Headshot Tips for Actors and Talent
Most Important
Firstly, you should look exactly like your headshot. There should be no surprises when you arrive at your audition. This truly has to be a case of WYSIWYG.
Secondly, and just as important, the looks and personality captured in your headshots must sell you.
Generally
Fill out the questionnaire we send you on first contact to tell us a little about yourself. It will also give you a feeling for the look you’d like to achieve before you arrive.
Have lots of water and be rested. This helps you to relax during the session.
Arrive on time, not early, as we may be finishing up with another client before your shoot. Please let us know if you are running late.
Preparation
Practice specific and favourite poses and expressions. Visualise and use a mirror to get them right before the shoot.
Your Character Type
What kind of character are you likely to play? Consider the look they are likely to have and bring along the attitude and wardrobe that supports this character. Think good guy teacher versus crystal meth chemist.
Wardrobe
For an actor you wardrobe has two functions. The first is that it should make you feel great. The fashion you choose should be stylish, even new, but not over-done. The second is to support the character type that you are looking to play.
There are things that you should avoid including logos or branded fashion, busy patterns and shiny fabrics.
Black and darker colours work well, but also other solid colours. Remember the idea of ‘your colour’.
For men, suits, an variety of jackets, pants, ties and belts to create a variety of looks. For women different tops, necklines and outfits to bring out the personality you most want to portray.
And your jewellery:
Your jewellery should follow the keep it simple rule. If it is likely to distract from your face, it is better off left out of the shot. So unless it is an important part of your image don’t bring it. Do you really need that piercing?
At the shoot:
Bring your most recent headshot. How will the new images be different?
We have Spotify music selections to listen to during the shoot, but if you have a preferences bring them along.
Grooming aids, makeup and lip stick and lip balm for the men.
As for hair and makeup:
We can provide makeup on the day of the shoot.
Choosing your own? The clean and natural look works best.
Stay away from shiny shimmers, sparkles and shine: they make your skin too white. Products that contain minerals do not work well. Lip stick for women and for men and actors under 16, lip balm.
If you are deciding to change your hairstyle for the shoot get it done a week or more out. Get used to it and let it grow in, it will feel more natural on the day of the shoot.
Finally:
With a positive attitude it is much easier to catch the real you!
