Acting Headshots Dos and Don'ts
Acting Headshot
Dos and Don'ts
You’re starting to get ready for your headshot sessions and you want to make sure you do it right. We’re going to give you the Dos and Don’ts of Acting Headshots.
Do your research on your headshot Looks.
Don’t show up with a bunch of clothes and no idea of your character types.
Putting together your Looks is one of the most important things you can do as you prepare for your acting headshot session. Your looks tell the story to casting directors of what you can be. They are looking for someone to fill a role. You want your looks to project that character.
Google images is a great place to start. Search for your character types and see what pops up. It’s a great way to get some reference ideas. Maybe start a moodboard on your types. It helps you visualize what direction you should be going.
Dumping your wardrobe on your photographer and saying, “I have no idea what to wear” Just shows that you’re not prepared.
Do have your hair cut and color in camera ready shape.
Don’t come with dark roots and expect it to be fixed in post.
Not having your hair prepared is just as bad as not having your clothes prepared. Or showing up to an acting job and not knowing your lines. Get a haircut, Trim your bangs. Color your roots. Do whatever you need to be camera ready.
Do bring hair styling products and tools.
Don’t be that person with messy hair and nothing to brush it with.
The best thing to do is to get the makeup/hair artist. (women, men not so much) If you are doing your own thing, then be prepared. Bring everything you need to style your hair. Even though you might not use them in your everyday life. It’s better to bring something and not need it than to not have it when you do need it. At the very least bring a brush and some hair spray.
Do be professional and show up on time.
Don’t be late.
Being professional should be something you practice in all aspects of your acting career. Being on time is a big part of it. Make it a constant practice to always act professional and always be on time.
Do communicate to your photographer what your goals are for you headshots session.
Don’t go through life with no direction of goals.
Every action you take should be intentional. If you want to get somewhere in life you need a direction. The same goes for your headshot session. Know what you want to get out of it. Tell your photographer, then the 2 of you can work on it together.
Do go for personality in your shots.
Don’t try to just get a pretty picture of yourself.
Your headshots is a reference to the types of characters you can play. Casting directors want interesting people to play interesting parts. Show some personality in your shots. There’s only one you and that’s your ace in the hole.
Do wear natural makeup.
Don’t over glam yourself.
Headshot makeup should be natural. There’s no need for fake eyelashes, heavy contouring, or heavy makeup. It should look like a great version of the real you.
Do know that you are in the hands of a professional.
Don’t stress out and worry.
You are coming to a professional to get your headshots. I’ve been doing this for almost 20 years. I know how to get you a great headshot. There’s no need to worry. You are going to see the photos as we do the shoot. You’ll know exactly what’s going on. If you want to give input on the process, feel free. Its’ a team effort and we are all trying to get you the best headshots.