"Right at the entrance of Sihyunhada Hongdae, you can borrow accessories like headbands, glasses, and ties to use during your photoshoot.

You’re then taken to a waiting area where you fill in your details and choose three descriptive words for your desired style (I chose fresh, elegant, happy), along with your preferred background colour (this can be changed later). There’s also a change room in this area, so bring your own outfit as they don’t provide clothing.

Next, you’re brought downstairs to a prep room with vanity tables where you can straighten your hair (hair straighteners, combs, and brushes are provided). I recommend bringing your own makeup for touch-ups.

After that, you’re taken into the studio and meet your photographer. She confirms your background colour and shows you a booklet with all the available options. I chose baby pink, and there were multiple shades and tones to select from.

The photoshoot itself is very well guided. You’re seated on a stool and instructed to do four poses, each with three facial expressions (straight face, closed-lip smile, and smiling with teeth). The photographer also adjusts your hair and outfit throughout to make sure everything looks perfect on camera.

The shoot takes about 10 minutes, after which you’re taken to a computer to select your favourite photo before the photographer begins retouching it.

I made my booking through Naver as a foreigner and had no issues at all. I linked my Wise card and paid the full amount at the time of booking. Prices vary depending on which photographer you choose. I chose Da Eun (I paid 84,000 krw), and she was incredibly friendly and amazing at what she does, she made the whole experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Overall, the experience feels professional, calm, and very Instagram-worthy. Highly recommend if you’re visiting Seoul."

S Raymond

"Highly recommend for profile photo shoot! I went with photographer “Daeun” who was super sweet and nice, made someone who doesn’t like taking pictures feel very comfortable. If you like more than one picture, it’s also possible to pay extra and keep more pictures.

NOTE: Booking as foreigner, I could not use Naver for booking. You can only book through Creatrip, which requires booking 7 days in advance. Check the availability of each photographer you are interested in booking with FIRST through Naver before booking through Creatrip. Booking within 7 days, probably try to call them or have a Korean friend book for you through Naver!

They have support for English-speakers, but it’s always helpful to have Papago on hand for translating specifically what you want."

Wyn

"It was my first time doing a photo shoot ever and I'm glad the experience was with Sihyunhada. My only regret is that I didn't go with the bigger package, but more reason to come back in the future.

My photographer was friendly yet professional. I was nervous about the shoot since I'm usually awkward on camera, but she quickly dissolved any concerns from the get-go. The experience was enjoyable from start to finish on top of the English-friendly process. She guided me with what facial expressions and poses to do during the shoot, clearly communicating how to make adjustments while giving little encouragements here and there so I felt my best. After the shoot, she did the color corrections and touchups at lightning speed. I was in awe seeing her work her magic. The entire process took less than an hour, including the shoot and edits. I was able to take home the prints same day in a cute cassette tape, and it is one of my fav souvenirs from my Korea trip.

The final shots were great! I wish I could take all of them, but I went with the basic package, so I could only choose 1 picture."

Sharleen Mock