actor headshot prep
- James Drury
- Jan 17, 2024
- 3 min read
The aim of the headshot session is to create a series of images that are flattering but realistic. We want to capture what you look like, your character and a range of emotions that generate a warm confidence & interest in the viewer. This is a subtle but important difference between a formal portrait and an actor’s headshot.
There is no hard time limit, but 2 hours is usually plenty of time. If we overrun, no problem, I don't want you feeling pressured or rushed in any way; it’s just important we end up with a set of images that we are both happy with. I’ll share the images with you during the session and we’ll review what works best for you in terms of mood, clothing and backdrop colour combination (I have several different colours with subtle textures).
Headshot Photographers tend to have their own unique style. To give you an idea of my specific style and what we are aiming for in the shoot, please look at the Headshot section of my website
You don’t necessarily need to prepare anything before the session but it is worth considering what roles you or your agent might usually go for or intend to go for in the future? Is there a specific ‘look’ or emotion you or your agent want to capture? If you are a young actor just starting out or highly experienced, you may want to keep your options wide open. Either way, I’ll provide clear directions throughout the session and use several different techniques to achieve a variety of emotions in your images.
Clothing – important - please bring a variety of tops (at least four). Choose deep solid colours that complement you or match your eye colour. Consider green, blue, mustard yellow, or dark orange, and include at least one black top. Avoid pure bright white tops; patterned white is acceptable, as is a white vest or white t-shirt under a shirt or jacket. Steer clear of large logos, but feel free to bring your favourite jumper or top, no matter how bright or heavily patterned. Consider both collared and open-neck tops. Textures often work well. Think in terms of layers; adding a jacket or cardigan can enhance a shot. If possible, please avoid multiple chains or large earrings that might distract the viewer's eye, unless of course your agent has encouraged this or any other 'look' for a specific casting.
Make-up - think about how much you would normally wear for an audition. This approach helps with consistency when you are in an audition on the basis of your headshots. If you wear foundation please avoid a Gloss finish; we will achieve much stronger and more flattering images with a Matte finish. Please bring your preferred Matte finishing powder and your make-up to the shoot, there's always time if you want to fine tune things or add a little more.
If you are prone to dry or chapped lips, please use lip balm in the run up to the shoot and bring some along with you. Don’t worry about spots or pimples; ‘transitory blemishes’ are easily removed in Photoshop. Please do not try to hide them with concealer or make-up.
Hair - please don't have it cut especially for the session, it might look a little too neat & tidy and run the risk you feel self-conscious. If you have long hair, we'll take shots with your hair up and down as it often makes a huge difference to your appearance and casting age. It’s good for Spotlight & your Portfolio to capture both.
Men – do you want to shoot clean shaven or with some growth? It’s no problem to shave halfway through the shoot if you want to capture both looks.
Finally... try and get a good night's sleep before the session and make sure you are hydrated. Don't over think the session, just relax, listen to directions and enjoy yourself.
I hope this prep sheet has been useful, but please don't hesitate to ask any questions; either call me or use my Contact Page here
Cheers
