Michael Helms Photography

I was disappointed with my photographs from Michael Helms.
Michael himself was really nice. The experience was very pleasant and when I didn’t like some of the photos we were reviewing he’d shoot more. He wasn’t money grubbing or trying to upsell me. I appreciate that.
However the photos I walked away with weren’t anything special. I felt like I was just part of his «system.» Serious face to smile… ok we got it, next look. There was no time to work, to bring out personality, to try anything interesting. He has a very set way of shooting and that’s what he does. If it weren’t for me asking for reshoots the whole session would have been over in 45 minutes. Bing bang boom. Let’s get this done.
The work is aesthetically pleasing but lacks any punch that will make you stand out in the crowded world of acting.

Michael is simply awesome! I have shot my acting headshots with him three times over the past seven years and shooting with him is always a pleasure.
Michael Is truly committed to capturing shots that work for the subject. He lights each person in the unique way that flatters them most (rather than lighting everyone the same); he lights so beautifully, in fact, even his unretouched images look amazing. He also takes the time to really understand what his clients are seeking to accomplish with the session.
Michael is my go-​to photographer where headshots are concerned, as I always walk out of his studio feeling as though we nailed exactly what my agent and I were going for. I have received only positive comments from the photos we did together (from my agent, casting directors, directors, others in the industry, friends, family…). I just shot with him again today and could not be happier with the results.
In addition, I would like to mention that the makeup artist I had lined up had to cancel last minute, but Michael came through with a wonderful makeup artist/​hair stylist, Meghan Blaycock. She, too, is outstanding.
(Note: This review was written by Sherri, Erik’s wife.)

I had the best experience this past weekend shooting (head shots) with Michael Helms. Not only am I thrilled with the photos, but it was very very COMFORTABLE. Michael is extremely relaxed in his approach, so that energy transferred to me, the new, nervous client. Also, I loved Meghan Blaylock, make up artist extraordinaire — She did an amazing job.
I went into this situation extremely nervous because about eight months ago, I had a bad photo shoot and an even worse make up artist. The photos were so lousy that I became depressed, convinced that I am ugly. It was traumatic. That caused me to be hesitant about ever shooting again, except I wrote a book and need a current picture for the back jacket. I HAD to do it. Fortunately, a neighbor (a working actress) said «You have to go to Michael Helms! Don’t go to anyone else. All my friends shoot with him.» Since she is around my age and her pictures are terrific, I contacted him. UPSHOT: If you are looking for head shots or business shots, look no further. Michael Helms is the bomb. And… nobody, including Michael, asked me to write this. I left his studio on Saturday rejuvenated, confident and even healed as a result of our session. P. S. I brought my playlist and blasted it — made it more fun.

Perfection! I am a photo phobic playwright. My producers had asked me for a headshot. I heard of Michael Helms, and had the pleasure of meeting him. He seemed like a nice enough guy. So I called to schedule an appointment.
I told Michael I would like a headshot that represented me as a warm and approachable person. Michael listened! I am giddy with the results. The photos are beautiful, I look warm approachable and there is no mistaking that the photo is me. Beyond what I had hoped to have.
Having shown a handful of industry people (because I am not an authority in this area and wanted input) I was told by a casting agent friend, that Michael is a Master of Light, a Artist Manager said that there was not one bad photo all were usable, and my Producers are over the moon.
I wish I had gone to Michael years ago. If I had I would have saved years of being photophobic.
Thank you very much Michael.
I absolutely recommend Michael to anyone, everyone who is looking for a professional photographer. Actors and professionals alike, he is the right choice.

Do you want headshots that will perfectly represent you? Do you want images that exude total professionalism and help you to put your best face forward? Do you want a shoot experience that is professional yet fun? If you answered «yes» (or even just «maybe») to any of these questions, you owe it to yourself (and your career!) to book a session with Michael. Let me tell you about my experience, and hopefully you too will see why Michael is deserving of every star.
After months of dragging my heels due to extreme nervousness, I finally decided that I couldn’t put off my headshots any longer and I reached out to Michael through his website. He got back to me right away through e-​mail with his availability, and together we set a date in the not-​too-​distant future. Michael made the recommendation of booking a makeup artist and offered to contact her on my behalf (more on her in a moment). He made the entire process of booking the shoot very easy and low-​stress.
On the day of the shoot, I arrived at Michael’s studio, which is located in the back half of his home in Shadow Hills. It’s a really peaceful place, with options for shooting indoors and outdoors. Right away, Michael sized me up and helped me to select my best two commercial looks, and then he sent me to the makeup chair. The artist he recommended, Meghan Blaylock, has years of experience working with him, and they have a wonderful rapport that makes you feel comfortable and erases any nervousness you might have (because you can tell that you’re in good hands).
When my makeup was done, Michael set up the shot and got the perfect look in less than 20 clicks. I’m not kidding: he’s a genius with lighting. Same with looks 2 and 3, and then even a little «fun» one at the end when the wind lifted my hair and gave me a sort of untamed look. All told, I walked away at the end of the shoot with 100 snaps divided among 3 looks on a CD, and 3 beautifully retouched final images. You simply have to watch him work in Photoshop — it’s unreal how fast he is at retouching. Best of all, he keeps it natural! No weirdly smooth Barbie faces here. Your images are YOU.
I wholeheartedly recommend shooting with Michael and I know I’ll be back again for a zed card shoot when I decide to dip my toes into the commercial print sector. Just let him do his thing from start to finish and you will be rewarded with some of the best images of yourself that you’ve ever seen.

I have had my headshots taken by Michael for about 18 yrs! I have gone to some other photogs to get quick, cheap shots and that is exactly what they were. I always return to Michael for pix that casting directors love and that get me in the door! I love you Michael! Oh, yeah… he is a really great, laid back guy and a wonderful studio.

No one knows lighting and faces like the lovely Michael Helms. He’s passionate about his art and it shows. He’s the best.
He’s easy to work with, endlessly entertaining, and a total pro. I had the good fortune to work with him as a makeup artist for many years. Never a dull moment in the very best way.

I had been admiring Michael’s photography for many years. I decided to take advantage of Michael’s Skype one-​on-​one tutorial and had the chance to ask him many of the questions I had racking my brain. Michael is not only obviously, a top notch photographer, but is a fantastic teacher as well. He was so open to sharing his experience with me and took the time to walk me through some of the questions I had. When the opportunity came up for his weekend workshop, I jumped at it! The instruction I received was invaluable, models and location was great and his partner, Kaz was wonderful with making sure the weekend details flowed effortlessly. I absolutely recommend Michael as a photographer and a teacher to anyone and everyone!

Michael Helms is a consummate professional and a true artist with a camera. I have been fortunate enough to take one of his seminars, and my photography has improved by leaps and bounds with his help. If you need headshots, if you are building your portfolio, if you are looking to improve behind the lens, I cannot recommend Michael highly enough.

I love shooting with Michael Helms! Michael shot my head shots for acting and shot my modeling portfolio which helped me to get signed by agency’s in both LA and San Francisco. His years of professional experience is obvious in his work. He is an absolute joy to work with! It’s too bad he now has to photoshop the bruise on my chin from hitting the floor after seeing the images he took of me :)

I have been fortunate to participate in several of Michael Helms photo workshops. The studio location is superb, and the instruction has always exceeded my expectation. Michael goes above and beyond, to make sure everyone has gained from the experience.
My photography improved immediately, and my confidence grew tremendously. The encouragement, hospitality, and individualized attention make you feel like family, and I will forever keep my eye open for the next opportunity to participate in another of his workshops. If you have the chance, don’t think twice, jump in with both feet.

Photography has always been a big part of my life. When I joined an online community for photographers and artists, I immediately notice Michael Helms’ work.
Each image was stunning, the visual ambiance, and expression was so inspiring! I thought, I want to learn from him!!! Then I thought, he’s soo talented, he probably has absolutely NO time to speak to me.
I am delighted to say, I was soo wrong! Not only was I able to speak with Michael, but I was able to attend one of his phenomenal photography classes. Michael is extremely professional, and gracious in sharing his knowledge. He really takes care in making sure each student gets the right amount of attention and time.
Even though his photographic career has been, to me, pretty damn epic… Michael approaches his students with constructive advice and guidance in a way that really makes you appreciate who he is and what he, as a photographer has learned over the many years of work.
I am looking forward to attending more classes, and strengthening my craft with Michaels help! I’m also looking forward to the amazing food his gorgeous partner prepares for lunch! You’ll leave class more knowledgeable, happily full, and feeling like you’ve spent the day with some pretty amazing people!

Searching for inspiration I ran across Michael’s work online. His work inspired me so much that I did something I normally do not do, I contacted him. He’s very kind and willing share and he was not afraid of me being a stalker… at least that I am aware of. When I found out that he previously held workshops I did something else I never do, with anybody, I sort of begged for him to do another and asked for a time period that coincided with my high school reunion. He did and I went! What can I say? I wanted to learn about shooting with natural light, about working with models and how best to set up a shoot. It was all new for me and the photos I came home with were awesome. I created a professional portfolio and coffee table book from them.
I could go on for pages and gush about Michael and his work, you would want to shoot me after awhile. I am planning my future trips to see family and friends to coincide with Michael’s workshops. Hopefully he’ll read this, I am trying now to see if he will hold one of his workshops in Europe, perhaps Italy or France. Hint, hint, however if you are looking to improve your photography skills or a session with him for headshots or any other creative ideas you want to run by him, he’s the person to go to.

I just shot my new head-​shots with Michael Helms Photography. It was a great experience. His studio is top notch. I’ve always known that Michael has a passion for photography. I’m so glad I got to work with him at the beginning of meteoric come back!
Cant wait to shoot some more!!!
–Dustin Brown

I loved shooting with Michael! He is super laid back and took some amazing headshots, I highly recommend him. I’ve never been happier with my photos :)

I shot with Michael Helms 7 years ago and LOVED my photos. I recently returned for another round of photos (yea — I’m one of those who still had B&W photos!) and got new color head shots taken.
Michael was easy to work with, gave me exactly what I needed, and burned a CD of all my photos that day.
I don’t think I’ll wait another 7 years to shoot again. Michael makes the experience a real pleasure. I send all of my clients and students to him. His rates are reasonable. HIGHLY recommend!