That’s the whole point. The goal is never to make you look like someone else — it’s to capture the best, most confident version of you. Karen uses natural retouching that polishes without overdoing it, so when you show up to a date, you look exactly like your photos. No awkward surprises. Just you, looking great.

Headshots say “hire me.” Dating photos say “meet me.” They need to feel warm, personal and inviting. Karen incorporates storytelling — your interests, your personality, props, outdoor settings — to create images that give someone a real sense of who you are before you even say hello. That’s what gets more matches and better conversations.

You’re in good company — most people who book a dating session say exactly that. Karen is an expert expression and posing coach who guides you through everything: where to look, what to do with your hands, how to relax your face, how to get a natural smile. You don’t need to know how to pose. That’s her job.

Check out the reviews — you’ll see how many people felt just like you before their session. Then read Karen’s guides: Posing Guide  ·  Smile That Sells  ·  How to Look Confident  ·  How to Look Approachable

Yes — and this is one of the most valuable parts of the session. After the shoot Karen spends up to an hour with you reviewing your images and helping you select the photos most likely to attract the right match. Most people gravitate toward the photos they personally like best, which are not always the ones that perform best online.

Karen has a woman’s eye for what works — and men in particular find that perspective invaluable. She knows which expressions read as warm and approachable, which angles are most flattering, and which images will make someone stop scrolling and want to know more.

Yes — and outdoor sessions are some of the most popular for dating photography. Karen brings professional studio lighting outdoors so you get the best of both worlds: a natural, relaxed setting with flattering, controlled light. Studio sessions are also available if you prefer a more polished look. Read more about outdoor photography sessions.

Karen offers custom virtual background composites as an add-on — and they are some of the most striking and memorable dating photos she creates. A pilot dressed in his flight gear with his own plane on the tarmac behind him. A surfer placed on the beach without a location fee. A musician on a stage. Whatever tells your story.

These images stop the scroll because they look completely real and completely personal — yet they would be impossible or impractical to shoot on location. Karen photographs you in the studio, then composites in a custom background that brings your personality to life. An add-on fee applies. Call Karen at (818) 991-7787 to discuss your vision.

See more: Virtual Background Headshots  ·  Professional Pictures Near Me  ·  Professional Headshot Backgrounds

Depending on the package you choose, you will receive 2, 3 or 5 fully retouched photos including both print and web size files. Photos are delivered via WeTransfer link sent to your email within 2–3 business days after retouching is complete. The total session time is approximately 1.5 hours including your shoot, outfit changes and professionally guided image selection.

Arrive looking the way you normally would for a great first date — polished and natural. Karen adds digital makeup and digital eyelashes during retouching, so you don’t need a full glam look for the shoot. Just come as your best everyday self. Read Karen’s guide: Makeup for Photos — Look Picture Perfect.

Wear something that reflects who you are and how you want to be seen. Solid colors photograph best — while bright whites are fine, dark solid colors are more slenderizing and tend to look great on camera.

One pro tip Karen shares with every client: consider wearing red — or incorporating a red background or prop. Red is the stop-scroll color. It catches the eye instantly when someone is swiping through profiles. A red shirt, a red wall, a bold red accessory — it creates instant visual impact. Karen factors this into your wardrobe consultation before the shoot.

Bring 2–3 outfit options. For more guidance visit our What to Wear page and Best Colors for Photos.

Sessions are non-refundable. We ask for 48 hours notice to reschedule without a fee. All major credit cards are accepted at the time of booking.