Consider your headshot a visual resume. What do casting
directors want to see? You might be surprised at the answers. Casting directors are most often on
the hunt to cast natural looking people rather than glamorous or
extremely pretty people. Good looking is not a bad thing, and there is a need in the industry for those actors as well. However, if you aren't that typical beauty but can act, and can do well in an audition, you are set - especially with a
headshot that truly represents your look.
Will a bad headshot prevent you from working? Probably not,
but it might prevent an agent from sending your headshot to clients because
they don’t think you can book. That means working a lot less than you could.
Now why do that to yourself?
Finding the right photographer is key. That doesn’t mean the
most expensive one either. These Dos and Don’ts are listed to give you a better
idea of what to look for in a photographer and will up your chances of a better
headshot. Remember, there's a lot of competition out there and a better headshot could put you in front of the line.
DON’Ts: If a photographer wants to use any of these
techniques, beware
DON’T go for the glamorous look, or lighting that is
drastically lit or extremely shadowy. The shot should look natural and reveal your
confidence as an actor.
DON’T dress in character. Sure you might play the best punk
rocker ever, but don’t dress like one at the photo shoot. Look like yourself.
DON’T touch up your photos. Casting directors want to see
what you look like. If you see a surprised look on their faces, you’ve blown it
simply because you look nothing like your headshot. Worse yet, your agent will
hear about it, and won’t send you out again until you’ve renewed your headshot.
DON’T rest your hand under your chin or it will look like
amateur night.
DON’T go black and white.
Please DO these:
DO order color headshots. Black is so two years ago.
DO smile. Everyone looks better with a smile on their face.
So smile, and show your teeth too.
DO update your headshot if your appearance changes. For
example, you dye your hair, grow a beard or cut your hair. Casting directors
aren’t often pleased seeing a blonde when they’ve requested a brunette.
Agencies won’t send your headshot and that means fewer auditions, fewer call
backs and fewer bookings. Again, why do that to yourself?
DO update your headshot if your booking category has
changed. For example, you’ve aged and are no longer a teen, so a card that
represents you as a 20-year-old would sell your skills much better.
DO ask your agency for advice as they can recommend
photographers who will do a great job and won’t charge too much. They can also
help you pick the shots that will best market your skills. Remember, the agent
knows what talent is booking. Just make sure the photographer is not in-house or that the agency is not receiving a kickback for the referral. Agencies should not be involved with photographers, but they are familiar with the work of some of the best in the market. Use their knowledge for the good of your headshot.
Remember too that you are constantly changing over the years. It's the nature of life. Don't deny the change but work with it. Embrace your new look, new wrinkle and new category. And get some new photos while you are at it!