I know the title of this post is a bit simplistic, but sometimes simple is the most effective way to communicate! Okay, so how does one take a great actor headshot? And what IS a great actor headshot?
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Recently I a shoot with repeat actor client, Eden Zane. It had been, I believe, two years since we last shot together and he needed some updated headshots to take his acting in a new direction. He's a funny, nerdy guy in real life and wanted that to come across in his headshots.
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One of the big tips I give to actors getting their headshots done for the first time, is to make sure your headshots don't make you look "green". We do this not only with effective styling, but by also capturing a strong, confident expression. I believe a casting director shouldn't be able to tell if you just started acting yesterday from your headshot. We don't want to give them any reason to reject you. If they think you're inexperienced just from looking at your headshot, we've failed.
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This is a question I get asked quite often. In my experience, the absolute best place to have your headshots printed is Reproductions, especially for my New York Headshot clients. Located in Midtown, Reproductions provides printing, retouching, and even demo reel services. When it comes to printing you can't discredit the use of a professional lab to handle your work. For headshots this is vitally important as the print you hand a casting director can often make or break your first impression. No point in spending hundreds of dollars on those awesome headshots, only to skimp out on getting quality prints done.
Read MoreSo you're in the market for professional headshots in NYC? You've taken a look at samples of my actor headshots or corporate headshots and you're about ready to book your session. But how many looks do you need? Well, it depends on what your focus is and where you are currently in your career. Both my actor and business clients have very specific needs and I always look to cater sessions to fit their unique needs. Deciding on the number of looks beforehand will ensure you're getting the most out of your shoot.
How many looks does an actor need?
For actors, two Looks is what I consider the absolute minimal for professional headshots in NYC. Actors need to showcase their versatility(or type) and are often going out for a variety of roles. It helps if you have two headshots to choose from when you get ready to send your headshot out or attend a casting. Depending on the role you're going out for, one of your headshots may serve you better than the other. If you only have one, you'll be extremely limited. I want you to succeed, so two looks is what I'd recommend as an absolute minimum.
Ah, New York Headshots versus headshots in Los Angeles. Working as a headshot photographer for the past 6 years, I've learned there are big differences between what are considered acceptable actor headshots in NYC and what is considered acceptable in Los Angeles.
Acting headshots in New York tend to primarily focus on you. YOUR personality and how you come across in your headshot. Are you bubbly, silly, serious, handsome, sexy, etc. Wardrobe, while important, isn't a primary factor and should only be used to enhance what is unique about your personality. For instance, if you're a handsome, yet edgy type of guy, a plaid shirt and glasses may not help that come across to a casting director. Alternatively, if you're a sexy femme fatale, dressing like a young mom will make sure your headshot falls flat. For the most part, simple tops, pants, and wardrobe that doesn't distract from you is all that's really required. The important thing is for your headshot to look like you and everything else gets out of the way to help you achieve that goal.
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