Headshot photography may seem simple. It is just the one person sitting or standing still. All you need is your camera and a headshot photographer to help you. That all may be true but for many, it can be a stressful situation.
The art of taking magnificent actor headshots goes beyond just photographic clicks. Taking a professional headshot to convey the impression you want to send is difficult. Many things need to be considered when you take acting headshots.
That is why we are sharing some expert tips on how to take a professional headshot. So keep on reading to the end if you want to up your portfolio with some dazzling headshot photographs.
What is a Headshot?
A headshot is a type of photography that focuses on a person’s face and shoulders to create a professional image. The goal is to capture your personality and expressions in the best light.
These shots are often used for professional purposes like websites or your portfolio. You can send your actor headshot to agencies or casting directors who will cast you in the perfect role.
Why Actors Need a Headshot
One of the first things that an actor does before going on auditions is getting acting headshots. When you get a professionally done actor headshot you will be able to leave it with casting directors for every audition you attend. Here are some reasons why an actor will need acting headshots:
- A Resume Must-have
Method actors or models, their first asset is their face. And this needs to have in-your-face (pun intended) representation in the casting agency’s office. So, an actor’s resume should definitely include professional headshots. Actors typically attach their resumes and contact information back to back on their actor headshots.
- Great First Impression
Actor headshots help casting directors remember their favorite actors by leaving a first impression allowing them to cast each role perfectly. Sure, you have great acting chops and have won the genetic lottery. But guess who else does? Literally thousands that traipse and preen through casting calls. A portfolio of versatile actor headshots will make you stand out.
- Showcasing versatility
Speaking of which, your headshots are not just for the casting agents to be caught up by your beauty. Sure, that’s one of its purposes. But the real goal is to make them fall in love. And how do you do that? By showing how expressive you are. Capture a variety of emotions in your headshots. Look happy, worried, sad. These will help casting agents understand which roles you will best portray.
- Current representation
Going to a casting agency is much like going on a first date off a dating app. It will not make a good first impression if you uploaded pictures from ten years ago. An updated portfolio of actor headshots will show exactly how you look at the present moment. Remember, you will not be called by the agent just like that; you will get the call based on a current role that needs to be cast. Recent headshots will help agents find the role that best suits your face.
- Act as a business card
As we mentioned before, an actor’s face is the first thing the casting agent will notice. A set of high-quality acting headshots will act as a calling card. Quite literally, as actors would leave their names and contact details on the back of these pictures in the days of yore. But metaphorically too; expressive headshots in good lighting help get you noticed. When sifting through hundreds of pretty pictures, a candid, eloquent face will stand out.
Another photography type that serves a similar purpose is a portrait. Let’s list down the differences so you know which one to choose.
Headshots and Portraits: What is the Difference?
Actors who are trying to get a break in the entertainment world will definitely need both. Although similar, there are some distinctions:
- Purpose
The primary purpose of a good headshot is to showcase the person’s face and features professionally.
On the other hand, a portrait is to capture the essence of the subject more artistically and expressively.
A nice actor headshot will showcase exactly what you look like. Its job is to portray your features in the best way possible.
- Composition
Headshot sessions typically focus on the face and shoulders. Portraits can feature the entire body or just the upper half.
Remember, the job of the headshot is to show the features of your face. The portrait is telling a story. The first will have minimal shadows so that your features are prominent. The latter will convey a particular message.
- Setting
Actor headshots are often taken in a studio-like environment. But portraits can be captured in various locations, such as outdoors, at the subject’s home, or in an open office setting.
A headshot does not have the scope of using props or backgrounds. There is nothing that can take the focus away from your face.
A portrait will tell a tale, so it is free to use elaborate backgrounds and props that will help in this process.
- Style
Acting headshots have a more professional and straightforward look. It aims to be pleasant and approachable. It will convey only one message.
Meanwhile, portraits can be more artistic and expressive, showcasing the subject in different poses and settings. Its goal is to bring out the story the actor wishes to tell.
Tips for Taking the Perfect Headshot
Enough of the basics! Learn the most effective acting headshot photography tips from expert headshot photographers worldwide. These tips will surely help you to improve your job of photo session:
- Decide what you want in the headshot
The first step to any new headshots should be to have a clear idea of what you are looking for. This will stage for all of the decisions you will make going forward.
Ideally, actor headshots should be the truest representation of who they are. So, you need to take a variety of capturing different moods.
- Emote, emote, emote
Headshots are close-ups. Your entire face will be on camera at close range. But you know who will steal the show? Your eyes. There’s a lot of truth in the whole ‘eyes are the windows to the soul’ adage, and a headshot will capture that perfectly. Your headshot will show your versatility, and your eyes are your weapon. Express a range of emotions with your peepers- from anger to indifference to passion.
- Be real
An actor headshot is not about getting the best angle, it is about displaying your type in the most accurate way possible. Easy with the airbrushing and the glamour shots; you need to present the authentic you- crow’s feet and all. Casting agents will not be happy if you show up looking like a future version of your headshot; you must look exactly like your real self, only in acute detail.
- Go easy on the makeup
Which brings us to another common challenge: makeup. As antithetical as it might sound, stay minimal. A professional headshot photographer will capture you in high-quality cameras in intense lighting. A thick layer of makeup will distract from the true features of your face. Apply makeup that is lightweight and able to enhance your features.
- Do nothing crazy
A casting agent receives thousands of actor headshots a day. You will be tempted to attempt to stand out, and rightly so. But it doesn’t help to go overboard with this idea. Overt flamboyance will overwhelm the true calling card- your face. Let your expressions do the talking; don’t let props become the main character.
- Wear neutral clothing
You might have a favorite role that gave you the acting bug. But you don’t want to remind the casting agents of that. Dress like you normally would for an interview. A clean, simple shirt in neutral colors is good enough. Bright colors will take the focus away from your face.
- Plan for Black and White
Add some monochrome headshots to your portfolio. Black and white photos are classy, and a good way to stand out. For this, you need to wear colors that capture well in these photos. Greens and blues are good choices.
- Accessorize Minimally
The focus should be on your face. Go for minimal accessories- ideally one or two. Style your hair and makeup as you would for a professional setting.
- Choose the right lighting
You don’t necessarily need a studio backdrop to capture your headshots. In fact, it is best if you go for a mix and match of indoor and outdoor locations. While studio light is great for close-up photos, natural lighting will soften your features.
- Pick the correct location
Backgrounds for actor headshots can span from actual backgrounds in a studio to pretty much any indoor or outdoor setting. The location is unimportant but the elements make a great commercial headshot which is pretty consistent.
Your background should not be distracting. So opt for
- Plain colored walls
- Empty space
- Stairwells
- Any other location with neutral colors
- Master headshot posing
Pose for natural and professional headshot sessions. These will capture your personality and leave a lasting impression on the agents.
- Pose is Important
Remember to keep a good posture with your shoulders back and chest out. This will ensure a professional and polished look. Keep your chin slightly down and face forward to avoid an awkward angle.
- Move a Little
Camera shyness can strike everyone. Get comfortable with some simple movements. You can walk towards the camera or have a casual conversation. This will help you to ease up and have candid expressions.
- Capture a Genuine Smile
Avoid forced smiles. A good trick is to look away until just before clicking the shot. This will allow for a natural and relaxed look when you turn back to the camera.
- Don’t Forget Good Composition
You cannot just ignore the basics of composition just because professional headshots are simple. Remember the subject of your composition is your face.
- Use a shallow depth of field
Don’t lean against the wall or backdrop. Using a shallow depth of field will allow you to blur the background subtly making the subject pop out of the image.
- The Rule of the Third
It also applies to great headshot photography. Stand a little off the center to effectively create multiple images from the frame just by cropping it.
- Camera Equipment
There are no specific equipment requirements for a headshot photo. But a good headshot photographer will definitely want a high-quality lens offering a nice bokeh.
A DSLR camera offers excellent image quality and control over shots. Look for choices of a focal length of 50mm or longer.
500 mm-80 mm range is ideal for a headshot as it allows for a comfortable working distance.
Lenses with even longer focal lengths can further enhance the bokeh effect creating a dramatic blur. You can also use a 50mm lens for a natural and familiar look.
- Lighting setup for headshot photography
Lighting is your next biggest concern. Most actor headshots are high key meaning they are bright and evenly lit with few deep shadows.
You will want to have the light set up above you and add some fill from below to reduce shadows. You can also use studio light from the above and fill right on each side of the camera.
- Matching the Light to Your Vision
Light is not just about technical aspects. Consider your personality and desired image. Backlighting or strong shadows can convey drama or mystery. Soft light can create a more approachable and friendly feel.
- Retouching Technique
Photo retouching is often used to improve the subject’s features while preserving a natural appearance. This can involve smoothing the skin to even out tone and reduce blemishes.
As well as adjusting color balance to enhance the overall visual appeal. You must be careful; you need to enhance the individual’s unique characteristics in professional headshots.
Conclusion
A set of good actor headshots will go a long way in boosting your confidence in the competitive acting arena. You must get these photographs if you wish to make your mark as an actor. Get in touch with top headshot photographers. They are key to helping your career grow to dizzying heights.
