Creating great all-around acting headshots

What Type Of Role Do You Want To Read For?

This is one of the first questions I ask when actors reach out to me for headshots. I need to know what your goals as an actor or actress are.

Do you want to land roles on Law and Order, or are you going for something lighter and more on the comedic side? I would photograph these two headshots very differently so knowing what we’re going for beforehand helps us both be prepared to have our headshot session.

So what do you do if you’re not sure? I photograph you in a way that could speak to several different types of roles. Thinking about having at least two headshots in this case is a good idea. Then I can photograph you on the brighter and lighter side for the more laid-back, comedy-type roles and then photograph you with darker, edgier lighting, with a wardrobe change to match for that Law and Order role. If you’re going for that one single shot, then we can split the difference with the lighting and wardrobe.

What Does Your Headshot Do For You?

Your headshots serve as your business card, they give a casting agent a glimpse into your personality, range, and suitability for various character types. These will often be the first point of contact between you and a casting agent, making them an essential part of your marketing portfolio.

Your headshots serve as your first impression when submitting for auditions or looking for representation. Casting directors sift through hundreds of headshots when casting a project, so you need to have a compelling and memorable image that stands out.

These headshots will showcase your unique qualities, charisma, and versatility. A professional headshot can capture the essence of a character and grab the interest of the casting agent, leading to audition opportunities and landing potential roles.

Creating a versatile headshot

Expression and authenticity in headshots are important for creating a real connection with casting directors, and audiences. Your expression can convey emotion, personality, and depth, this will help make you relatable and memorable. This is something that I coach in my sessions. I never say “smile” and then hit the shutter. I always want to get a real expression from you. If I want a smile, I won’t ask for it, I’ll say something ridiculous to elicit a laugh. This puts you above those folks who are faking it.

Real, honest expressions help you showcase your range as an actor. It helps show confidence and approachability, it helps to build trust and likeability and lastly, it helps you stand out above the iPhone headshots.

How To Look Good In A Headshot

What To Consider When Creating That One Perfect Headshot

If you’re not ready to create a wide variety of images for an acting headshot portfolio and just need to photograph that one perfect shot, here are some things to consider.

Wardrobe. Keep it simple. Neutral colors are great to start with. You’ll want to stay away from colors that are bright and pastel and you might have a harder time getting the more serious roles. Darker gray or black are great to start with. Solid colors are great as well, blues, maroon, and greens, are awesome colors to shoot with.

Keeping the backdrop simple and neutral is also a good idea here. The image below while more on the confident side, could be used for lighter or more serious roles.

The most important part of that image is the face and the expression. So, keep jewelry to a minimum, keep make-up simple and lighter. Here is an article that I wrote on make-up for headshots.

Okay, so not an exhaustive writing on the subject, but a good starting point. So, if you’re looking for a killer headshot and have questions, reach out below and I’d be happy to chat with you.