We Capture The REAL You!
At Vail Fucci Photography, getting headshots with accurate skin tones for BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) individuals is one of our specialties. Unfortunately, for most people of color their skin tone has been represented improperly in photos for most of their life. They look too dark, too ashy, too pale, too yellow, too orange, or too red. These common issues are due to a variety of elements that Vail has learned to control for, making it possible for her to capture photos of the REAL you! Here’s how we do it:
- Lighting: Proper lighting is essential for any headshot, but it’s particularly crucial for BIPOC individuals due to the the way the camera records digital images. Vail has studied these issues and uses a variety of lighting techniques that flatter a wide range of skin tones without washing them out or making them look too shiny. There is no one size fits all approach. Exposure is adjusted for each individual’s unique skin tone.
- Skin Tone and Color Balance: Achieving accurate skin tone representation is vital to ensure that the headshots reflect the individual’s true appearance. Through camera settings and post-processing techniques Vail and her team will capture and maintain the richness and depth of BIPOC skin tones. At the end of your session, Vail will review your images with you on her 27″ color corrected monitor. During that time she will work with you to make sure the white balance and tint are adjusted to exactly your own personal liking to ensure that your images truly reflect YOU.
Hair and Makeup: Hair textures and styles vary widely among BIPOC individuals. Vail’s hair and makeup artist, Molly, was trained to work with diverse hair and skin types. Once on set, Vail will pay tremendous attention to detail. She will make sure that every hair is exactly where it should be, wig lace edges are discretely hidden, and the exposure is perfect so that you don’t look too light or too dark.
Welcoming Atmosphere: Vail Fucci Photography is an inclusive studio that celebrates diversity. We believe that everyone — regardless of race, religion, age, gender, or sexual orientation — deserves to be treated equally and with respect. When you know you are in a safe space, you can let down your guard and be more comfortable. This results in headshots with genuine expressions and confidence.
