Creative Studio based out of New York

About

Carlos David StudiosAbout

Portraits with Purpose. Stories in Every Frame.

Carlos David Studios is a boutique photography space based in East Harlem, led by artist and director Carlos David. We specialize in portraits, headshots, and branding photography for artists, creatives, and changemakers.

With a cinematic eye and a storyteller’s heart, Carlos creates images that do more than capture how you look—they express who you are and where you’re going. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, performer, or visionary, our sessions are designed to be transformative, empowering, and uniquely you.

The Person Behind the Lens

Carlos is an award-winning visual brand strategist with roots in Mexico, a creative home in New York City, and a family life in Slovenia. His work has been featured in international exhibitions and editorial spreads, and he brings the same level of artistry and intention to every client session. Before founding Carlos David Studios, he built a career capturing the faces of artists, cultural leaders, and activists—work that continues to inform his approach today.

Our Signature Offering

Our Personae Series is where portraiture becomes art. Styled, expressive, and deeply collaborative, these sessions are ideal for anyone looking to present themselves with authenticity and imagination. Inspired by classical painting, fashion editorial, and personal mythology, Personae portraits are made to be printed and displayed.

We also offer clean, professional headshots and branding sessions, perfect for websites, social media, auditions, and press kits.

What We Believe

At Carlos David Studios, photography is more than a service. It’s a shared creative process that honors your story, personality, and vision. We aim to make every session intentional, relaxed, and impactful—an experience that leaves you feeling confident, seen, and inspired.

Based in NYC. Available in Slovenia.

Carlos splits his time between New York City and Ljubljana, offering sessions in both locations throughout the year. His East Harlem studio is ideal for in-depth shoots, while pop-up sessions in Slovenia are crafted with the same care and artistry.

Want to Learn More?

Check out our Signature Packages, follow us on Instagram @CarlosDavidPhotography, or get in touch to schedule a consultation.

FAQ

📸 What types of photography do you offer?

We specialize in portraits, headshots, and personal branding photography. Our signature experience is the Personae Series—an expressive, stylized portrait session that transforms identity into art. We also offer clean, professional headshots and branding sessions for websites, auditions, press kits, and social media.

💼 Who do you work with?

We work with artists, actors, creatives, entrepreneurs, and professionals looking for images that reflect both character and confidence. Whether you need a classic headshot or a bold visual story, we tailor the session to fit your goals.

🧍‍♀️ What’s the difference between a headshot and a Personae portrait?

Headshots are clean, polished portraits with a focus on professional use—perfect for LinkedIn, acting portfolios, or press materials.
Personae portraits go deeper—they’re cinematic, conceptual, and often theatrical. This series is for those looking to explore identity, self-expression, or transformation in front of the camera. Many clients choose Personae sessions for personal storytelling or print-worthy artistic portraits.

🗓️ How do I book a session?

Reach out via our contact form to schedule a consultation. We’ll discuss your vision, session type, availability, and next steps. A deposit is required to secure your date.

🎨 What’s included in a Personae session?

Personae sessions include a creative consultation, an extended photoshoot with custom lighting and backgrounds, and a curated reveal session where you can choose your favorite images for print or digital use. We also offer add-ons like hair & makeup or wardrobe styling.

⏱️ How long does a session take?

Headshot and branding sessions typically run 30 to 90 minutes, depending on your package.
Personae sessions run 2 to 3 hours, giving us room to create multiple looks and dive into a fuller creative process.

💄 Do I need to bring my own makeup artist or stylist?

You’re welcome to come styled—or we can arrange professional collaborators for hair, makeup, and wardrobe styling. We’ll talk through your preferences in the consultation and add any styling services to your session as needed.

👗 What should I wear?

We’ll guide you! For headshots and branding portraits, simple, well-fitted clothing in solid colors works best. Bring 2–3 options, including one that feels like “you” at your best.
For Personae sessions, we encourage more creative wardrobe choices. You can bring your own, or work with a costume stylist (available as an add-on). Many clients find it fun to explore character, mood, or even fantasy through their styling.

💰 What’s the investment?

We offer sessions at different tiers. Each includes a creative fee, and you can purchase individual images, packages, or printed products after your reveal. Most clients spend between $750–$2,500, depending on how many images or prints they choose. We’ll walk you through the full pricing guide on your intro call.

🖼️ Do I get to choose my images?

Yes. After your shoot, we’ll schedule a reveal session where you’ll view the best images and choose your favorites for retouching and delivery. This is also when most clients choose to add prints, albums, or additional images.

🖼️ What print products do you offer?

We offer museum-quality prints, framed wall art, custom albums, and digital collections. Most of our Personae clients choose to print at least one piece for display. Your reveal session is where you’ll see all your best images and select the ones you’d love to keep.

⚖️ Who owns the photos? What can I use them for?

You receive personal usage rights for all purchased images. That means you can use them online, in print, on your website, and across social media. We retain copyright as the photographer, but you have full freedom for non-commercial self-promotion.
If you’re looking for commercial licensing (e.g., book covers, ads, or merchandise), let us know—we’re happy to tailor a license agreement.

🌍 Do you travel for shoots?

We’re happy to travel within NYC. For shoots outside of the area—or for seasonal bookings in Slovenia—reach out and we’ll see if we can coordinate. Travel fees may apply.

📍Where is your studio?

We’re based in East Harlem, New York City. Our sessions take place in our home studio or on location in NYC. We also work out of Ljubljana, Slovenia during select months of the year—reach out to inquire about availability.