About Head Shots
Headshots are an important tool in an actor's arsenal. This article will tell you what headshots are and why you need them.
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Function
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Headshots are photographs, usually 8 inches by 10 inches, that an actor must have in order to audition for roles in theater, film and television. All but the top actors must have a headshot to send in or bring on an audition. A headshot is your calling card. It's the first thing an agent or manager sees when deciding to represent you. It's also the first thing a casting director sees when he is casting a show and need a certain type of actor.
A headshot is usually only of the head and shoulders, but if you're a model-type or extremely fit or another character type, perhaps disabled or a little person, three-quarter shots can be helpful.
Type
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There are two types of headshots typically used.
The first headshot is theatrical. This is generally more serious in tone. It captures your personality and will help you get auditions for dramatic roles in TV and movies. These headshots generally are taken from the neck up. A lot of skin shouldn't show, even if you're a model type.
The second type of headshots is commercial. These shots will help you get auditions for anything from cereal to cleaning products to toilet paper. These shots should be more fun. Smiles are great , but the image should convey something fun and outgoing. You're selling products, and if you ever watch commercials, you see happy, energetic people. Sometimes actors dress in costumes, using a doctor's coat or nurse's scrubs.
Casting directors are divided on this issue. While it's an absolute don't for theatrical shots, it could help get you cast for commercials. Some casting directors CD's say it's helpful and makes casting easier ,and others say it's insulting because they have the imagination to know how to cast.
In a commercial shot, it's really up to you to know you're type. If you're a model with a stunning figure, feel free to take a photo that represents that. If you're a mature woman, skip the bikini shot. Men should try different looks as well. Suits and ties or casual attire is important to show a multitude of characters that you can play. -
Misconceptions
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Headshots can range from $100 to thousands of dollars depending upon your budget and your needs. You don't have to spend a fortune, but some of the really great photographers cost more because of their experience. A good headshot doesn't have to cost a lot of money, but the photographer needs to know how to instill trust so that you can take the best headshot possible.
Do your research. Ask friends, teachers, casting people, even strangers whose headshots catch your eye. A good headshot isn't going to make you a star, but it can open doors. A bad headshot will simply make you look unprofessional and keep you from even getting an audition.
Features
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Once you've researched photographers, schedule a meeting. Just because you love someone's photography doesn't mean that you'll gel with their personality. If they aren't extremely outgoing, you may feel shy and not get your best photo. Or if they have an extremely exuberant personality, that may overwhelm you.
When you've found the photographer you want, schedule an appointment. Make sure you're not planning on making extreme changes to your appearance after your photo shoot or your headshot will be unusable.
Bring a whole array of clothing changes, including colorful shirts and blouses that will stand out on women. Avoid solid whites and blacks because they tend to look flat on camera. Men should bring casual clothing like T-shirts or V-necks, as well as more upscale things like collared shirts and neckties. Pick out things that make you look and feel your best, and the camera will pick up on it. For women, avoid lots of jewelry and accessories because it becomes distracting, unless you're doing a really commercial shot.
The night before the shoot, get plenty of rest, drink lots of water and avoid alcohol, because it bloats you. Arrive early or on time and discuss your needs with the photographer. If you want music cranking, ask for it. It's your shoot, and if you do the proper homework, you can achieve the perfect headshot that could get you in the door to auditions.
Expert Insight
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Bonnie Gillespie, a well respected casting director and author, gives expert advice on the importance of headshots. In her book, "Self-Management for Actors: Getting Down to (Show) Business" and her column, The Actors Voice, Bonnie gives insight into the good, the bad and the ugly of headshots. While a great photo is subjective, she offers her own insight and experience on what makes a headshot stand out from the crowd.
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