Business Details
31 Years
experience
Professional Model & Talent Photography Services in Tempe
Empire West Studios, established in 1995, is a premier photography studio specializing in model and talent photography for children, teens, and adults. With over 30 years of experience in the fashion, music, TV, and film industries, founder Clayton Hall combines technical expertise and artistic vision to deliver high-impact imagery that sets clients apart. The studio's unique Performance Photography approach captures dynamic movement and expression, essential for talent seeking representation.Backed by an A+ BBB rating and 80% client success rate in securing agency representation, Empire West offers comprehensive services including wardrobe styling, hair and makeup, and custom printmaking. Their portfolio includes work for major magazines and collaborations with top agencies, ensuring clients receive industry-leading results.
Services
Headshots
Performance Photography
Montages
Twin Sets
Film Strips
Wardrobe Styling
Hair & Makeup
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of industry experience in fashion and entertainment photography
- Proprietary Performance Photography technique capturing dynamic expression
- 80% client success rate securing agency representation
- Full-service studio with hair, makeup, and wardrobe experts
- Award-winning portfolio development since 1995
Associations and certifications
- Better Business Bureau (A+ rating)
What people say
Incredible photos
Professional and friendly
Career-changing experience
Artistic excellence
Patient instruction
Services
Headshots
Professional headshots tailored for models and actors. Our sessions focus on capturing authentic expressions and market-specific looks. With expert wardrobe guidance and makeup artistry, we create images that highlight your unique appeal and industry readiness. Clients receive multiple polished options for immediate use.
Performance Photography
Dynamic photography emphasizing movement and expression. This technique showcases talent through staged sequences that demonstrate versatility. Ideal for actors and models needing portfolio pieces that demonstrate range and emotional depth for casting directors.
Montages
Multi-image narrative spreads that demonstrate performance capabilities. These three-page layouts create cinematic impact by showing progression of movement and character development. Perfect for making immediate visual impressions during agency submissions.
Twin Sets
Creative single-frame dual portrayals that showcase versatility. Using lighting and styling techniques, this service creates the illusion of twin characters interacting. Adds memorable visual interest to portfolios while demonstrating range.
Film Strips
Series of images capturing rapid character transitions. Designed to demonstrate acting range within a single shoot sequence. These strips provide concrete evidence of emotional versatility and performance adaptability for casting professionals.
People
Clayton Hall
Photographer & Principal
30+ year veteran of fashion and entertainment photography. Former electrical engineer turned award-winning photographer. Developed Performance Photography technique. Featured in Rolling Stone, Vogue, and W's Accessories. Graduated Villanova with BSEE degree.
Barbara Elaine Muller
Creative Director
Hair and makeup artist with 30+ years in fashion and film. SAG actress with commercial and theater experience. Developed signature natural styling approach. Collaborates with top agencies and photographers nationwide. Provides creative direction for all studio sessions.
Questions
What photography services do you specialize in?
We specialize in model and talent photography including headshots, performance photography, montages, twin sets, and film strips for aspiring models and actors.
How should I prepare for a photo session?
We provide wardrobe consultations and styling services. Bring multiple outfit options and allow 8-12 hours for full sessions to ensure comprehensive portfolio development.
Do you offer hair and makeup services?
Yes, our team includes professional hair and makeup artists with 30+ years of industry experience creating camera-ready looks for all photography styles.
What's your success rate with client representation?
80% of our clients secure agency representation locally and nationally within three months of receiving their portfolios.
How long does the photography process take?
Full sessions typically require 8-12 hours with multiple outfit changes. Editing and final print production take 2-3 weeks for completed portfolio delivery.
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