Headshot Tips : Bradford's Advice for Actors on How to Prepare for a Headshot Session

Article by Photographer & Make-up Artist Bradford Rogne

Have a plan!
So many actors show up for their headshot session unprepared. Not only is it a big investment, but as an actor, your headshots will be the key piece of marketing that will the instrumental force in generating new opportunities.

What's your casting? Do a little research and find out how you fit into the casting marketplace. What roles are you most likely to be cast in? Reflect those character types within the looks you shoot, during your headshot session.

Will you be auditioning for Commercials, TV, Film, and Stage? Knowing what you will be auditioning for is essential for creating a game-plan for your headshot session. A commercial headshot can be very different than a headshot used for stage, or a dramatic tv or film role. Know the differences and be aware of them when discussing your headshot needs with your photographer.

Dress the part! Not only should you embody specific character types throughout your photo session, but also you should use your wardrobe to reflect them as well. Headshots in Los Angeles need to be very specific, geared directly towards the role you are submitting for. This can be a deal breaker when a casting director is looking though hundreds of photos online.

Wardrobe!
Bring it all, plan it out, and have everything organized. You should plan your outfits according to the different looks you're planning to shoot. Have extra options on hand, just in case something doesn't work out. Use layering to create depth in your outfits. Incorporate bold color, as well as nuetral tones within our wardrobe options.

What's a "Look"?
This is one of the most commonly asked questions from an actor when booking a headshot session. A "Look" is a simple way of referring to a wardobe change, in addition to the background you'll be shooting against with it. Examples of different looks would be: Girl Next Door, CSI Detective, Leading man, or "Quirky". If you let your imagination run with this a little, I'm sure you can see how different the wardrobe for each of these looks could be, as well as the surroundings for each of them.

Make a playlist! Bring your own tunes, and ask the photographer to turn up the volume! Not everyone has a playlist like mine, so don't count on being thrilled with someone else's musical selections. I have a ipod connection at my studio, so I encourage my clients to make a playlist about 2-3 hours long of their favorite upbeat tunes, and so we can rock it out!

If you have an agent or manager, GET THEIR input! Your representation will most likely have lots and lots of opinions, so it's best to get them BEFORE you spend the time and money on new headshots. I think it's crazy when actors decide to "surprise" their representation with new photos. You'll most likely end up back at the photo studio, shooting more of what your agent wished you would have gotten the first time around.

The value of hiring a Make-up Artist for your headshots: I'm sure you've had an acting teacher, or a fellow actor tell you to do your own make-up and hair for your headshots. They'll tell you that it's the only way to ensure you'll look like yourself, and you want to look the same in your photos, as you do when you show up at your auditions. I can understand the rational behind this, but there's more to the equation. Will you be doing your own make-up and hair when you land that big role on CSI, or star in that huge film directed by Martin Scorsese. Chances are, the answer will be NO. It's important to look your best, and present yourself professionally. You can still play a part in the make-up and hair process, even if you have someone else do it for you. Even as a collaboration, it's better than leaving your presentation to chance. Having someone on hand to make sure you're looking your best, will give you the opportunity to focus your energy on taking better photos. I myself am a photographer, as well as an experienced make-up artist, so when shooting with me, you can have it all!

Do guys need make-up? In my opinion, yes they do. As a male actor, you'll most definitely wear make-up on any commercial, film, or television set. And your headshots shouldn't be the exception. Fortunately for my MALE clients, I'm an experienced make-up artist as well, and offer this to them at no charge. Men typically don't need much make-up, so it's easy for me, and a value for my male clients.

Pets and photo shoots don't mix. Unless your adorable doggie is making a camio in your headshots, pets are best left at home. You're focus will be split, while attempting to keep your furry friend out of mischief. You need to focus on the task at hand, without distractions. This also applies to bringing friends that act like animals :-)

For more information on me, please visit my website at www.PhotosLA.com, or call my studio directly at (213) 629-7488

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