If it were up to me, all actors would pick the “Pro” package. One of the most common questions I get from them is: “How many looks should I do?” Sure, you could do a simple 2 look session, but unless you’re a seasoned actor who REALLY knows what looks you need, I’d suggest taking advantage of The Pro. This way you can focus on a wider variety of looks in terms of character types, wardrobe, and backgrounds.

Recently I did a Pro session with actor Samantha. When she booked she explained how she had just finished school and was getting back into acting. This time around she would be fully committed and wanted to begin her journey with a great set of new headshots. It had been years since had an update so I recommend the Pro package so she’s get plenty of options.

For Samantha’s session she wanted to capture an edgy/femme fatale character, a commercial look, something a bit sultry but serious, and, with her being ethnically ambiguous, a look that would play up her actual ethnicity (Puerto Rican). Way too many looks for your average 2 look session right?

Samantha was great to work with. She took my preparation tips to heart and came prepared with perfect outfits for her shoot. Nothing complex, just simple and flattering clothing. Since the weather was cooperating with us, we did 3 of her looks outdoors and the final look inside just to create some visual variety.

Badass, femme fatale look. Check the leather.

The first look was her edgy/femme fatale look. Leather jacket, serious expression. Some think an edgy character has to look mean or angry, but a simple “blank” expression works well too! And of course, clothing can strengthen the message.

Commercial headshot that radiates positivity, confidence, and just a fun personality. Could see this one in college recruitment marketing material.

The second look was a commercial, girl next door/college student type look. Samantha selected a perfect striped top that wasn’t too distracting and really played up the youthful vibe we were going for. The smile nails it and I could see the final image being used for a college recruitment pamphlet.

Serious and sultry. With a dose of dark.

Our third look was a more sultry, serious look. Think dramatic show on TNT. This young woman is beautiful and alluring, but also is hiding something dark. We chose a nearby green brick wall that added to the more darker nature of the character type along with a more intense expression. Her gaze looks very observant as if she’s studying her next victim. Muhahahaha! ;-)

Brilliant styling by Samatha to play up her unique features.

The last image Samantha decided to style her hair and wardrobe a bit different and go with something that would make her Puerto Rican background more noticeable. She remarked how she often gets mistaken for being a number of other ethnicities and didn’t want to be passed up for roles that were actually calling for actors of her background. As crazy as it sounds, it’s quite a common occurrence in the industry.

Even in an ever changing industry that’s embracing diversity, it’s still sometimes necessary to play up our unique traits a bit as it may be difficult for casting directors to make those connections.

Looking at all her images you get a great sense of Samantha’s range, if you were a casting director. For her, she now has options to choose from in the event a particular role pops up that matches the looks we captured. An indie film is casting a femme fatale lead? She has a headshot for it. Maybe a soft drink company is looking for young college types to promote their new energy drink? She has that covered too.

See how versatile the Pro package is? 4 Looks should cover all your bases and give you plenty of options throughout the year.

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Why The PRO Package is the Best Choice for Actors