So You Want Great Headshots (5 pointers to think about)

1)Choose wisely. 

First things first choose your photographer wisely. I have so often in conversation had people ask me to take pictures for them before they have even seen my work. Of course I would never make it a habit to turn down work but I always advise potential clients to take a moment to look through my work. It is truly important that you see the work of the photographer you choose to create your headshots. There is no real right or wrong way to do it but thier style should fit witht the way you want to represent yourself. See if your photographerpecializes in a specific type of portrait or if they are more versatile.

2)Personality is important.

Remember that you are getting your headshots done with the intent of aquiring work using these images. As a model or actor it is important to have your individual personality shine through. There are many aproaches to this but most importantly remember that the photographer can only work with what you bring to the table. If you are incredibly dull and lifeless that will show in the images just as strongly as if you are vibrant and energetic. What type of message do you want your headshots to communicate.

 

3)What kind of work do you want.

Keep in mind what kind of work you are trying to get. Do you want to do theater, film, or commercial work? Are you comedic, dramatic, universal. Are you a specific type of charachter or are you an open pallete. These things have the potential to affect the way that you want to be seen. If you are a comedic actor you would want your headshots to have an air of levity. A dramatic portrait would not necessarily be the best choice for you.

4)It's all about the eyes.

Of course your smile is important, too, but the eyes can make or break your picture. They are refered to as the windows to the soul for a reason.Your eyes give you the opportunity to show the layers in your personality. Rather than thinking about the viewer looking at your picture, think about you looking at the viewer. A direct and intentional look into the lens is like making direct eye contact with whoever views your headshot, and we all know the power of direct eye contact.

5)Keep it simple.

Clothing, makeup, hair, and even expression are generally best when simple. The more complex something is in a composition the more it draws atention away from the focal point. If the essence of you is the focal point the last ting you want to do is draw your viewers attention away from is you. You want to draw them in!