Sitting for a portrait photographer is a lot like visiting the dentist.

The results can be very pleasing. The process? No thanks.

Blame it on traumatic childhood memories of endless tutu-clad sessions in which you were forced to stand against a tacky sky-blue background and say “Cheeeeese” with mantra-like frequency while getting blinded by flashbulbs. You didn’t relish the experience.

Now meet Blaise Hayward. The 39-year-old Toronto-bred wunderkind is such a downright pleasure to be around you never realize he’s taking your photo. And his resume’s as good as they come: He’s shot the likes of Kate Spade, Sam Waterston, Atom Egoyan, Margaret Atwood, Vera Wang, and Narciso Rodriguez. But Hayward hasn’t let such things go to his head. His friendly demeanor and professional flair put you at ease and make you feel like a star, no matter how nervous you actually feel. And the results? Remarkably flattering pictures devoid of cliche.

Well now. That’s almost better than a new set of perfect teeth.

Blaise Hayward, 212-228-2580; or online at blaisehayward.com.