
Headshots
How to Take Amazing Headshots
What separates a great headshot from a forgettable one — equipment, lighting, posing, and purpose from Chris McCarthy, Boston's South Shore.
Chris McCarthy
Professional Photographer, Photography Shark · November 23, 2024 · Updated March 15, 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What lens does Photography Shark use for headshots?
Chris McCarthy shoots with Sony full-frame mirrorless equipment, typically an 85mm–135mm prime lens. This focal length produces natural-looking compression and clean background separation.
What backgrounds are available at the Rockland studio?
The studio at 83 E Water Street in Rockland offers neutral gray, white, and off-white seamless backdrops. Background choice is guided by your industry and how you plan to use the images.
How is headshot lighting set up at Photography Shark?
Softboxes and reflectors are positioned to illuminate both sides of the face evenly, model facial structure, and produce flattering results across a range of skin tones — adjusted per client.
What should I wear to get the best headshot results?
Solid, neutral colors — navy, grey, black, white, or muted tones — work best. Avoid busy patterns, logos, and neon colors. Bring two or three options and Chris will advise at the session.
What does a Photography Shark headshot session cost?
Studio headshot sessions are $395 for 30 minutes with 10 fully retouched images. On-location sessions are $495. Add-ons: additional session time $150, outfit change $150, additional person $200, group shot $100. Turnaround 3-5 business days.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking a week or two in advance is typical. Saturdays and morning slots fill fastest. Contact Photography Shark at photographyshark.com to check availability.
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About the Author
Chris McCarthy
Chris McCarthy has run Photography Shark Studios in Rockland, MA for over 10 years and 500+ sessions, with executive headshot work for Rockland Trust, Clean Harbors, M&T Bank, and McCarthy Planning; founder portraits for AI startups including Lowtouch.ai; product photography for South Shore brands like Lauren's Swim; and headshots across South Shore legal, medical, financial, and academic practices. Every session is personally shot and edited by Chris on Sony mirrorless and Godox strobe systems — no assistants, no outsourcing, no batch retouching. Galleries deliver in 3–5 business days. About photographer Chris McCarthy →
Photography Shark · Boston & South Shore MA
Ready to Book a Session?
Professional headshots, senior portraits, boudoir, and model portfolios. Studio in Rockland, MA — 25 miles south of Boston. Sessions from $395.



