- It must be 8x10 photo. (common knowledge)
- The picture should show at least from shoulders and above, but it is acceptable to cut off the crown of the head to pull focus to your eyes.
- Horizontal headshots are acceptable, but inconvenient to be stapled and flipped through, therefore not suggested.
- Black and white headshots are out as color printing is much more affordable now.
- For the stage, only 2 shots are needed: one for comedy and one for tragedy acting. For film and television, an array of different shots will be needed to show different sides of you and what you can play.
- For a dramatic headshot, you don't have to put on a dramatic frown. You could have a smirk, just make sure you have thought behind your eyes. To achieve this, have a thought in character while shooting.
- Have a blurred background that gives an idea of who you are. If you are a student, show something that hints at a school or library- just make sure it does not take away from the main point of the headshot- YOU!
- Do not wear solid black, white, or red because this messes with the balance of the camera. Wear something that goes well with your hair, eyes, and skin tone.
Finding your photographer:
- Preferably, they should be a Headshot Photographer. If you go to someone who does school portraits, that is what you will get even though that is not what you want. The next best thing is a senior picture photographer, as that world is getting more artsy as well as the headshot world.
- Pricing should typically be between $200-500 dollars for FULL PACKAGE. Some big names could charge more, but not be worth more. FULL PACKAGE means that it includes the consultation, shoot, initial photos, and most importantly- printing rights. If a photographer doesn't give you the rights to your photo so that you can print it yourself, then every single time you want to make a print you have to do it through that company which can turn out to be very expensive.
- Get someone you are comfortable with! If you are going to spend hours taking pictures with someone you are not comfortable with, it will show through on the photo.
I have one more post left in my ITS Workshop series and then I'll be on to the Seussification of Romeo and Juliet!
Break A Leg,
Maison
