Acting Tips and Acting Articles
- Consult experienced professional actors whom you trust and whose head shots get them auditions. Find out which photographers they recommend and trust.
- Call at least three different photographers and ask the following questions: Do they include a makeup and hair artist in the package? What is the price? Research prices in your market so you have an idea.
- Set up an appointment to visit the photographer and view his or her portfolio.
- Make sure the head shots in the portfolio include types of people like you. For example, if you’re African-American, does the photographer shoot African-Americans well? If you’re a character actor, does this photographer cover that style professionally?
- Chat with the photographer to find out if you two have a comfortable rapport. If you don’t feel relaxed and comfortable, that will come across in your head shots.
- Choose a photographer and make an appointment to shoot. Allow approximately 2 hours for the session if you’re having your makeup and hair done there. If you wish to bring a professional makeup person with you, schedule that person as well.
- Arrive 15 minutes early on the day of the session.
- Bring two changes of clothes, if desired: one top for your casual, smiling, commercial shot, and another for your serious, dramatic, theatrical shot. Remember that some photographers charge per “look.”
- Expect the photographer to print the lithographs for you, and ask to have your name clearly printed on the front of each shot.
- Have your resume printed on the back of each head shot, or staple your resume to the back.
- Make sure your head shots really look like you. Casting directors require this.
- Many photographers will tell you to wear a simple shirt, avoiding black, white and patterns. Ask your photographer what you should wear.
- If you prefer, you can have your makeup and hair done before you arrive for the photo session. In this case, the photo shoot may only take 15 to 30 minutes.
- Make sure there is a money-back or reshoot guarantee if the photographer makes a mistake with the lighting or the film. However, don’t expect the photographer to reshoot for free simply because you don’t like the photos.
- Check the photographer’s references; never go to secluded apartments or areas unaccompanied by a friend.
- Do not rush into having your picture taken. Research photographers and photo labs thoroughly.
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