Tips for better headshots

Hereby some tips to make your next headshots session go smoothly with a result that will have casting directors call you into their office!

• Get professional headshots taken. Your friend with an iPhone camera doesn’t cut it. And get them professionally printed. It doesn’t pay to get good photo’s taken and then printed on regular paper. Make sure the whole package is professional.
• Take it easy on the airbrushing. Your headshot should look like you on your best day. Make sure its a current photo and not one that’s 10 years old.
• Your eyes are the most important thing in a headshot. Next time you’re brushing your teeth, take a few extra minutes and practice your facial expressions. The better you know you own expressions the easier it is when your in front of the camera. You can practice with different thoughts and feelings. Thinking of different backstories for your character. Just tilting your head a little bit or squinting your eyes can make a huge job.
  The focus of a good headshot is on the eyes. Normally, the shot is chest up with the lighting on your face. When shooting for print a three-quarter shot will do the job. A headshot is about you and not the environment, so that can stay out of focus. It does not matter where you are.

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• Headshots with natural light give a more real ‘film’ look and studio has a more polished and neutral look. Depending on what kind of actor you are; pick a photographer that specializes in one or can do both.
• Don’t bring props to your headshot session. Unless you want a character shot for your stand up set, headshots should look like you, natural. If you think you’re great to play a chef, you do not have to wear the full outfit.
• Keep your look natural. A headshot should look like you on your best day, not night out. So don’t overdo it with make up. Hair and make up should enhance your best features not drastically change your look.