Acting Headshot Guide | Tips for Actors

First of all, if you’ve already got headshots and you’re not getting work, it could be that you have a bad headshot…

Your headshot is the most important marketing tool you have as an actor/actress – more so than most other careers.  Cutting corners on quality will equate to you not making the cut. When a casting director is plowing through stacks of images you want your shot to make them say, “get that person in here!” So take your headshot seriously and invest your money there instead of in your wardrobe.

The most important calling card that you’ll use time & time again is a simple 8×10 of your face. If this headshot looks bad, so will you.  You need to be sure you look professional if you want to be taken seriously and a striking, good quality headshot is a must.

Here’s our shortlist of tips for actor headshots:

• Go easy on the makeup – 

There’s no need to use lots of makeup for acting headshots because agents and casting directors want to see the authentic you, as you are on a good day. A few random pimples and removing stray hairs can be dealt with by retouching but even that must be kept to a minimum.  It’s important that when you show up in person you look like the same person in the headshot!  The image isn’t about looking pretty, it needs to represent your “type” – wrinkles, freckles, or crooked nose and all. So, be yourself, do hair and makeup like you would to go to an audition. Make sure you feel comfortable and confident.

• Keep clothing simple – 

You don’t have to go crazy here and display the latest styles, it’s not about the clothes and you don’t want them to take attention over your face.  A simple solid shirt with a little bit of texture that fits you well is always a classy choice.  Choose neutral colors that look good with your skin tone or match your eyes. No whites, graphics, or bold patterns that might distract from your face, and absolutely no props! These aren’t high school senior portraits.

• Framing –

 Generally, a good headshot has framed the person from the chest up. Often times the very top of the head is cropped to bring more attention to the eyes.  You can get a little closer if you like but don’t bother with extreme close-ups and don’t pose with your hands around your face.  If you make the first cut you’ll also want to have a good full-body shot to submit on request so if you have the budget invest in a photography package that includes more than a single headshot.  Lighting should be flattering without strong shadows on the face.

• Lighting –

 Natural light and studio light are both great options. Either way, just make sure it’s flattering soft light on the face without strong dramatic shadows.  Also important is to be sure there’s a glint of light in the eyes. Without that sparkle, your eyes will appear dead.  This small highlight is created by the light source used and ensures that your eyes are full of life and energy.

• Background –

 Again outdoor and studio backdrops can both make excellent options. Just be sure that the background is blurred out of focus so that you’ll stand out against it. The image is about you and nobody cares if you’re standing on the beach or in front of a beautiful mountain.  Also, make sure there aren’t any bright spots, colors, or patterns that distract from your face.

• Choose a Pro –

 Invest in an experienced headshot photographer on Oahu. Someone who understands what you need is trained, knows to light, and takes headshots for a living. Not just any friend with a good eye and an iPhone. You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 – $1200 for a professional session and printing. Remember if the price is too cheap the images will probably look cheap too and that will reflect poorly on you.  Find a photographer that vibes with you and you feel comfortable around. Take the time to look around, check their portfolios,  and ask questions.

Your actor headshot needs to represent you at your best and show that you take yourself seriously so don’t skimp on the quality of your image!