Getting professional headshots done can be an important part of building your personal brand, whether for a LinkedIn profile, company website bio, or actor’s portfolio. With so many photography studios to choose from, one option you may be considering is getting headshots done at JCPenney. JCPenney Portrait Studios are located inside JCPenney department stores across the country and offer basic portrait photography services at competitive prices. But are they the right choice for professional headshots? Here’s a look at what you can expect from getting headshots at JCPenney.
What does JCPenney offer for headshots?
JCPenney Portrait Studios offer a basic headshot package that includes one outfit, multiple poses, and options for different backgrounds. You’ll work with one of their photographers in an on-site studio to capture different shots. The JCPenney headshot session typically takes about 60-90 minutes. You can purchase digital files or prints after your session. Some key things to know about JCPenney headshots:
- Cost – A basic headshot session starts around $30.
- Digital file sizes – You can purchase high-res digital files up to 3000×4000 pixels.
- Number of looks – The standard headshot package includes one outfit. You can pay extra to include a second outfit.
- Backgrounds – Standard backdrops are included, or you can pay extra for custom backgrounds.
- Lighting – Standard studio lighting is used.
- Retouching – Basic retouching to adjust lighting, color, and remove blemishes is included.
So in summary, you get professional lighting, backdrop options, posing guidance from the photographer, digital images, and some basic retouching. There are add-ons available for more outfit changes, custom backgrounds, additional retouching services, and more.
Benefits of using JCPenney for headshots
Here are some of the benefits that JCPenney Portrait Studios offer for headshots:
Affordable prices
One of the main advantages of using JCPenney is the affordable cost. A basic headshot session starts around $30, which is very budget-friendly compared to higher-end studios that charge hundreds of dollars or more. The affordable prices make professional headshots accessible for everyday individuals.
Convenient locations
With over 800 portrait studio locations inside JCPenney stores nationwide, you can easily find a JCPenney Portrait Studio near you to get headshots done. The in-store locations mean you don’t have to go to a dedicated photography studio.
Fast turnaround
Since headshot sessions take about an hour or less, you can typically get your finished photos back very quickly. Digital files allow for instant access. This allows you to get headshots you need in a time crunch.
Good for simple headshot needs
For basic headshots on a solid background with standard studio lighting, JCPenney may meet your needs. The photos can work well for general corporate bios, social media profiles, and applications.
Downsides of using JCPenney for headshots
However, there are some downsides to using JCPenney Portrait Studios for professional headshots to be aware of:
Lack of style options
For actors, models, and creative fields, JCPenney’s offerings may be too limiting. With standard backdrops and lighting, it’s hard to create a unique personal style. There are few options for urban settings, nature backdrops, or edgy lighting.
Mixed photographer skill
Photographers are JCPenney employees, not necessarily professional photographers. Their skills can vary greatly. You may or may not get an experienced photographer. More advanced posing and lighting skills may be lacking.
Rushed sessions
With sessions under 90 minutes, the photographer may feel rushed trying to capture different looks and poses. Higher-end studios will devote more time.
Fewer retouching options
While retouching is included, JCPenney only offers basic adjustments. For removing wrinkles, whitening teeth, or more advanced retouching, you need to look elsewhere.
Subpar print quality
While digital files should be sufficient, if you order standard prints through JCPenney the paper and print quality is lower than professional photography studios. The prints may not look as sharp for your portfolio.
Should you use JCPenney for professional headshots?
Whether or not JCPenney Portrait Studios are the right choice for your headshot needs depends on your specific situation and priorities:
JCPenney headshots could be good if:
- You have a limited budget
- You need basic headshots quickly
- A simple solid background is acceptable
- You only need digital files to share online
- You need headshots for general corporate or business use
Avoid JCPenney headshots if:
- You want a unique personal style/branding
- A creative, editorial look is needed
- You want locations beyond a studio backdrop
- High-end retouching is required
- You plan to print and showcase photos
For actors, models, LinkedIn influencers, and public figures who want a personal, high-quality look, a boutique studio that specializes in headshots is often a better option than JCPenney. But for basic headshots on a budget, JCPenney can certainly get the job done.
Headshot tips for getting the most out of JCPenney
If you do plan to use JCPenney Portrait Studios for headshots, here are some tips to get the best results:
Come camera ready
Have your hair and makeup professionally done prior to the shoot to look your best. For men, get a fresh haircut and shave.
Bring multiple outfits
Even if you only paid for one look, bring extra outfits to give the photographer options to work with.
Add extra retouching
Opt to pay for more intensive retouching to look your most polished. Whitening teeth makes a big difference.
Supplement with your own photos
Consider having the photographer take some standard shots, then switch to having a friend photograph you using your own props and backgrounds.
Scout background options beforehand
Check out background options available at your local JCPenney studio to select your favorite solid color backdrop.
Get the largest digital files possible
Pay extra to get the largest high-res digital files, even if you don’t need them now. This gives you flexibility to crop and use the photos for future professional needs.
Candid poses can look more natural
Have the photographer take some posed shots, but also get candid shots of you smiling naturally. Avoid a stiff posed look.
Purchase studio lighting extras
Consider paying for additional lighting options to better shape and define facial features. Basic lighting can look flat.
Sample headshots from JCPenney
Here are some examples of professional headshots taken at JCPenney Portrait Studios:
Tips for choosing the best photos
When selecting your final headshots from your JCPenney session, look for these qualities:
– Sharp focus on your face
– Good lighting centred on your face
– Nice color balance – not too warm or cool
– Eyes look bright and engaged
– Facial expression suits your brand
– Minimal awkward shadows or harsh lines
– Teeth look natural, not overwhitened
– Background is clean and undistracting
Avoid photos where the pose looks awkward, lighting is unflattering, eyes look droopy, or teeth are too whitened and fake looking. Choose warm, friendly expressions that look like the real you.
How much do headshots cost at JCPenney?
Headshot prices at JCPenney Portrait Studios typically start around $30 for a basic digital or print package. Here is an overview of their pricing:
Headshot Package | Typical Cost |
---|---|
Basic digital package with 1 outfit | $30-50 |
Standard print package with 1 outfit | $40-75 |
Premium digital package with 2 outfits | $80-120 |
Ultimate print package with 2 outfits | $125-200 |
Extra add-ons like additional outfits, custom backgrounds,enhanced lighting, more editing, and specialty prints can raise the costs closer to $300-500. The photographers at JCPenney have some leeway to adjust pricing and run specials. But in general you can expect to spend around $30-50 for simple digital headshots and $75-200 if you want higher-end offerings. Compared to boutique studios that charge $400+, JCPenney represents significant savings.
Headshot pricing at other studios
To give you a sense of pricing at other headshot studios, here is an overview:
Studio | Typical Price Range |
---|---|
JCPenney Portrait Studios | $30-200 |
Sears Portrait Studio | $40-150 |
Walmart Portrait Studio | $25-100 |
National Chain Photography Studio (Lifetouch, Picture People, etc) | $150-300 |
Independent Local Photography Studio | $200-500 |
Higher-End Boutique Photography Studio | $400-1,000+ |
So you can see that JCPenney falls on the lower end of the pricing spectrum along with mass retailers like Sears and Walmart. Local independent studios will give you more custom options for $200-500. And boutique “celebrity” photographers can charge upwards of $1,000 per session.
Should you hire a professional photographer instead?
The photographers working at JCPenney Portrait Studios have basic photography training and experience. However, they likely don’t have the specialized skills, artistry, and experience of a true professional headshot photographer. Here are some benefits you may get by hiring a pro photographer instead:
Wider range of settings and backdrops
A professional photographer will work with you at their studio and off-site to capture environmental portraits at your office, outdoors, or in urban settings that better reflect your brand.
Advanced photographic techniques
A pro photographer will have deep expertise in posed portraits, directing subjects, flattering lighting, and achieving authentic expressions. They may use pro lighting gear and have skills like shooting in RAW format.
Artistic perspective
A professional photographer will collaborate with you to understand your goals and develop an artistic vision for your headshots. They will make intentional choices to craft an impactful personal brand.
Industry connections
Experienced headshot photographers develop relationships with makeup artists, stylists, and retouching pros to create a refined end-to-end experience.
More personalized service and time
A pro photographer may devote several hours to your session and provide a personally tailored experience.
The right photographer can truly elevate your headshots. But you’ll need to budget $400-1,000+ for their services. Weigh the value of professional expertise compared to the affordability of JCPenney.
Conclusion
JCPenney Portrait Studios offer a budget-friendly option for basic headshots that may meet some people’s needs, especially for general corporate or web use. However, hiring a professional photographer is wise for those wanting a personalized, premium, high-quality experience to take their personal brand to the next level. Consider how you will use your headshots, your budget, and your brand goals to decide if JCPenney is the right fit. With realistic expectations of the pros and cons, they provide a cost-effective route for simple headshot needs.