- Jeremy Folmer offers premium model headshot photography in NYC with 20+ years of experience
- Conveniently located in Manhattan’s Lower East Side, serving all NYC boroughs and beyond
- Combines technical photography expertise with performing arts background for authentic captures
- Customized sessions addressing specific modeling industry requirements
- Flexible scheduling and various package options to suit various stages of modeling career
Introduction to Model Headshots in NYC
Hey there! I’m Jeremy Folmer, and I’ve been shooting model headshots here in New York City for over two decades now. I started this journey back in 2000 and let me tell you—this city’s modeling scene is as competitive as ever. Your headshot? It’s not just a picture; it’s your ticket to getting noticed. Check out my NYC headshot photography portfolio.
NYC is the epicenter of the modeling world, with thousands of aspiring and professional models competing for the attention of top agencies and clients. The right photography can make all the difference between getting noticed or blending into the crowd. That’s why so many models trust experienced photographers who know exactly how to capture their best look and understand the unique demands of this industry.
I’ve worked with every type of model—commercial, editorial, runway, fitness, and more. Each niche demands a unique approach to headshots, and that’s where my years behind the camera make a difference. Having been in the industry since 2000, I’ve seen trends evolve, but the fundamental elements of a standout model headshot remain consistent: authenticity, technical precision, and that extra spark that makes your modeling portfolio stand out and makes agencies take notice.
What makes NYC such an unique place for model photography? It’s the energy, the diversity, and the endless creative possibilities. From sleek studio shots to the gritty urban textures, this city offers the perfect backdrop for creating photography that highlight your natural beauty, unique presence and grabs the attention of agencies.
Why Jeremy Folmer is New York City‘s Premier Model Headshot Photographer
There are a lot of headshot photographers in NYC, so what makes me different? My background is what gives me a unique edge—I’ve been a working actor in the city since the ’90s which means I know firsthand what it’s like to be in front of the camera. I understand exactly what agencies and casting directors are looking for, and I use that insight to help my clients bring out their most marketable looks. Knowing both sides of the industry makes a huge difference in how I direct and capture each shot.
My studio, located in the heart of the iconic Lower East Side of Manhattan, is designed specifically for headshot photography. It’s also conveniently accessible for clients coming from Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, and New Jersey. With a variety of lighting setups and backgrounds, I can easily shift from studio lighting to natural lighting to maximize the range of images in your modeling portfolio.
I believe in a very collaborative approach to each photo session. My goal is to create a relaxed, comfortable environment where you feel confident and at ease allowing you to bring your best in every session. Many clients express that they’ve never felt more natural and relaxed in front of the camera. I’ve developed techniques to help models feel at ease and bring out their best. This translates to a more natural, engaging image that grabs the attention of agencies and casting directors. Never rushing through a session and offering guidance along the way will ensure we capture exactly what agencies and casting directors are looking for.
Another thing that sets my work apart is my technical expertise with lighting. I use carefully modified lighting setups incorporating continuous daylight balanced Kino Flo as well as soft boxes and natural light to create dynamic, images while keeping skin texture natural and polished. Every detail matters, and I make sure your headshots have that high-end, professional quality that stands out in the competitive NYC modeling scene.
The Art Behind Perfect Model Headshots
Creating headshots that truly grab attention is both an art and a science. Did you know that people form lasting impressions about competence and likability within just 100 milliseconds of seeing a headshot? That’s faster than you can snap your fingers! That’s why I take a meticulous approach to every detail—posing, lighting, and expression—all working together to make sure your headshot leaves a powerful impact.
Great model headshots strike a balance between marketability and individuality. Agencies and casting directors are looking for technical perfection, but they also want to see you—your unique presence, your essence. That’s why I tailor every session to fit your brand within the current industry trends. Before i even pick up the camera, I take the time to understand what makes you stand out and how to showcase that authentically in your headshots.
Expression is everything. It can make or break your headshot. The right micro-expressions can communicate confidence, approachability, or intensity—whatever best aligns with your modeling goals. My experience as an actor gives me an edge in guiding you through these subtle emotional cues, ensuring your photos convey exactly what agencies and clients are looking for.
Lighting setups play another crucial element in a photo session. For an editorial look, I love using golden-hour natural light, while commercial modeling often calls for clean, controlled studio setups. Every lighting choice I make is intentional, designed to highlight your best features in the most flattering way.
Even color theory plays a crucial role in my process. During a pre-shoot consultation, I will suggest wardrobe options that not only photograph well but also complement your skin tone and enhance your natural look. From textures to color, every detail is considered so that nothing distracts from your face—where all the focus should be.
When you step in front of my camera, you’re not just getting a headshot—you’re getting a strategically crafted image that opens doors in this competitive industry.
Types of Model Headshots and Their Purposes
Not all model headshots serve the same purpose. Understanding the differences can help you build a more effective brand portfolio tailored to your specific marketing goals. Whether you’re targeting commercial print, high-fashion editorials, or niche markets, having the right headshots in your arsenal is essential. Here’s a breakdown of the key types I specialize in:
Commercial Headshots: Approachable & Marketable
These are your go-to shots for commercial print, advertisements, and catalogs. They need to convey warmth, relatability, and a strong connection with the viewer. Think bright, even lighting, with clean backgrounds as well as an environmental backgrounds, and a natural, inviting expression.
When I shoot commercial headshots, my focus is on highlighting your most marketable traits—whether that’s an engaging smile, expressive eyes, or a friendly, approachable presence. These images should convey reliability and relatability helping clients see you as someone they’d trust to represent their brand.
Editorial Headshots: Dramatic & Striking
For models pursuing high fashion and editorial work, your headshots are all about storytelling, invoking edgy and artistic expression. These images often feature bold lighting, striking angles, and intense expressions.
In shooting editorial headshots, I use dynamic lighting techniques to sculpt your features and create a mood that aligns with the type of work you’re aiming for. Whether it’s a raw, moody black-and-white shot or a high-contrast, avant-garde look, these images showcase your ability to transform in front of the camera and bring a specific concept to life.
Composite Card Headshots: First Impressions Matter
Your comp card (or composite card) is your modeling business card—it’s what agencies and clients see first. These images need to be impactful, versatile, and polished.
When creating a comp card headshot, I focus on capturing a strong, eye-catching image as it will appear on the front of your card. Additionally, I will create 3-5 images to be positioned on the back of your card showcasing your versatility as a lifestyle model (full body shots, niche specific looks). Capturing authentic, striking image that represents you at your absolute best is my aim. We will work together to create the looks that are most marketable for you and define your brand. Let’s create a portfolio that sets you apart.
Specialty Niche Headshots: Tailored for your Market
If you’re pursuing a specific modeling niche—fitness, plus-size, beauty, lifestyle—your headshots should reflect that. Each industry has its own expectations, and I adjust everything from posing to lighting to match.
For fitness models, I emphasize strength, energy, and muscle definition through lighting and movement-based posing. For plus-size or curve models, I focus on confidence, body positivity, and flattering angles. Every detail is customized to ensure your headshots resonate with the right audience.
The Jeremy Folmer Photography Experience
When you book a session with me, you’re not just getting good photographs—you’re getting a bespoke experience designed to showcase your best self. From start to finish, I work closely with you to ensure that every shot reflects your unique look, personality, and career aspirations. Here’s what you can expect when we work together:
Before your session, we’ll discuss your goals in depth: Who is your target audience? What is your personal brand? Are you looking to get signed with a top agency? Are you expanding into a new market? Refreshing your portfolio with dynamic new shots? I’ll guide you through selecting the right wardrobe, refining your expressions, and highlighting the angles that work best for your face shape and brand.
On the day of your shoot, expect a comfortable, collaborative, and high-energy session. My shooting style is a mix of technical precision and spontaneity—I’ll provide direction on movement, posing, and real expressions while also encouraging natural moments to shine through. My goal is to create an engaging and versatile modeling portfolio that captures your unique essence and gives agencies exactly what they’re looking for.
Once we’ve captured a variety of stunning shots, I’ll meticulously enhance each digital image—refining details such as color correction, contrast and tonality while maintaining a natural, authentic look. When your images are ready for viewing, you’ll receive access to a private online gallery, where you can download your high-quality photos in multiple formats, perfect for comp cards, digital submissions, and social media. These are all great assets for a great modeling portfolio.
My approach to editing your final choices is all about enhancement rather than heavy retouching—I want you to look like yourself at your absolute best.
Technical Excellence in Model Photography
The difference between a good headshot and great professional headshots often comes down to subtle technical details—things you might not consciously notice, but instinctively feel. My approach to photography is a blend of technical precision and artistic intuition, ensuring that every image not only meets industry standards but also reflects your unique presence.
In my studio, I use Kino Flo continuous lighting systems, which provide consistent, flattering illumination for every skin tone. These lights are carefully modified with diffusion materials, creating depth and dimension while maintaining the natural texture of the skin. This ensures a polished yet organic look—never over-processed, always authentic.
For outdoor shoots, I leverage New York City’s architectural landscapes as dynamic backdrops. I experiment using natural light and reflectors to sculpt and enhance your features. This technique allows us to achieve the best of both worlds—the authenticity of natural settings with the control and refinement of a studio environment.
Editing an image is where precision meets restraint. My retouching philosophy is simple: enhance, don’t alter. I start with global adjustments for exposure, contrast, and tonality, followed by targeted refinements to minimize distractions while keeping skin texture intact. Skin smoothing is balanced with texture preservation, avoiding the unnatural “plastic” effect that can diminish the credibility of your images. Agencies and casting directors expect recognizable models—anything overly edited can work against you when you show up for castings.
At the core of my process is a commitment to delivering images that feel both natural and striking, giving you a headshot that works—one that opens doors, grabs attention, and sets you apart in the industry.
Preparing for Your Model Headshot Session
A successful headshot session starts long before you step in front of the camera. Proper preparation can elevate your images, ensuring they align with industry expectations and authentically represent your brand. Here’s how to make the most of your session:
Wardrobe Selection
Bringing 6-8 outfit options (more is best) will allow for variety in your portfolio. Choose pieces that:
- Compliment your skin tone and eye color
- Incorporate texture for added depth
- Industry-specific attire: reflect your modeling niche (lifestyle, fitness, beauty, formal)
- Offer varied necklines to flatter different angles (V-necks are universally flattering)
Avoid logos, busy patterns, and trendy styles that will quickly date your headshots. The focus should be on you, not your clothes—stick to timeless, simple pieces that enhance rather than overshadow your features.
Grooming and Preparation
- Drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your session
- Moisturize skin for a healthy, natural glow
- Try to get a full night’s sleep—tired energy can’t be retouched
- Men: Shave or trim facial hair the morning of the shoot (if you plan on shaving in the middle of the session, please bring everything you will need to make that happen)
- Women: Arrive with clean, styled hair and no makeup (unless you prefer to do your own)
For women hiring my makeup artist, Ann Hamilton, I suggest coming with a clean moisturized face and hair styled audition ready. Ann understands how to create looks that photograph well under various lighting conditions. If you have certain makeup products that you can’t live without, bring them. Ann may or may not incorporate them into the makeup she will be using for your session.
If you prefer to do your own makeup, please arrive camera ready. You can touch up while you are here. Remember, keep it simple: clean and natural is preferred. Bring along power as sometime shiny skin can be distracting in headshots.
Mental Preparation
- Gather inspiration: Collect reference images that resonate with your vision
- Stay open and flexible: Come with a positive attitude and willingness to try different approaches and direction
- Bring your personality: Authenticity is golden. The best headshots reveal real moments
Remember the most successful sessions happen when models come physically prepared but mentally relaxed. Tension is visible in your face and posture, so think of this as a collaborative creative process rather than a high-pressure evaluation.
By following these guidelines, you’ll walk into the session with confidence, allowing us to create images that will capture your unique essence and elevate your portfolio.
FAQs About Model Headshots in NYC
How often should I update my modeling headshots?
Ideally, you should update your headshots every 6-12 months or anytime you undergo a significant change in your appearance—whether it’s a new hairstyle, a noticeable weight change, or any transformation that alters your look. The modeling industry evolves rapidly, and maintaining an up-to-date portfolio demonstrates professionalism, adaptability, and commitment to your career.
Differences between modeling headshots and acting headshots?
While both modeling and acting headshots serve as professional calling cards, they have distinct purposes and stylistic differences tailored to their respective industries.
Modeling headshots are primarily used for agencies and clients in the fashion, commercial and print industries. They showcase a model’s look, versatility and marketability for various types or work including high fashion and lifestyle campaigns in magazines and print. Modeling headshots are typically framed wider (typically ¾ length and full body) to highlight body proportions and posture.
Acting headshots are created for agents, casting directors, directors and producers who like to see an emotional range and unique personality to assess their suitability for specific roles. These headshots are often tightly cropped to keep the attention on the actors eyes and strong emotional connection. A well-crafted theatrical headshot tells a story, often conveying a serious, dramatic expression capturing authentic emotion.
How many final images will I receive from a session?
My Standard Package includes an online gallery of 300-400 images as well as three final retouched images. Additional retouching is $45 per image.
Do I need to bring my own makeup artist or stylist?
The short answer is: No. I have been working with my wife Ann Hamilton since the inception of Jeremy Folmer Photography. She provides clean, fresh professional makeup for all my clients. She knows what works for my lighting setups. You are welcome to do your own makeup (or have it done for you by an outside professional) however, I cannot guarantee the work done by outside artists that you choose to hire.
How long does a typical model headshot photo shoot take?
Standard sessions run a minimum of 3hours and Basic Sessions about 2 hours. This allows time for multiple outfit changes, lighting setups, and both studio and location settings if desired. We won’t rush the process. Capturing the perfect images in more important to me than keeping an eye on the clock.
What file formats will I receive, and will I have printing rights?
You’ll receive high-resolution downloadable JPG. All packages include personal printing rights, allowing you to use the images for self-promotion, your portfolio, and agency submissions.
How do I book a session with Jeremy Folmer?
Contact me through my website or call the studio directly to discuss your needs and check availability. I typically book 2-3 weeks in advance, though I can sometimes accommodate rush requests for models with immediate casting opportunities.
Can you help me understand which headshots to use for different purposes?
Absolutely! As part all packages, I include guidance on which headshots will work best for different purposes, from agency submissions, specific casting types as well as social media posts. My experience on both sides of the industry gives me valuable insight into what works where. I am also very knowledgeable about how the industry operates and am more than happy to help you in any way that I can.
Contact Jeremy Folmer today to elevate your modeling career with headshots that capture your unique potential and meet the exacting standards of New York City’s competitive modeling industry.