Taking Your Best Headshot

First, you need to choose a photographer. You should try to speak with your potential photographer to establish a rapport with them. Would you feel comfortable working with them? Ask to see some of their work and make your decision based on these two factors. The photographer will probably require a deposit to book a date, with the balance due the day of the shoot.

Next, you need to choose your outfit. Ask the photographer for suggestions, but in general you should bring several changes. Make sure they are well-pressed and clean with no visible threads or stains. Avoid white or very light-colored shirts for your headshot. White draws the eye. Dark or midtones are better and will draw attention to your face. Don't use wild or big prints. For guys, a solid shirt with a collar is best. Besides keeping the attention focused on your face, a solid shirt is easier to drop type onto (your name). For women, wear a scoop or collared shirt. Try to choose a neckline most flattering to your face.

Make sure your hair is a good length and not scraggly. If in doubt, have someone take a polaroid of you before your shoot and ask your agent to critique it. Guys should be clean-shaven (unless you are going for the scruffy look). Don't make any drastic hair style changes or cuts right before your shoot. Hair should be in a style that is easily obtainable. Simple is better. Women and girls should generally wear hear loose and down for a headshot. You have to be able to look like your headshot when you go to a casting.

A few days before the shoot, you should avoid alcohol and drink plenty water so you will look your best. Make sure you are well-rested, and avoid the sun. Men will probably need base, concealer, and powder for the shoot. It is best to obtain your own so it is specially matched to your skin tone. Guys shouldn't need a make-up artist, however. For women, make-up should be clean and natural. The idea is to look your best without looking like you have make-up on. Matte finish is best; no heavily overlined lips or eyes; no shiny eyeshadows or powders for black and white headshots. You can do your own makeup if you feel comfortable; or, you can have the photographer refer a make-up artist that he/she likes to work with.

Don't be tempted to ask the photographer to make you look ten years younger. When you go to a casting, the director has to be able to identify you as the person in the photo. So, you need to be able to look like your headshot. Your photo should be a flattering, yet realistic portrayal of you.

If possible, remove any jewelry for your shoot; no necklaces, bracelets or watches. No earrings on guys; but, for women, small studs in the ears are ok. Remember, you want people to notice your face - not your jewelry.

On the day of your shoot, arrive on time or early. Relax, and try to have fun. Listen to your photographer, and if you have any questions, or you don't understand his/her direction, ask. After the shoot, try to review the proofs with the photographer if possible. They can help you choose your best look. Also, you can get other opinions - your agent, a casting director you know, or your acting coach. Good luck!

Thanks, Christine Rose