TORONTO ACTORS GUIDE TO NEW HEADSHOTS
A Guide To New Actors
If you're an actor, you should know that the first step to getting into the industry is to have your headshots done. But if you're new to this and are confused about what you should be doing or how to do it then you should probably keep reading.
Headshots are the first thing that a casting director is going to look at when you are trying to audition or applying for a position. So it's important to make sure you make a good impression with those headshots. So you're going to want to get these done professionally, which might sound intimidating, but it isn't as bad as you might think it is. Photographers are very friendly people, it's part of their job to make sure you are comfortable in their care. While it is understandable if you are uncomfortable with having your photos taken, rest assured that you'll get used to it very quickly.
What To Do In a Shoot
What To Wear
You should definitely wear something that is neutral, something like a plaid button up and a nice pair of jeans, or a simple dress. Nothing that makes a statement, because you want to show the casting directors your most neutral state where you are the most you as you are in public.
About Makeup
If you plan on wearing makeup, don't wear too much, just some concealer and a light lipstick should be enough and remember to let your eyes shine as they are the most important part of your headshots. You can work with your photographer on this point.
Accessories And Background
You want to keep your background neutral and not too distracting and avoid props or any unnecessary pieces of clothing like hats or sunglasses.
Photo editing
Make sure that your photographer isn't touching up your photos too much, like if they want to airbrush some pictures or edit out any wrinkles or moles, don't let them. You want to keep your photos as genuine as possible. Just present yourself as your genuine self on a normal day.
Have Variety
If you are someone who you think could work well in many different types of roles, then you should present yourself as such. Bring a change of clothes and outfits which can portray you in a variety of ways. This will show casting directors that you have a wide range which will likely increase your chances of getting considered by them. But remember that the earlier suggestion of not doing too much on your photos still apply, show range with subtlety.
What You Should Do With Your Photos
Touching up some of your photos may be necessary, just keep in mind that you don't want to change your appearance, just if there are any parts of your photos that you think might need to be changed like; a fly in the frame, an unexpected object in the background or if you just need to adjust some settings with the photo. In terms of filters, the only filter you might want to use is black and white, and even that isn't necessary. Casting directors are mostly happy with color photos but if you think you have a really good black and white photo, it won't hurt to put that in.
Where You Should Shoot
Most of the time, you will probably shoot inside a studio with proper equipment and lighting, but if there is another spot where you think would be better to shoot in, make sure that you let your photographer know and that they can get there with their equipment safely.
When To Renew Your Headshots
Nobody looks the same for too long so of course, you should renew your headshots every once in a while. But when is “once in a while”? Some photographers recommend you redo them every 2-3 years, Unless something about your appearance has changed that you think would warrant a change sooner than that.
Relationship With Photographers
You should definitely try to have a good relationship with your photographer. Don't worry, it's not like they won't try, they probably will because it's part of their job to make sure you, the client, are comfortable while being photographed. But it's always good to reciprocate and make sure they're having a good time as well. As mentioned before, they are going to help you get the best photos possible, whether that's by helping with some makeup or helping pick which outfit works best for you, they are there to help you. So don't be afraid to accept their help as they likely know what they're doing. Make sure you're not asking too much of them and that you aren't annoying them which will only make both of your days worse, and they can charge you more which is good to try and avoid.
Conclusion
To summarize, or if you just skipped to the end to get the cliffnotes; wear something neutral with a neutral background and neutral makeup (if you wear any). Don't edit your photos too much the more natural you appear, the better. Have some options with your wardrobe, you want to show you have range and that you can mold and change into any role that they might need you in. renew your headshots every 2-3 years, or if something happened where you think you might need to renew it before that. Have a good relationship with your photographer which can lead to a more fun photoshoot, better photos and maybe even a photographer friend. Good luck to all you new actors and anyone else who may have found this article helpful.
