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Stopped Down Studio
STOPPED DOWN STUDIO
Bay Area Headshot Photographer
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Oakland Headshot Photographer

Show the world who you are

Professional headshots

Obviously, you have superpowers

You're here because you need to show them off. You need to inspire, and cameras get in the way of that.

Lucky you, you found me. I also have superpowers. I see you. And I know how to show you off. I do this with a little witchcraft and a lot of technique—but mostly, it comes down to talking to you like a person.

And I make it incredibly easy.

Headshot of Garrett
Headshot of Donte
Headshot of Rommel
Headshot of Patience
Headshot of Wendy
Headshot of Pallavi
Headshot of Gregory

How a headshot session works

I've already handled most of it
  1. Book some time. Don't worry about posing, what to wear, or bags under your eyes; I'll help with all that.
  2. I light, position, and direct you to look great. We review as we go. You pay for your favorites at the end.
  3. You get killer high-res photos a few days later, retouched by hand.

Laura Rappa

Actress

Photo of Social 01

If you are an actor, and need headshots—this is the guy! Adam has a rare gift. He has little secrets and techniques that immediately put you at ease and help capture expressions that feel authentic and alive. His use of lighting is creative and unusual in the best possible way. My final headshots didn’t just look like me-they captured who I am.

Hi, I'm Adam

Portrait of Adam

Though I started making headshots in 2014, I developed my visual style as a graphic designer over 25 years. I studied "visual literature" and performance poetry in college, and toured the US once as a slam poet. Gave up my kid in an open adoption and moved to Oakland so we can hang. Every month or so I find a new reason to thank my exes for breaking my heart.

96 reviews

(and all of them five stars)

Headshot of Kaitlyn
Kaitlyn Gernatt
Google
Verified

I needed new headshots and boy did Adam deliver! He made me feel super comfortable and confident behind the camera. In our planning session he made suggestions on what I should wear and asked lots of questions to get to know me as a client. As a result, the images he captured are authentic and capture my personality unlike headshots I’ve had taken in the past. Thank you, Adam!!

Photo of Hanna
Hanna Freedlund
Google
Verified

What a great experience working with Adam. He clearly knows his stuff but keeps the vibe easy and casual so it’s not intimidating. I’m not particularly comfortable in front of the camera so really appreciated Adam’s direction and tricks to getting me to loosen up and be more natural. And of course, love love love the final product. Do yourself a favor and book a session -- you won’t regret it.

Headshot of Jean-Claude Cubias
Jean-Claude Cubias
Google
Verified

Easily one of the most genuine, funny, and patient photographer I have ever allowed to take my portraits. I'm a photographer myself and have worked with many photographers over the years but never felt so comfortable in front of the camera. Adam truly has a gift for making you feel at ease and bringing out your best self.

Photo of Cat 01
Cat Camille
Google
Verified

Great session with a professional head shot that I was able to use for various events and publications! Adam gave some great guidance on how to pose most effectively- and this has continued to be helpful for any posed photos. I often use the techniques he taught me to make sure my photo poses aren’t flops. The photo shoot was tailored to me and the final shot reflects me authentically- it doesn’t feel like those awkward uncomfortable forced ’yearbook’ type headshots that look like someone else altogether. The final result looks natural, looks like me, but captures me at my best. The live feedback during the session and the photo selection/review built into the process helped me more involved- he worked WITH me, used my input and my preferences. It was truly a whole photo shoot experience- not some empty impersonal shoot-and-click experience like I’ve had elsewhere. Highly recommend if you want a professional headshot that you will actually really love and feel good about.

Headshot of Sam
Sam Snell
Google
Verified

Taking pictures with Adam was amazing, he helped me feel very safe and comfortable, and had a lot of great feedback and attention to detail to offer for my posing that helped convey confidence. It was strategic but also very personal, and we connected on a human level

Photo of Cynthia
Cynthia Avila-Baca
Google
Verified

I had a photo session with Adam for professional headshots, and it was by far one of the best experiences I’ve had. He was really personable and made me feel comfortable; especially since this was my first time doing professional headshots. The whole process was relaxed, fun, and easy. I would absolutely recommend Adam to anyone looking for great photos.

Headshot of Spydre V
Spydre V
Google
Verified

Highly recommend Adam’s work. He’s great at getting natural looking headshots. Love the results!

Portrait of Sydnei Taylor
The Golden GAUDS Collective
Google
Verified

This was the best session I have had in front of a camera in a long time!! Adam works as intently and intentionally at getting you into the right headspace as he does getting you into position for the best shot! My final shots were impeccable! I was able to view myself from new perspectives with just playing around with the light! This is a great experience for someone looking to truly see themselves!

Photo of Mitch 01
Mitchell Wilcox
Google
Verified

I really love the photos that Adam took of me and I often don’t like photos taken of me that aren’t candid shots or portraiture in general that isn’t candid. That kind of photography makes me remember picture day in school and I rarely liked any of those photos. Even in a studio setting you can catch people doing things and he got some really good ones while we were just talking. He kept me very comfortable and we just conversed while he took photos. It felt like the camera wasn’t even there. He caught me just being myself, which is the kind of portraiture I am the most into. He would casually give small directions in the middle of our conversation and even that was in no way obtrusive or fake. His eyes were not always on the viewfinder or fixed on the camera screen, but often on me, and he would look around it and smile at me as we talked. What a beautifully disarming move. I really enjoyed modeling for him and loved the outcome. I would do it again and I am sure the photos would be awesome in round 2.

Portrait for Letter 3
Letter 3
Google
Verified

We hired Adam to shoot one of our artists, and the experience was top-tier. He is an exceptional coach who made the talent feel confident while directing the session to get the exact shots we needed. Our client is thrilled with the professional assets. Stopped Down Studio is our new go-to—we can’t wait to get Adam to a live show!

Portrait of Remy
Remy Fernandez-O'Brien (they/them)
Google
Verified

Taking portraits with Adam was a wonderful experience. During the session, I felt relaxed, well-guided, and supported in my queer identity. The end products were both the most professional and most creative pictures I have of myself to this day. I would highly recommend Adam!

Portrait of Christian
Christian Drake
Google
Verified

Adam shows you the ’you’ you never see in the mirror. This isn’t the portrait that you’ve always practiced for photos, adjusting your eyes and hoping your smile is "right" this time. This is the portrait that shows you as others see you, alive and in motion. It’s the rare film capture of you in one of your most unmistakable moments, as your expression slides from one genuine reaction to another in a way no one else could imitate. It’s moments like these that help parents tell their twins apart at a glance. With some bold art direction and a little banter that’s both charming and disarming, Adam can find that look, that detail, that essential expression that sets you apart. I’ve used Adam’s services for both professional headshots and personal keepsakes, and here’s what I learned from both experiences: you’re not your favorite pose. Show employers what they’ll actually see in you when you’re there in person, at your best. Remind friends what they’ve always loved about you but never been able to describe. You’ve always known that version of you is there; it just hides when you look for it. If you’re ready to meet them face-to-face, and introduce them to others, go sit down with Adam.

Photo of Erin
Erin Jackson
Google
Verified

Working with Adam felt less like getting my picture taken and more like being invited into a story. He has a way of holding up a mirror so you can see your best angles without ever feeling posed or artificial. The session was light, easy, and strangely grounding. I left feeling more like myself than when I walked in. The headshot he created carries that feeling forward: professional, yes, but also deeply authentic. It’s the kind of photo that doesn’t just show you, it tells a story about you.

Portrait of Jessica
Jessica Helen Lopez
Google
Verified

When I say cathedrals is first, Adam is an absolutely talented and professional photographer. He’s got such a great eye! I still use the photo he took of me a few years back as my author biography pic for my book jackets. I wholeheartedly recommend him for your next photography needs!

sid abelman
Google
Verified

Adam took headshots of me and my wife at an event. He immediately put us at ease and took many pictures of each of us. The photos were amazing. He is truly a gifted photographer and we heartily recommend him!

Gingerbread Roses
Google
Verified

I recently got my headshot taken and it was honestly such a unique experience. I loved the pictures a lot.

Jess Rodgers
Google
Verified

Adam was so awesome to work with. Super thoughtful and great at giving direction and explaining things well. I loved how collaborative he was and he has a great sense of humor. Would work with him again in a heartbeat!

Jamira Holden
Google
Verified

Adam was amazing! I absolutely love how my headshot turned out, coming from someone who doesn’t have many. I believe all the laughing he made me do helped. Highly recommend!

R G
Google
Verified

Really enjoyed my photo session with Adam! His kind and friendly presence was great at helping me feel comfortable in front of the camera, and he took the time to go through a number of photos and help select the best shot. Highly recommended!

William Oakley Powell
Google
Verified

Adam was lovely to work with. As someone who feels very uncomfortable in front of a camera, I was quickly put at ease by Adam’s friendly and relaxed approach. Throughout the shoot, I was able to feel confident and good about myself with his guidance and tips. Being able to see the headshots and pick out the best ones with Adam helped me feel even better about the final result. Once I received my headshot, I was impressed by the quality of the final product, and feel it will help me present myself best in professional settings. Highly recommend Adam for the wonderful work he does.

Renee M. Sweeney
Google
Verified

Adam was offering headshots as part of a larger event, and my existing headshot was about 10 years old. I was dressed up but nervous, but Adam was so kind and friendly, and the result is fantastic! What I love most about it is that I look like the best version of myself - I’m making a face I would actually authentically make. I can’t thank Adam enough.

Ted Charleceus
Google
Verified

Adam is an amazing photography, he knew the right questions to ask to get a good picture out of me.

David Fogel
Google
Verified

Adam Rubinstein is not just a photographer; he is an artist who can open your soul to show through in his photographs.

Xinyu Tian
Google
Verified

Adam is the rare photographer who doesn’t just make you feel comfortable and confident, but actually teaches you photography tips along the way. I typically feel uneasy around new people, yet the entire time in his studio felt completely natural. Above all, I have never seen this side of myself captured in a photo before.

Isabel Garbarino
Google
Verified

I booked headshots with Adam and the experience was great!! His set up was very professional and i was there for about 2 hours. The photos turned out amazing and I felt comfortable and had a lot of fun! Adam knows how to make you laugh for sure. Would definitely recommend!!

charlie
Google
Verified

Great experience, Adam is great at capturing expression through storytelling and light hearted conversation. You’ll leave with awesome images. Would highly recommend to any model/actor looking for killer headshots.

Orange Phanta
Google
Verified

Good connection and direction, explained how everything works and got some really natural cooking photos

Julianna Waggoner
Google
Verified

Adam is a delight to work with. He is kind, thoughtful, funny, and his sessions are perfectly paced. He takes his TIME, and his work is gorgeous.

Mark Enea
Google
Verified

Adam was an absolute pleasure to work with. He was genuinely interested in my journey and pulled thoughts and emotions that the camera picked up quite nicely. He’s also a terrific conversationalist! I highly recommend Adam for all your headshot / portrait needs!

Sura Levine
Google
Verified

Adam is wonderfully professional, personable, talented, and he created a beautiful portrait of me that I plan to use as my official author page for the foreseeable future. His banter relaxes the sitter and he makes numerous images rapidly making it possible to capture a fully relaxed face. I recommend him to adults and children alike.

Sarah Bleviss
Google
Verified

Adam is a phenomenal portrait photographer. He really knows how to make his subjects comfortable and capture their authentic selves. Highly recommended!

Cameron Weston
Google
Verified

This was the most unique - in a very good way! - headshot session I’ve ever had. We talked for a good 15-20 minutes before shooting anything at all, and built a great rapport throughout the session. He very much took his time, was positive and encouraging, and I can’t emphasize how happy I am with the shots he took. I’m really glad I found him and will absolutely be back!

John Morrel
Google
Verified

Adam Rubinstein’s work on head shots for me gave me more understanding or the way fine photographers work and produced finished photos that my family was delighted to receive. His attention to every detail from setting up lighting and poses to finishing the photos made it easy to work with him and to choose from a set of images those that were best for my purposes. Thank you Adam..

Dick Rubinstein
Google
Verified

Adam is a wonderful photographer. He helped me just be myself in front of the camera, with great results. He has the right equipment for the job, and I liked the process of picking the shots that I wanted to have. His website makes the interactions after the shooting session easy.

Julie
Google
Verified

Hands down the best headshot photographer I’ve ever worked with. Able to work with non-models and guide the on exactly how to pose to look their best and look truly like themselves! The whole team got headshots and raved about Adam. We’d definitely bring him back to photograph any new hires. His passion for this exact work is clear and shines in the way he shoots and interacts with everyone.

Dar
Google
Verified

Working with Adam was an absolute pleasure. He made taking head shots an easy and fun experience. He kept me laughing the entire time and his quick turn around means you’ll get your touched up photos sooner rather than later. I highly recommend working with Adam at Stopped Down Studio.

Stefan Aronsen
Google
Verified

If your goal is a perfect profile picture and a couple of hours of fun in a chill studio … look no further. You’ve found your photographer.

Joel Rubinstein
Google
Verified

Adam came to our home and set up a small photo studio. He photographed my wife and me, my daughter’s family, and my son and his girlfriend. While taking the photos, he made everyone laugh, smile, and feel at ease. He even got me to smile. The photos turned out beautifully, and I am looking forward to displaying them on our wall. I highly recommend Adam!

Chloe De Lisle
Google
Verified

Adam is excellent at not only taking professional photos, but also making you feel comfortable, at ease, and loose during the session. He knows how to coach you in your posture and makes great conversation. He’s incredibly friendly and shows genuine interest in your aspirations. I’d never gotten a headshot taken before and was very impressed by the quality. I am so fortunate and grateful to have been the recipient of his work and highly recommend getting your headshot from Stopped Down Studio! Thank you so much for your warmth and coming back to Hampshire for us, Adam.

Violet Gibson
Google
Verified

Brilliant photographer who provided me with an excellent headshot. Easiest recommendation of my life.

Keith Rubinstein
Google
Verified

Great experience. He keeps you relaxed throughout the whole process by asking you various icebreaker questions so that you forget you are having your photo taken. But most importantly, the end result, the photos look great. Lots of options to choose from before deciding what photo(s) get touched up. Both relaxed and professional. If you are nervous about getting your photo taken (who isn’t lol), you’ll be in good hands.

Sierra Lanzoni
Google
Verified

Amazing experience. Adam is incredibly kind and will make you look fantastic!

Fatma Zohra Madouni
Google
Verified

Exceptional experience! Very professional, friendly, and patient. The photos turned out beautiful, and I’m very happy with the results. Highly recommended!

Greg Mingels
Google
Verified

Great experience. As a former Creative Director, I am no stranger to photographers.I have used dozens. Adam has a unique gift of bringing out the personality in his subject, which transcends to his shots. At least he did with me. I am tough to photograph. I am delighted with his vision, what he shot, what he presented, and what I am left with as a final result. A+.

Ash Richardson-White
Google
Verified

Adam is incredible!! He so clearly articulates how you should move, he’s an amazing teacher as well as an amazing photographer. I came in not feeling my best and was shocked at how good I looked in the photos! The atmosphere is warm and welcoming. He got me laughing right away. He’s also very good at helping you narrow down your selections without making you feel bad or embarrassed about the less-than-pretty takes.

Julie Johnston
Google
Verified

Adam was absolutely fantastic! He has a really warm and loving personality that made it fun and relaxing to get a genuine smile out of me.

Juliana Woodruff
Google
Verified

Both my daughter and I had our pictures taken by Adam. It was such a breeze to work with him. He knew exactly how to help us feel at ease and relax to get natural photos and help my daughter feel comfortable. We will treasure these pictures forever. Thank you so much, Adam!

David Ward
Google
Verified

We had such a wonderful experience working with Adam. He’s a unique soul who brings a completely different energy to photography. He made the whole thing fun, relaxed, and meaningful. He framed the session as building sandcastles: we kept what worked and let the rest wash away. He has a way of looking beyond taking a picture and capturing something that feels deeper and more authentic. The photographs truly speak from the soul. They captured not just how we looked, but something about who we are together. We’re grateful for the time, creativity, humor, and heart he brought. If you’re looking for someone who sees photography as more than just taking pictures, we highly recommend him. A truly memorable experience with a genuinely memorable person.

Ben Brunetti
Google
Verified

Adam did an amazing job with my portraits and head shots. The pictures capture my personality and look, and they look primo. His studio is very professional and he does a great job of getting his clients to be at ease and bring out their best self. Thanks Adam!

Gabriel Riggle
Google
Verified

Adam is an exceptional photographer and all around good dude! He was incredibly professional and fun. The interface for sharing my photos (including the one you see on my Google profile) was intuitive and brought my friends and family into the process. When I become famous, Adam is the only photographer I’ll sit for.

N
Google
Verified

I had a great session with Adam last week. He really got me to feel comfortable in front of the camera, and the photos ended up looking just like me, but better -- exactly what I wanted out of a headshot! Would highly recommend.

Nelson Arrieta, Jr.
Google
Verified

I got my headshots done and Adam took his time and paid attention to detail to exactly what I needed. He was an all in one package from steaming my wardrobe to making sure I got what I invested in. He is one of the realest photographers I have ever worked with being just the right amount of honesty to get your best side and show people your authenticity

Kelly Garcia-Ortiz
Google
Verified

Had an amazing experience! The headshots turned out amazing! Adam made the whole thing so fun and easy. Would definitely recommend going to him for headshots and portraits! Such a professional and awesome guy!

Gideon Lorete
Google
Verified

Working with Adam Rubenstein is an absolute thrill and an honor. I met Adam at an incredible photographer workshop under the direction of Peter Hurley. When you work with Adam Rubenstein, you have nothing to fear. As an actor, Adam has a very nurturing and creative way of bringing your best self into the camera. You surely will be pleasantly surprised!

Nisha Singh
Google
Verified

As a creative professional, Adam led the session from the moment I booked to the shoot, with care, equity, compassion, and a dedicated eye to help me connect to the experience. He gently challenged me to find my center of gravity and connect to my essence. As an actor, dancer, and comms professional, I felt seen and supported. Highly recommend Adam for professional and personal headshots.

Tristan Hissong
Google
Verified

Adam (Stopped Down Studio) is FANTASTIC to work with! Very warm and personable and creates amazing, professional and authentic photographs. He truly wants the best for his clients and will help you to make sure your photos stand out "against the crowd". I cannot recommend him enough!!!

Annoyed Author
Google
Verified

Experience was solid from booking to the actual session. Had constant communication the entire time so I knew exactly what I needed to bring and do for the shoot. Photos came out beautiful, even though we had an issue with a tripod breaking. He didn’t let it affect him. Would absolutely recommend.

Roberto Barreto
Google
Verified

Adam provided an excellent experience. He really tries to bring the best out of his clients and is very collaborative.

Patience Okani
Google
Verified

I had such an amazing time working with Adam! Before I even arrived to his studio, Adam was extremely informative. He let me know how I should prepare for photos and his process is extremely detailed. I find his website very self explanatory and easy to navigate which is a huge plus for me. On the day of the appointment, Adam thoroughly explained how the photoshoot would go and what to expect. I felt comfortable with Adam even though it was my first ever photoshoot due to his explanation of the process. Even as we were doing the photoshoot, he made a welcoming environment with his amazing playlist. As we took pictures, the conversation between us kept flowing and made me less nervous. It was amazing to see how my demeanor changed from nervous to confident while looking at the different pictures. I recommend Adam to any person looking for headshots!

Photo of Social 01
Laura Rappa
Google
Verified

If you are an actor, and need headshots- this is the guy! Adam Rubinstein has a rare gift. He understands actors and somehow knows exactly how to bring out your unique personality in every shot. He has little secrets and techniques that immediately put you at ease and help capture expressions that feel authentic and alive. His use of lighting is unlike anything I’ve experienced. It’s creative and unusual in the best possible way. My final headshots didn’t just look like me-they captured who I am.

Photo of Social 11
Chloe De Lancie
Google
Verified

Adam was a pleasure to work with. He was friendly, professional, and made my headshot session a great experience. He gave me some posing tips and made sure we got what I needed during the session. I definitely recommend working with him!

Photo of Social 01
Rommel Huerta
Google
Verified

First of all, Adam was very polite and professional. His transparency from the very beginning was on point and I do not think there is another photographer like him! He ran some points and made the sure I understood the plan. I even learned a few things too when posing! Adam is a very charismatic guy and made me feel at home. His directions were clear when explaining the session and even throughout. Our conversations felt natural like I was meeting a friend for a coffee. I really, really appreciated the layout of his website and how organized it is. I am a sucker of good organization so seeing this site being well put up and not confusing made the whole process even better. I will definitely be coming back for more professional photos to kick start my career. 100% recommend! You will not be disappointed.

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JeJe Gentry
Google
Verified

Not only is Adam extremely talented and took fantastic photos, he put me at ease and made me feel comfortable. I now have some great headshots, had fun while the time flew by!

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Emily Happe
Google
Verified

I had a great session with Adam for my acting headshots. I am very new to the industry and inexperienced, but he made the experience very easy and enjoyable. Highly recommend!

Photo of Social 01
Sara Rehart
Google
Verified

Had a great experience shooting with Adam. The equipment he has are top notch, he has an eye for lighting to be super flattering, and he makes you feel at ease while shooting ! The headshots I got from our session are spectacular and would highly recommend for other creatives in the area looking to get their headshots done !!

Photo of Social 01
Kevin Esparza
Google
Verified

This was my first time doing my headshots professionally, and Adam was very easy going. He made me feel extremely comfortable, he as very friendly and he told me exactly what I needed to do to get perfect photos. Overall it was a wonderful experience!

Photo of Social 10
Evan Mirabella
Google
Verified

I had a great experience getting my headshots taken with Adam. He was incredibly encouraging and professional throughout the entire session. He told me ahead of time to bring multiple outfit options, and he even steamed the shirts we ended up choosing, which was such a thoughtful touch. He also let me do a fourth outfit change at the end of the session without making me feel rushed at all. During the shoot, he gave helpful posing and expression tips and explained the reasoning behind each one, which made me feel much more comfortable and confident. Afterward, he walked through all the photos with me to help narrow down the best shots. Overall, it was a really supportive and collaborative experience. Highly recommend!!!

LamorindaMarketing
Google
Verified

Adams approach was totally new to me and focused on what casting directors look for... not just a smile but many more aspects of what creates range. He’s got a great setup and the shoot went very smoothly.

Photo of Social 01
isabella doherty
Google
Verified

I had such a great experience working with Adam. The process was very comfortable and professional he took his time to get the best angles. Truly appreciated the honest and constructive feedback that helped get some great shots. Adam really cares about his work and the people he works with. I am really happy with the photos we got and would definitely recommend him to anyone. He is truly a talented photographer!

Photo of Social 01
Joshua Burkholder
Google
Verified

Adam was an absolute delight and marvel to work with! The vibes, the speed, the attention to detail, and warmly disarming; Adam had me feel right at home at his studio. But the jewel of the experience came after getting our mutliple sets of different outfits shot; where as he took me through the photos we took and we filters through the photos im real time. Getting the opportunity to hear his professional thoughts and insights regarding the photos while we went through the photos was so cool and helped me get past some of my self-conscious in photos i would have normally passed or dismissed. To top it off, I received my incredible headshot and selection of other proofs just 3 days later. THREE DAYS LATER! That’s a great turn around! He even provided me some of the fun outakes from moments between the takes our conversations. The photo I’ll add is one of the outtakes that was given to me on the delivery of my headshot and proofing gallery. *I’ve gotten permission to post.* All in all, Stopped Down Studio was a blast; the session flew by, the photos are great, and I would recommend any artist or professional to Adam. 10/10

jill pollack
Google
Verified

Adam makes the entire process a walk in the park; from setting up appointment details and reviewing expectations ahead of time to making sure the end results are absolutely perfect. I am beyond pleased with the photographs. My only regret is not doing it sooner!

Photo of Social 01
Garrett Alvarado
Google
Verified

A great experience! And amazing headshots. Highly recommend

Photo of Social
Duncan Bruce
Google
Verified

adam was super professional and helpful for a first timer like me and his photos turn out fantastic

Photo of Social 01
Francheska Loy
Google
Verified

Best experience I’ve had with a photographer! Adam gave all the info I needed to know beforehand, so I felt prepared. The session itself was amazing. I felt really comfortable and I had a fun time. I felt it was easy to talk to Adam and to work with him. He also gave very helpful tips on how to pose, and he looked through photos with me as we went and pointed out what worked and what didn’t. So I learned a lot in the process too! I feel really great about the headshot that came out of our session, and I could see myself going back the next time I’m in need of professional photos. Highly recommend!

Photo of Social 01
John Orozco
Google
Verified

Had a great session with Adam for my headshots. Thanks!

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Ignacio Martinez
Google
Verified

Great experience!! Would definitely recommend for any photoshoot needs!

Portrait of Ana
Ana Henderson-Arjona
Google
Verified

Booking with Adam at Stopped Down Studio was effortless. I’m usually camera shy, but his coaching made me feel comfortable and look natural. The final images are beautiful, and I have photos I’m excited to share! Highly recommend Adam for bringing out the best in his subjects.

Headshot of Meka
Meka
Google
Verified

Excellent photographer with a knack for making you feel and look your best.

Photo of SOCIAL 3x2
Rodrigo García
Google
Verified

Had an individual photo session here and it was a great experience! The photographer was professional, friendly, and made me feel really comfortable in front of the camera. The photos turned out amazing, highly recommend this studio!

Photo of Social 12
Reed Bobroff
Google
Verified

Adam is an incredible photography with a great sense of tone, direction, and light. He knows exactly how to capture the spirit and energy you’re looking for. I had a wonderful experience working with him!

Business runs on feelings (and your corporate headshot proves it)
Patrick Mitchell
Google
Verified

Adam did a fantastic job and I had a great experience overall. I enjoyed the initial interview to find out what I wanted and was a fun process during the session. Would recommend to anyone look for professional pictures for all platforms of social media

Photo of Jazz
J Rache
Google
Verified

More than a photo shoot! Adam is a dynamic photographer, artist, writer, and humanitarian. He brings such heart and sincerity to his work, he makes you feel at home, then captures that authenticity in a flash. My favorite photos to go back to, I can recognize myself instantly. Stopped Down Studios 🙌🏾⚡️

Photo of Brandy
B M
Google
Verified

Representation matters, and when Adam asked me to be part of a local photography project, I was really honored. He was professional, caring, and he has an incredible eye. Don’t hesitate to reach out and book a session, you will not be disappointed!

Portrait of Elmer
Elmer Martinez
Google
Verified

I had the pleasure of working with Adam on a few occasions! All of these sessions resulted in photos I’d use for my modeling, work headshots, family gifts and so many more marketing uses. They’ve always been the most complemented of all my photos by everyone who enjoys them! Also, Adam is full blown artist and through our work has become a friend! Definitely check him out and don’t miss out!

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Shane Smith
Google
Verified

Almost a decade ago, a friend introduced me to Adam, and I couldn’t be more grateful. From the outset, he made me feel completely at ease, encouraging me to share my story and express myself truly. The result was a collection of stunning, authentic images that I still love. Adam’s intuitive ability to connect and bring out genuine expression transforms every session into something uniquely meaningful. Highly recommended—I can’t wait to work with him again.

Photo of Social 01
Duran Fernandez-O'Brien
Google
Verified

I needed a few portraits and was lucky enough to have met Adam through my sibling. Adam was so easy to work with. He was flexible with his time and even came to me to take some portraits. He then shared about 10 photos to choose from and I selected three. The session and post session work was timely and prompt but never felt rushed.

Photo of Rafa
Rafael Martinez
Google
Verified

Working with this photographer was an exceptional experience from start to finish. What truly sets them apart is their genuine kindness, thoughtfulness, and deep commitment to understanding each client as a unique individual. From our first conversation, I felt seen—not just as a subject in front of a lens, but as a person with a story worth capturing. They took the time to learn about my professional goals and personality, which made a huge difference in the final headshots and portraits. The results weren’t just technically excellent—they were emotionally resonant, reflecting the confidence, warmth, and authenticity I wanted to convey on my career and professional websites. The session itself was relaxed and encouraging, with gentle guidance that helped me feel comfortable and natural. If you’re looking for a photographer who goes beyond the surface to create portraits that speak to who you are, I can’t recommend them highly enough. Their work is not just beautiful—it’s personal, intentional, and empowering.

Photo of Matthew
Matthew Brown
Google
Verified

Working with Adam Rubenstein was such a joy. From the very start of our shoot together he created a space that felt safe, open, and fun, which took the pressure off and let me just be myself. Adam has such a playful energy while still being incredibly professional and timely, which made the whole process smooth and stress free. What I loved most is how Adam has this natural gift for bringing out your most authentic side. He has an intuitive way of making you forget the camera is even there, and what comes through in the photos is the real you. As someone who is part of the poetry community, it also means so much that Adam shows up as a true ally and supporter. You can feel that care and intention in the way he works with artists, producing headshots that many of us ports refer to colloquially as a “the Rubenstein headshot.” The headshots we created together have already become a big part of my poetry press kits and upcoming performance tours. They have been used for featured gigs and opportunities, and I know I will keep coming back to them in the future. I am so grateful for Adam’s talent and the way he helps people shine in their most natural light.

Karen Garrabrant
Google
Verified

I’ve known Adam for twenty years (or more at this point). He has an impecable eye for capturing the essence of a person’s character for professional headshots, book covers and promotional materials. I have used two both professionally with my employer, Emory University, as well as for my book cover and I have used others from the same shoot for promotional materials and readings.I spread his name gladly with credit, hoping others will seek him out. I trust nobody more than Adam for capturing the most flattering moments, angles, lights, and artistic expressions. He manages to make the most creative, least stereotypical variety of photo while capturing the best form.The conversation during the shoots manage to draw out closeness and familiarity, bringing the images up to a warm, familiar, personal next level. I will say as well that,through years of work capturing poets perform in team poetry slam competitions as well as the stwges and scenes surrounding performances, he’s the best photographer I know for taking pictures of candid moments in sometimes not the most flattering of environments. The majority of my favorite photos from my time in performance poetry are ones he took, both of me as well as other poets. Through Adam’s lens, he gets the heart of a person’s meaning in visual representation. The images he creates are priceless and timeless as well as professional. Of you are fortunate enough to book some time in a photo shoot with him, don’t hesitate to do it--just say yes!

Headshot of Eric
Eric B
Google
Verified

I consistently use the same photo Adam took of me for professional theater and film. Although, the session wasn’t originally planned for headshots with his innovative coaching and direction I feel that he captured my unique vulnerability and versatility. Techniques he introduced me to during our shoot, I still use today with great success. He is a gem and I hope to sit with him again soon.

Headshot of Andrea Wedell
Andrea Wedell
Google
Verified

I came to Adam for a headshot without really knowing what to expect. I'd seen his portfolio and loved the work—his photos felt honest and intriguing, like he had captured the essence of each person. I'm not usually comfortable getting headshots. In front of video I'm fine, but with photos every little thing I'm self-conscious about—my mouth, my age, you name it—seems to come up. Adam put me at ease in a way that felt very unique. He offered simple tricks that made a big difference, gave great prompts to think about as he shot some images, chatted with me easily, and before I knew it he had captured a set of images that were completely different from anything I've ever had done before. They feel like me—unique, on brand, and full of character. Adam is professional, easy to work with, and has a true artist's eye. I recommend him wholeheartedly.

Photo of Dan
Dan Gottwald
Google
Verified

Working with Adam is a real treat. He’s thoughtful, imaginative, playful and dedicated to capturing as much "you" as possible.

Photo of Def I
Def-i
Google
Verified

Adam is one of the most talented photographers I met on my journey through music and art. I definitely would highly recommend this studio to anyone for all occasions! Adam has great skills experience, equipment and more plus is very easy to work with. Not to compare to others I’ve worked with over time, but our photoshoot went by effortlessly and much quicker than expected. Adam delivered incredible results with the studio portraits & concert photography as well! I’ve been applying Adam’s portrait of me for years and it seems to be one that promotors, presenters & friends enjoy to add on tour flyers, press & more. 🙏🏽 Thank you, Stopped Down Studio & Adam!

Photo of Michael
Michael Wakim
Google
Verified

I’m usually shy in front of a camera but Adam made me feel very comfortable and I ended up getting one of the best headshots I had ever gotten. He was very kind and very professional. Would highly recommend!!

Headshot of Damien
Damien Flores
Google
Verified

Working with Adam was a dream! His professionalism and knowhow made our photo session an amazing experience. I’ve used his photographs in many of my press kits, especially as Poet Laureate of the City of Albuquerque. I’ve even included his photography in my first published book, "Junkyard Dogs." I highly recommend working with him for your professional photography needs. A+++

Portrait of Justin
Justin Woo
Google
Verified

I’ve been using Adam’s portrait of me for years. In fact it’s my Google profile pic associated with this review! He’s wonderful to work with in the studio on a personal level and his technical skill is second to none. He has a naturally good vibe that sets you at ease. Highly recommended.

Headshot of Joe
Headshot of Isabella
Headshot of Sam
Headshot of Ben
Headshot of Kawai
Headshot of Peter

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