Paul Smith Photography

I regret choosing to go with Paul Smith photography for actor headshots. While his experience guarantees a basic level of professionalism, there are so many other highly competent and talented photographers around town who will give you more bang for your buck and time. Paul's website makes clear how little wiggle room he leaves at every stage of the process for feedback, or grace for any point of dissatisfaction. * Note: the original photo files alone are available for only a few weeks until he charges yet another high fee just to download! No reshoots. No retouches. No refunds. And I am left without access to ANY photos...even if I wanted to have just for personal use. I knew less than midway through my session that I made the wrong decision, and felt so soured and trapped by the investment I had already made. Also rushed - sandwiched between two actors also running over time. Even though I was able to get an idea of how the photos were looking midshoot, other photographers I've worked with scheduled shoots in such a way as to leave ample time and space at the end to browse through with more care… The makeup artist was friendly, but she was subbing for the one who normally works in studio and did not have the instincts nor offer the guiding presence during the shoot that I expected, given what I paid. I came hair ready, but the website says "They will help you fine-tune your hair, watch for flyaways..." - I did not experience any of that, and realized only after the shoot was over, that a simple comb through would have been well advised. *sigh* Lastly, I would have benefitted from better communication regarding the realities of timing and scheduling the shoot around natural light. It was Paul's use of natural light in the photos on his website that made me choose him in the first place...But I could already see from the screen mid-shoot that what I had hoped for and visualized was not coming through.

Paul is the best photographer I've worked with! I did three looks with him and am so happy with all the photos we took. I have never been so happy with head shots and feel like Paul really captured my spirit in each of his photos. I also had my make-up done by Adriana who was wonderful and did a great job with highlighting my features for each look. All of my family and friends love my photos as well and have been asking me who did them. Paul was very professional and made me feel very comfortable from the get-go. Whenever I need new head shots from now on Paul will be my go-to-guy. Thanks, Paul!

Paul is a great photographer and one I've been wanting to work with for many years, and in 2020 it finally happened. He worked with me to understand what it was I wanted from my headshots. I felt completely relaxed and comfortable. Loved the energy in the studio. I also felt safe and the space was clean, sanitised and we kept our distance from each other, wore masks at all times (apart from the shoot itself) I'm really looking forward to seeing the photographs. Thanks Paul ❤️ 🙏✨

Headshots have always been the time of the year that I despise because you’re always so worried about trying to make it perfect. Paul takes away all that tension with the way he approaches his work and the entire session is a breeze. He’s great with people and absolutely incredible with a camera. Highly recommend shooting here. I scheduled 1 look and a makeup artist, communicated what I wanted and they delivered.

Paul is spectacular. This was my first time ever getting professional headshots taken and I was so nervous previous to scheduling an appointment with Paul. However, every part of the process for me made me feel comfortable, taken care of, and creatively inspired! In the first part of the process, he was wonderful at communicating with me personally over email and giving me recommendations on what to wear. Later, on the day of the shoot, he made me feel GORGEOUS and like an amazing model- despite the fact that I don't tend to feel comfortable in front of a camera. Also- shout out to his in-house makeup artist Lauren, because she is also simply the greatest. I'm quite certain she is a make up wizard with how easily she incorporated the specific looks I was going for, and created such a versatility on camera. I plan on going here again and again. I highly recommend him to everyone! I got such a wonderful variety of shots that make me look fierce and fabulous.

I've never felt more comfortable or had more fun getting my headshots done. Paul's a master. Lauren was amazing with my hair and makeup as well. Such a good, relaxed time with the both of them which is what you want because then that's what comes through in your photos.

Shooting with Paul is such a pleasure! He is easy going and warm and creates an ideal environment to truly capture a person. I always feel comfortable and confident working with him. And I am always over the moon with the results. You will not regret shooting with Paul. He's really incredible.

Paul was so fun to work with and my headshots turned out more INCREDIBLE than I could have hoped for. The image quality is fantastic and they actually look like me, which I've struggled with in the past. Can't recommend him enough! And Lauren for makeup!

The entire experience with Paul was absolutely amazing. When booking my photoshoot, he was so responsive and supportive. Kristina was my makeup artist. She was so friendly and welcoming. Her ability to make you look good while still natural is outstanding. Paul was a blast! He was so fun and made me feel so comfortable. He is down to earth and incredibly personable. I also loved how he would direct you or suggest how to pose or look to get that perfect shot. His studio is clean, warm, and bright. Overall, very aesthetically appealing. And I love how he utilizes all the natural lighting available. I would highly recommend Paul (and Kristina). 10/10 for quality, professionalism, and humor.

Paul's a dream. Many photographers use online form submissions to schedule shoots, which is at once convenient and impersonal. I had several email exchanges with Paul prior to my shoot (including one that my wife had to write because I was in the hospital & would need to me reschedule at a later date. This whole process was seamless, as was finally setting up the official appointment. I should say that headshot or photo shoots of any kind make my stomach mold itself into a steel or wrought iron ball situated neatly between my throat & the lower half of me. It has been difficult for me, in the past, to get photos that (1) looked like me, (2) looked like professional photos I can use for business, & (3) gave enough variety of looks (without sacrificing quality) that didn't make me leave my photo session & immediately start making plans for my next session. With Paul, and makeup artist Lauren, I felt they were truly there to apply their phenomenal skills & talents to creating the perfect image of lil old me. Both asked about the kinds of roles I usually play and/or audition for. I expressed frustrations I've lugged about since being disappointed with previous sessions with different photographers. They were always listening when I spoke on these matters and I felt their newfound knowledge find its way into the work they were doing & making with me. There's nothing more important than being seen in a photo shoot. Paul & Lauren will do that... and damn good photos of you, too.

Paul is simply the best. I moved to Los Angeles four years ago, and have been seeing Paul every year since. Once I found him I knew that I would never go to anyone else. His ability to make you feel comfortable is incredible, and allows you to get shots that truly reflect who you are. After this years round of photos, my manger was legitimately so stoked he said, "There are just too many good shots. This is one of the best shoots I've seen. Simple, elegant, f**kin love it!" Paul is efficient, hard working, friendly, kind, and ALWAYS has a smile on his face. He plays your favorite music while you shoot, and if he knows it, he's singing it with you! Nothing is better than singing along to great music and laughing while you take your photos. Paul and makeup artist Lauren Gott are both genuinely great people, and take their time with you to get the best look and possible outcome that they can. They make sure they know the types of roles you'll be going out for, what you will look best in when you bring your selection of clothes, and wrap it all together to create an incredible shoot. And when you walk through their door for your next shoot, they always remember you and make you feel just as at home. Basically - Paul knows exactly what he's doing. He knows the perfect lighting, background, and poses AND he knows how to ask for them. With Paul you will be in great hands, and you will walk away from the shoot feeling great about yourself and your shots.

Paul's photograph of me is responsible for getting me called in for AVATAR. That about sums it up, right there. I booked it, my first principal role in a major motion picture, and Paul Smith's photo helped me get in James Cameron's door. That actually is the best thing I can tell anyone about a headshot photographer, and as for me, honestly, he could be the biggest jerk in LA, and I wouldn't really care. If he has talent and his picture and my mug get me in the freakin door, I wouldn't care if he had three heads and showed up drunk. I'm about results, plain and simple. However, he really is a pretty dadgum awesome Ozzie. He's a crackup, knows his @$&%, is very steadying, and steady REALLY works for type-A, high-strung, near-maniacal actors... like me. I just worked with him again, and I'm blown away at his skill. The only thing you need to worry about with Paul, is whether you're as good an actor as he is a photographer. I'm not kidding. Oh, and don't even blink- hire his hair and makeup genius Lauren Gott. I'm a dude and think I know everything, so I've done my own H&M for all of my career, until this session, and I've never looked that good in my life. First, she is equally insanely talented, I'm telling you, but also, she and Paul work in tandem on a lot of details, and it seems to make the process even more efficient and creative. You get two geniuses for the price of, well, two geniuses, but dude, "cheap" reads from across the room with headshots, and cheap says 'unprofessional'. Don't even think about it. NEVER scrimp on your lawyer, your accountant, or your photographer. These people are world class and well, that's what the hell we're here for, right? J.P. Pitt

This guy is the best. He is very nice and gives you tips on your makeup and helps you even if you don't pay for an makeup artist. He is genuinely kind and out of all the headshot photographers I shot with is the best. His studio is not in the best part of town but there is free parking. I recommend him to anyone.

Not to turn everything into a race issue, but AS A BLACK WOMAN...... lol finding a good photographer can be a challenge, even in 2016. When I look at most photography portfolios, they only include one person of color. The token is usually not my shade, so I can't get a feel for whether most photographers know how to properly light black skin without it being blown out or too dark. Paul is Martin Luther King's dream come to life. He can shoot everybody equally and his work is beyond amazing. I left his session with more self esteem than I've ever had in my life... he made me look that good on camera. He also recommended a makeup artist, Danielle Decker, who I used, and she was the cherry on the sundae. I did four drastically different looks... college, sexy, corporate and urban, and they all turned out equally stunning. It is not like he excelled in one area and fell flat in another. All across the board, Paul and Danielle, were ON POINT. Whatever he charges, pay it with a smile, because the quality is BEYOND worth it. You are going to get the best photos you have ever taken. He is a paragon. He's cool and funny too, but his work definitely overshadows his personality LOLOLOLOL. Kidding. I loved him. THANK YOU PAUL!!!!!!!

Working with Paul Smith on my headshots was awesome. And I hate headshot sessions. My managers and agents (who recommended him) were extremely pleased with the many choices we had and remarked that they thought the shots were "classy but also very fun and authentic". I also highly recommend his in-house makeup and hair artist, Lauren Gott. Paul not only give you a great product but his process is so fun and stress free that you can forget why you're there in the first place (which for me, was a huge plus).

Such an amazing experience. From the amazing headshots to his super nice and friendly personality. Will not disappoint!

What can I say that hasn't been said already in all of these other reviews. Paul is a MASTER at what he does. You know someone is a master at something when they make it look easy. Effortless. Paul does exactly that. I have never been happier with headshots before. And Lauren is the master on the hair and makeup side. Seriously what a team they make. Aside from how incredible my headshots look they're also a really good hang. The atmosphere was so relaxed and fun. I couldn't have asked for a better experience.

Paul Smith is a super talented Australian photographer with a cool, hip loft studio in downtown Los Angeles. It is pretty special to see him in action when he is doing a photo shoot. Really, it is kind of magical. First, he sets the right vibe, lighting and background music...and then he gets into the zone. He has this amazing ability to capture the essence of a person in his photos...which is EXACTLY what you MUST HAVE for a great headshot. He is extremely professional, but more than anything, he is just extremely talented when it comes to photography. Typically, out of 200 photos of myself, I might barely like one or two. But, with Paul, I can almost say that I am pleased with every single frame. Yes, you will probably pay more with Paul compared to all of the various sub-rate photographers out there, but it is well worth it. When you need an amazing headshot, Paul is about the only one, that I know of, who can deliver. I know dozens of photographers in Los Angeles who offer special deals for headshots; but over the years, I have never once recommended any of them to any one....with the exception of Paul. In short, Paul Smith has the magic touch.

So professional and so talented!! I absolutely love my new headshots. Not only did they look amazing, but he got them back to me not even 24 hours after the shoot. My favorite headshots so far.

Paul is the best photographer I've worked with! I did three looks with him and am so happy with all the photos we took. I have never been so happy with head shots and feel like Paul really captured my spirit in each of his photos. I also had my make-up done by Adriana who was wonderful and did a great job with highlighting my features for each look. All of my family and friends love my photos as well and have been asking me who did them. Paul was very professional and made me feel very comfortable from the get-go. Whenever I need new head shots from now on Paul will be my go-to-guy. Thanks, Paul!

I recently did a photoshoot with Paul and he was absolutely AMAZING! The pictures are the best I've ever had. The entire experience was fun and professional. Paul is a gifted photographer and a great guy. I highly recommend him to anyone!

Paul is extremely professional, talented and he takes the time to get the perfect shots and his prices are beyond reasonable. He was recommend to me by a very well known casting director and it is apparent why. I will certainly use him again.

Paul is absolutely brilliant with a camera, and shooting with him was such a wonderful experience. The photos went above and beyond my expectations and the shoot itself was relaxed and fun. I'll be going back for sure!

After spending a small fortune on various headshots over the years, I'm so glad I finally found Paul. His pictures captured me at my best. My representation loves them. And he is a great dude. By far the best headshots I've ever had, and some of the best money I've ever spent.

This is the first time I'm absolutely in love with my headshots. The whole experience was just wonderful, Paul and Lauren (HMU) helped me feel my best! I'll definitely be shooting with them again!

I can't say enough good things about Paul. I was long overdue for headshots and was really anxious to get new ones. Paul and his makeup artist Lauren were an absolute dream team and made the experience so enjoyable and effortless. They are masters at what they do and on top of that are two of the friendliest and funniest people ever. I LOVE my new headshots and highly highly recommend working with Paul!

Aside from being one of the most genuine and fun loving photographers I have ever shot with, it was clear from the start of our session that Paul cared deeply, both for his work and my satisfaction with his work. I couldn't have been more thrilled shooting with Paul and his very talented, extremely cool makeup artist Lauren. If you are at a level of your career where you can begin to call yourself a professional, I highly recommend going with Paul. I can't sing higher praises for him and I will certainly turn back to him when my shots are in need of an update. Thank you Paul!

Paul Smith was well worth the investment. My head shots were done so well that a professional retoucher told me they didn't need any retouching- and they didn't. (I'm not a perfect or flawless person- it was all his skill, lighting, angles, etc.) The pictures I got were so great I've been using them for 2.5 years- they still look like me and still serve my exact type. The real difference is Paul's photos are super flattering- but he still took the time to talk to me and get the shots that actually LOOK like what I look like when I walk into an audition. Completely satisfied and will definitely go back.

Omg Paul is so talented and kind and funny! He makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. I have never been happier with headshots.

... Go to Paul Smith for your pictures ... He's the best of the best ... the veritable "Top Gun" of photographers. My last pictures lasted me 11 years and got me a ton of work. Just got new ones done with Paul and my managers, agents, and I are attracting tons more work.

Paul is an amazing photographer and easy going & fun to work with. I've seen many photographers in the past and I've never felt more comfortable. He's worth every cent. And I can tell he has a true passion for what he does and that makes the whole process more enjoyable! I couldn't recommend him highly enough. He's a true artist!

Paul smith is one of the best headshot photographers in LA! He is very professional and as an added bonus he is also one of the nicest and coolest people you'll meet in this town. He takes the time to prepare you for the shoot so that you'll get the best results out of it. He provides tips and things to think about before arriving to the amazing studio for your shoot. I've had an amazing experience working with him. he has a great eye and his shots capture the attention of agents, managers and casting directors alike. With these shots I signed with a great agency and wonderful manager, in every casting director workshop I go to my headshots get praised and presented as an example of what a good shot is. My career has seen amazing opportunities thanks to these headshots- They get me in the room and then it's up to me to stay there. Think about your shoot like an acting gig- If you are giving nothing there will be nothing for the camera to capture. think about an inner- monologue, think about characters you think you are right for and what they would think or convey. Do the work and your career will jump forward with the help of this top photographer. I recommended Paul Smith to several of my actor friends who all had the same great experience and result. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED Check out some of my headshots on IMDBpro (they are in the resolution the website demands and are so crisp and sharp in their original resolution and when printed) IMDBpro Lonny Ofry. https://pro-labs.imdb.com/name/nm4803143/photos

I originally had my head shots done by someone who was ranked very high online, but did a horrible job. So I went to Paul, whose portfolio online had enticed me from the beginning, but whom I didn't go to initially because he seemed way too expensive. Paul seriously knows what he is doing. The lighting and angles he uses, the poses he asks for, the moments he takes those shots - everything is amazing. He brings something out of those photos that other photographers don't. His experience and skill show. I can't recommend him enough. He is so good that most people need little to no retouching at all. Amazing. I wish I had just gone to him in the beginning instead of paying twice. Save yourself the time energy and money and just go with him if you really want something great and are willing to invest to get it.

I really enjoyed working with Paul for two main reasons. First and most important - my headshots look AWESOME!!! Second - I had a ton of fun. Paul provided totally relaxed atmosphere, there was no pressure to be good, or someone I am not. I felt at ease. He has a nice studio and he is a really nice, down to earth guy. We were having few laughs and at the same time Paul was very efficient and professional. I'm recommending him to all my friends. FIVE STARS!

Yes. Go. He knows what he's doing, I hired my own make up artist because I've been traumatized in the past but I am thoroughly happy with my head shots, my reps are thoroughly happy and they get me in so many rooms so go get your tools with Paul. Also know your favorite music so he can put on Pandora :p

Yay! I really liked Paul and got great shots. I've been recommending him to everyone. He's especially great for women, as he makes you feel wonderful while you're shooting and that comes through in the shots. The space is also really funky and cool. Definitely go for the makeup, too. The only downside is the price-- it's definitely on the (very) high side.

Well worth the money! The whole experience was great. I highly recommend getting your make up done, the woman who does it is wonderful. I got so many beautiful shots. It''s nice to get your moneys worth and not have to get new head shots a few months later because you weren't satisfied.

Paul Smith is excellent, we use him every time, and agents LOVE him!

Paul himself is a very cool, chill, and eccentric (in a good way!) guy. His attitude and obvious love for his craft is inspiring and will put you at ease for your shoot. While I didn't work with his make up artist because I brought my own I did have the opportunity to meet her and she's simply lovely- I also got to see her work on the client he shot prior to me in passing and her work is stunning. His studio is amazing with lot's of natural light with many different options for backgrounds, moods, and creativity. Paul is also more than happy to assist with wardrobe choices, and most importantly he looks at you like a person, not a paycheck- and sincerely wants you to be happy with the end result.

I just shot with Paul for the first time and these headshots are the best I've ever had. In fact, everyone I know who's shot with him (and it's a lot of people) have gotten amazing pics time after time. That alone should be enough a reason to shoot with him, but he also happens to be a super cool, laid-back guy who makes the whole shoot fun & easy. Plus he emails you back personally - it's not like some machine. Sure, he's not the cheapest, but his prices are competitive with the other top photographers in LA. I've spent hundreds of dollars trying to get good headshots for less money and it always ends up costing me more in the end because I keep having to reshoot. Headshots cost money. Better to put it down knowing you're going to get something great. Paul is a sure thing!!

I had so many good photos to choose from it took me forever to decide! His makeup artist is fantastic, too and they are both warm lovely people who put you at ease. I am so happy with my decision to get my headshot taken from Paul. I literally could not have hoped for a better outcome.

I shot with Paul last year and never got a chance to rave about him and his work on yelp. So, I'm doing it now! Paul was great fun to work with and is a pro all around! He was hilarious and really knew how to direct me physically to get fabulous pics! People still rave about my headshots! I'll always recommend him and definitely use Paul again!