free to get in touch using the form on this website or pop an email to hello@melaniegailphotography.com and we can discuss your requirements.
FAQ
Where are you based?
My studio can be found at The Biscuit Factory, London. Nearest station is Bermondsey on the Jubilee Line.
How do I book a shoot with you?
Please click on the session you would like to book for Live Studio Availability, or feel free to use the Contact page on this website for all booking enquiries. I will send over my next available dates and we can go from there. If you have a specific date in mind, let me know and I will try my best to make it happen.
Do you offer a student discount?
Yes I do. Students get £25 off The Quickie, The Classic and The Editorial sessions with me. I would also recommend following me on Instagram, as from time to time I post on stories with special deals on last-minute availability. In addition, I now offer a Pay What You Can session for those struggling with the Cost Of Living each month. To sign up to be notified, please pop me an email using the Contact page above with PWYC in the subject line.
How long before I get my gallery of images from the shoot?
You will receive your gallery of images within 48 hours of the shoot, usually the same evening.
My shoot includes three high-resolution retouches. Can I choose more?
Absolutely. Extra high-resolution, fully retouched images for all sessions are priced at £25 each.
When will I receive my edited photos?
Once you have chosen your images and sent them to me, retouches will be ready for download within 5-10 working days.
Can I have them ASAP?
You can. I offer an Express Turnaround service for £40 where you will receive your final edits within 48 hours. Please request this at the time of booking.
Why 'Melanie Gail Photography'? Isn't your name Melanie Bright?
It is. Gail is my middle name. Yes, like in Coronation Street. Gail means 'Father's Joy' and if it wasn't for my wonderful Dad being the target of my camera thievery way back when, I might not be doing this now.
Melanie Bright is both my name by birth and my stage name. It feels good to let that remain synonymous with my acting work.
What should I bring?
This all depends on what we decide to go for with the shoot. I am a big fan of loose shirts, muted/deep block colours and patterns, as they always make an image stand out. For portraits, interesting necklines in simple, classic colours often work well. We'll get your clothing options out on the rail at the start and pick backgrounds accordingly. Always wear things you feel comfortable in. If we're shooting outside, I'd advise bringing a few easy-to-change-into options. There is a loo and a cafe onsite at my Central London Studio, but alas, no parking.
Can I bring my mum/my friend/my pet with me on a studio shoot?
You can... but I'd prefer if they stayed home. More often than not they are likely to create a distraction for you which in turn will limit our shooting time because you're worrying about what Mumsie thinks or if Rover needs a poo. The exception being if the shoot includes Mumsie and Rover (see Melanie Gail Moments) Under no circumstances can you EVER bring a pet spider.
I forgot I have the: dentist / an audition / *insert other valid reason here*. Can I reschedule?
Of course. A non-refundable deposit of £50 is required to confirm your booking. The date is able to be rescheduled once if you let me know more than 48 hours in advance that you can no longer make the shoot. It also gives me time to cry about it. We will then reschedule for the next available date we can both do, no stress.
Is there somewhere I can do my make-up/hair/shave?
I advise arriving with your make up and hair done, however we are in England and the weather can be unpredictable! Within the studio, there is a make up station including a lit mirror, hairdryer, brushes, clips, hair styling products and a private changing area. This is for top ups and style changes throughout the session (hair up, hair down etc.) You can bring a make-up artist with you, but please bear in mind large changes in look may require extra time. For those who want to shave facial hair between shots, this is absolutely achievable in The Bold & Editorial sessions. Please bring a towel and your razor.
How much make-up is too much make-up?
I have photographed people with completely bare skin up to Drag Queen fabulousness. The answer for this really depends on what the images are for; for headshots, LESS IS MORE. I am an excellent retoucher - let me get into those pores and blend out any blemishes for you instead. If you're in any doubt, ask.
Summer Lovin'! I have been in the sun and forgot my suncream. Can you edit out my sunburn?
I will always edit out any blemishes, redness and even out skin tone for every photograph, but in order to stay true to my editing style and keep photos beautifully natural and looking like you, I would prefer we reschedule. Factor 30 as a minimum folks, protect those beautiful faces!
Is your studio accessible?
There is a lift on the Ground Floor but a few concrete steps leading up to this landing area. If you require a wheelchair ramp or assistance upon entry, please let me know at the time of booking and this can be arranged.