If you're a budding actor, about to embark on your first Headshot session, you may like to know there's a difference between corporate and actors Headshots.

Here's a quick over-view of what you need for the screen, the stage . . . for Hollywood!

Firstly, it is absolutely imperative an Actor’s image is up to date and, as a rule, visit their Photographer at least once a year.

Always work with a Professional Photographer, as a poor-quality Headshot indicates the actor is not serious about the business.  Sadly, even if they’re considered the next Lawrence Olivier, they won’t make it to the auditions.

Furthermore the opinion that a good headshot will last you for years is especially inappropriate. Who naturally remains the same for years?

A Casting Director's job is to find the right person who not only acts the part but looks the part too. First impressions really do count. Imagine submitting a Headshot with long hair and a beard, only to show up clean-shaven with cropped hair! Chances are, you’ll have missed the mark before you even open your mouth.

Casting Directors are incredibly busy, and they rely on Headshots being accurate and up to date. An actor is very unlikely to land a role based on how they used to look.

That’s why any actor worth their salt will research what a particular Casting Director expects to see in a headshot - and make sure their portfolio matches. Your Headshot is your calling card; it needs to tell the right story at the right time.

As photographers we have rules and opinions to contend with, and as you know, opinions vary. However, let’s have a look at some of the essential requirements: 

• As with any Headshot, the head is crucial, therefore no props, no hands and no distracting backgrounds.
• Casting Directors require a natural look with little or no makeup.
  
• Black and white Headshots are acceptable in this country, however it is not the same across the pond.  For anyone wanting to break into Hollywood, the USA consider them to be outdated.
  
• The standard image size is 8″ × 10″.

Overall, from our perspective, an actor’s Headshot requires a white background with focus on the eyes, whilst paying attention to those facial micro-features.

Look your best, be your best and show yourself at your best! 

Oliver, in the main shot, joined us for an amazing dance photoshoot with his dance partner Annabelle - see it here!

Ready for your own headshot? Reach out at 07790 753852 or send us a message via our contact us page