Before I opened my own studio, I was a staff photographer for M Magazine. My job was to create portraits that brought each story to life: from professional athletes and models to everyday people like myself.
And do you want to know what the common denominator was?
Everyone was nervous to be in front of the camera.
It didn’t matter if you were a famous Bucks player or a hardworking farmer — everyone shared the same vulnerable feelings about being seen.
Fast forward to 2015. I had just opened my own studio and was promoting my personal project, The Milwaukee Beard Book. That’s when M Magazine called to feature me on their cover.
Suddenly, I was the one in front of the camera.
What would I wear? How should I do my makeup? What if I didn’t like how I looked in the photo?
For the first time, I truly understood the mix of excitement and anxiety that my clients feel.
That experience changed everything.
It inspired me to design each session at The Refinery Photo Studio around comfort, trust, and genuine connection. I want every client to feel seen, not just photographed.
Read on to discover what a Headshot Experience at The Refinery feels like, and how we create portraits that truly reflect you.
...I had such a great session with Jessica! I was looking to get headshots done to update my LinkdIn profile and Jessica helped me do just that! I was a little nervous going into my session but Jessica made me feel right at home with the music snacks and refreshments! Thank you Jessica!" - Brayden
Unlike a full-body portrait, a headshot is specifically focused on capturing your face and upper body, so it's a more intimate and focused representation of you. It's all about making sure that your expression, posture, and clothing are on point. It's like a little snapshot of your personal brand.
If you are in need of full body imagery, or need more images for a fuller session, please check out our Branding Packages.
Put your best face forward!
This package is offered during the hours of 11am-1pm, Tuesday through Friday, and includes your choice of white or gray backdrop.
If you want to update your LinkedIn profile photo, or need a headshot for your company, this is the best package for you!
This Package Includes:
Optional Add Ons
Headshots with a Style Switch-Up for Maximum Versatility!
Whether you want a more professional look for LinkedIn or a more casual vibe for social media, we've got you covered.
This package includes:
Optional Add Ons
Hair and Makeup Services added to any Session, regardless of gender: $250 person. Half day and full day rates available for group sessions.
Hair extension usage for photos: $100
Includes: premium hair extensions/ hair pieces to be utilized during your photoshoot and to be returned to the stylist by the end of shooting. Extensions available for purchase as well. Contact for pricing as it varies from style to length.
Extra Wardrobe Time: Extra 30 mins for additional outfits $75
Social Media Kit $50
Your final images delivered in platform-ready sizes for LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook sent as a separate, curated download.
Insert a Digital Backdrop (city, office ambiance, etc) $75
Rush Delivery $100
Final delivery in 24 Hours
In addition to the classic Black, White and Gray backgrounds, we also have a variety of Colors! Choose from warm neutrals or a pop of color. We are happy to suggest background colors based on the clothing that you bring to the shoot.
Have a specific color in mind? Just ask! We may be able to purchase a color for your shoot.