Pageant Headshots with Hair & Makeup - Dorothy Shi Photography NYC

Why Contestants Choose Dorothy

• Expert guidance for pageant-specific looks. We understand what judges expect across systems (glam vs. natural, editorial vs. commercial, platform-driven branding).
• Polished yet natural retouching. Skin remains skin; details are refined for a clean, print- and web-ready finish.
• Lighting designed for your features. Flattering, modern light shaping for sparkle in the eyes and dimension in the cheekbones.
• On-brand styling. From teen contestants to international queens, we tailor poses, expression, and wardrobe to your system, age division, and platform.

What's Included in Every Session

• Professional hair & makeup by top NYC artists (camera-ready with optional light changes)
• Multiple wardrobe looks (studio + nearby outdoor options)
• Guided posing & expression coaching (micro-adjustments that matter on the score sheet)
• Expert retouching for a polished, natural finish
• Private, supportive studio experience on the Upper West Side
• Pre-session consult on wardrobe, jewelry, and pageant-brand positioning

Perfect For Every Level

• Miss USA & Miss Universe delegates seeking high-impact, glamorous images
• Miss America & Miss World America competitors needing versatile editorial + natural sets
• USA National Miss & United States National Pageant titleholders updating official press images
• Teen & Miss New York state finalists preparing standout composites and submissions
• Local & regional winners preparing for national and international stages

Dorothy Shi Pageant Headshot Packages

NYC Pageant Photographer - capturing your winning image with confidence, beauty, and timeless style. All packages include professional direction, expert lighting, and full online delivery of every image right after your session.

Booking & Add-Ons

• Retainer: 50% deposit to reserve your date; balance due day of session
• Extra retouch: $15 per image
• Additional look: +$125 each (time permitting)
• Rush turnaround: +$99

Can I Bring a Parent?

Absolutely - one guest is welcome at your session. If the talent is under 17 years old, one parent or guardian may attend (no additional guests allowed)

Ask about on-site headshot bars for pageant weekends, group rates for teams, and rush delivery.

The Session Flow

1. Pre-Session Strategy

A brief call or email consultation to align on your system, age division, brand words (e.g., "elegant," "fearless," "approachable"), and wardrobe plan.

2. Hair & Makeup

Camera-ready styling refined to your system's aesthetic-glamorous yet clean. Lashes and light changes as needed.

3. Guided Posing & Expression

We coach angles, hands, posture, and micro-expressions (smile intensity, eyes, chin position). Expect a relaxed, confidence-building experience.

4. Look Changes

Quick transitions for varied editorial and beauty looks-perfect for composites and program books.

5. Culling & Delivery

You'll receive a private proofing gallery. Choose your favorites for retouching; we deliver both high-res (print) and web-ready files.

What to Wear (Quick Guide)

• Necklines: Sweetheart, square, or asymmetrical flatter most contestants; avoid busy collars that compete with your face.
• Fabrics: Solid, luxe textures (silk, satin, well-structured knits). Avoid overly reflective sequins for close beauty shots (great for full-length, less for tight headshots).
• Palette: Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby) and sophisticated neutrals (ivory, camel, black).
• Jewelry: Minimal, intentional-earrings that frame without overwhelming.
• Fit: Tailoring matters. Press garments and bring backups.
• Crowns & Sashes: Welcome-please bring official items for one or two polished portraits if desired.

Retouching & Turnaround

• Style: Clean, refined, and natural-skin texture preserved, tones evened, flyaways minimized, teeth and eyes brightened.
• Turnaround: Proofs within 3 business days; standard retouched finals within 7-10 business days. Rush available.
• Licensing: Unlimited personal and pageant-use rights (web, social, program books, press). Ask about commercial licensing for sponsors/brands.

Location

**Dorothy Shi Photography**

Upper West Side, Manhattan * Convenient to major subway lines and Central Park outdoor spots for variety.

Ready to Book?

Create flawless, crown-worthy portraits that command attention-from New York to Miss Universe.

Call: 212-864-5931
Web: dorothyshiphotography.com
Studio: Upper West Side, NYC