by admin

December 14, 2009

Are headshots just for actors and models? If not, who else needs them?

No, you might be surprised by who needs a good headshot at some point in their career. Authors need them for promotional materials and book jackets. Business executives need them for marketing or press. Designers of all kinds need headshots too. The difference is, for a model or an actor the headshot is the all-important tool used to get work, whereas those other people usually need a headshot after they’ve secured work. It’s an important distinction because actors, models and other people in the image business have a lot more at stake when it comes to selecting just the right photos.

Why are headshots so important? Can’t I use a good snapshot I have lying around?

You could, but don’t expect to get any work if you do! Your headshot speaks volumes about you and has to represent you when you’re no longer in the room. The quality of the photo you submit for consideration has to be top-notch. If your photo is amateurish, the depth your of experience, dedication and maturity as a professional will be suspect. Beyond that, the reason headshots are usually 8″x10″ is so you can staple your resume and other info to the back of it. They are also easy to file, so casting agents will hold on to them for future reference. You should also have a copy that you can add to emails as well for internet submissions. Snapshots are more likely to be thrown out.

What’s the difference between a headshot and a comp card? Do I need both?

A headshot is one picture that shows your best natural self from mid chest to the top of your head. It should be a great photograph representing how you would look at an audition: no glamour, just you looking your best. A comp card is usually 6″x9″ and has between two and five photos of you in a variety of settings and looks. It’s printed on both sides; usually there’s a large photo and your name on one side and smaller photos on the other side. The point of a comp card is to illustrate your range of feasible looks. Having a comp card is good, especially if you are trying to get fashion and advertising work. Actors and those that plan to go to castings for movie roles or TV commercials, a good headshot is essential. If you can only afford one, go with the headshot.

How can I pick the right photographer?

The answer to this varies depending on your budget. If you have no budget, you’ll need to find a photographer wanting to do “test for prints.” This is a mutually beneficial arrangement wherein you get photos and the photographer gets a free model. The free photographer isn’t necessarily the right photographer, however. Keep in mind that this is an investment in your future, and you tend to get what you pay for. Find someone with a good reputation who has worked with the casting directors and agencies you want to appeal to. The best way to choose photographers is to meet with several one-on-one. You should look over their work and spend some time chatting with them. Photography can be a very intimate and vulnerable process, and the photographer is going to be your partner in this process, so the vibe you get from him or her is very important. Pay attention to your instincts, and chances are you’ll know when you’ve found someone you would like to work with.

Should my headshot be in color or black and white?

Good question. Black and white used to be the standard, and it still is for theater actors, but the industry has been moving toward a preference for color headshots. You have to decide what look you’re going for and what message you want your picture to send. Work with a digital photographer to have it both ways; a digital photo in color can always be converted to black and white later.

What should I wear?

Nothing too trendy – you don’t want your picture to look dated due to the whims of fashion. Sticking with solid-colored pieces is the safest way to go, and the classic all-American look is the most common. Definitely avoid loud patterns and writing or obvious designer labels. If you are an actor, be sure that your outfits are appropriate for the types of roles you seek. If you plan to do a headshot shoot of three different looks, make sure you bring at least five different tops. Your photographer might feel that certain articles of clothing will work better than others, so it’s better to bring more than what you need.

How should I do my hair and makeup?

If you normally wear your hair curly, don’t straighten it for your headshot and vice versa. As far as makeup, the natural look is always good. Elements that you think are flaws, like freckles, wrinkles or beauty marks, might be exactly what agents and casting people are looking for! Don’t cover that up with makeup: anyone in the business knows that coverage is always an option, but it’s much more difficult to add what is not there than it is to cover what is there. The thing you want to avoid is appearing completely different in your headshot than you do in person.

But I want to look as gorgeous as possible, right?

You want to look like the best version of yourself, but within reason! Extreme hair and makeup are only appropriate if you want to sell yourself in a specific niche market, and that means limiting your possibilities. Ideally your headshot will communicate exactly who you are. I assure you, clients are annoyed when a headshot has been “glammed up” to the point where it looks nothing like the person in real life or on camera. If a headshot leads to a meeting and you don’t look anything like the person the client was expecting to see, everyone’s time is wasted.

What kind of jewelry should I wear?

You don’t have to wear any at all, but if you really must, stud earrings are the only item that I would approve.

What’s a good background for a headshot?

A good background is a neutral background. The background will usually wind up soft and out of focus, but you don’t want something that will distract the eye. If you’re shooting outside, try a brick wall, a shaded area of a park, an alleyway with everything blurred out in the background.

(Adults) Should I try to look older or younger? Aren’t younger people more in demand?

Not necessarily, that’s a big misconception. You should try to look your age. There’s work out there for everybody.

(Kids) Should I try to look older? Won’t the headshot last longer that way?

No. If you’re wearing too much makeup, there’s no way for casting directors to see your true face underneath. It’s harder to imagine you in different roles if you’ve already assigned yourself one.

How often should children get new headshots?

Children should update their headshots at least once a year. Kids change so quickly, and again, it’s important for one’s headshot to demonstrate one’s current look. However, if you have a good headshot that continues to get you work, keep using it. “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it!”

How should I prepare for my headshot photo session?

If you have any plans to change your look, as in chop off or color your hair, do it before you get the headshots done. If possible look at headshot samples and figure out which ones you like and why. If you can show your photographer the elements you like, the shoot will be easier for all involved. You should also bring your own music because it’s important to be relaxed, and your music will make you feel like you’re in your element. Get plenty of rest. (No partying the night before, unless you’re inviting me!)
What do I do once I’ve selected a photo? How many should I have made?

Look at it closely and see if there’s any light retouching you’d like to have done. Retouching is standard in this industry; don’t feel like you’re cheating if you need to have a zit removed! Decide what fonts and borders you like, then take it to a lab that specializes in headshots. Look for a printing lab that will give you a big discount for your second order, as most of them will. I recommend a first run of two hundred – 100 to send out, another 100 to hold on to for auditions.

What information goes on the headshot?

Your performing/modeling resume should be stapled to the back on all four corners. Include your name at the top (obvious, but people do forget!), your measurements, your contact information, your agent’s information and all relevant experience.

Anything else I should know going in?

Don’t make any unbreakable plans for the time immediately following your scheduled photo session. If for any reason you need more time to get the right shot, you don’t want to feel rushed. Most importantly, try to relax and look confident! Having nervous energy is normal, but hopefully your photographer can make you feel comfortable and bring out your inner superstar.