How I Set Up a Professional Headshot Studio at NZ Tech Rally 2025

How the NZ Tech Rally shoot came about

This one started with a bit of curiosity and some initiative. I saw a LinkedIn post from a previous client mentioning the NZ Tech Rally. That led me to click through to the event website, where I found more info about the rally and noticed there wasn’t any mention of photography or headshots being offered.

I looked up the organiser’s contact details, sent them a direct email, and pitched the idea of offering professional headshots to attendees. I explained how it could add value to the event experience, create a reason for people to stop and chat, and give attendees something genuinely useful they could take away.

They responded positively almost straight away. We had a quick email exchange to sort out logistics, pricing, and flow. I offered attendees headshots for $50—roughly a third of my usual studio rate—to keep it accessible and appealing. The organiser added my setup to the event page and gave me a great spot in the venue to work from. I offered attendees professional headshots for $50, roughly a third of my usual studio price, making it an easy yes for people who’ve been putting it off.

Bringing the studio to Tākina

Tākina is an amazing space—bright, modern, with loads of natural light. I brought in my usual kit and adapted it for a high-foot-traffic environment with limited control over ambient light.

My lighting setup

• Key light: Elinchrom ELB 500 with a 125cm Deep Silver Umbrella, feathered for soft wraparound light
• Fill light: Backlight Elinchrom 35x100cm Strip softbox, placed above and behind the background to create background separation

Camera gear & settings

• Camera: Canon R5
• Lens: RF 70-200mm F2.8L IS
• Backdrop: Savage Thunder Grey seamless
• Workflow: Tethered to Capture One Pro on my MacBook
• Settings: ISO 400, f/5.6, 1/100s

Shooting, reviewing, and delivering headshots fast

Even though the setup was minimal, I delivered a premium result. Each session lasted just 3 to 5 minutes. After their session, attendees were sent a private gallery where they could choose their favourite photos and purchase more if they wanted to.

Image review in real time

During shooting, clients reviewed their images on my tethered laptop. This help as they were able to see how the photos came out and if any adjustments were needed.

Editing and post-production

For the people who picked on the day I was able to turn around the photos the same day. Back in the studio, I used Retouch4Me for quick but clean retouching. Turnaround was under 48 hours.

What people said

The feedback was immediate. Some attendees updated their LinkedIn profiles on the spot. I overheard lines like “I’ve been meaning to get this done for ages” and “This looks way better than my last headshot.”

A few attendees even left a 5-star Google review before the day was out. Others circled back just to say thanks. It was clear the setup added real value to the event.

Want to Book This Setup?

Headshot Packages: For individuals or teams wanting a clean, studio-quality portrait

Contact: Get in touch to book a session or enquire about event headshot

If you're planning an event, conference, or company offsite, having a professional headshot booth adds real value and creates something attendees will actually use. I bring my full studio setup—including lighting, backdrop, and tethered workflow—to your venue, and handle everything from start to finish.

Whether it’s 10 people or 100, I’ll make sure everyone walks away with a polished portrait they’re proud to use. Let’s talk about how we can make it happen at your next event.