Headshot Definition

Headshot Definition thumbnail
A headshot is a picture that an actor brings to an audition.

Anyone entering into the entertainment business will want to know what the definition of a headshot is. A headshot is a picture that a person uses as a calling card. Actors and models typically use headshots to staple their resumes to for auditions. Musicians, real estate agents and artists also have headshots that let people understand their personalities.

  1. Background

    • Headshots have been used for movie stars and musicians for many years. They are all over the walls of popular restaurants to let the restaurant owners brag about who eats there. According to New York photographer Ryan Jones, a headshot should be an expression of who a person is. A headshot can reveal whether a person is business-like or quirky to guarantee that the person gets the type of work that he wants.

    Lighting

    • The lighting of a headshot depends on what type of work you want. An actress or model should find a beautiful outdoor location with natural lighting. For instance, under the Santa Monica Pier in California is an ideal location for getting a model or actress to relax for her headshots and show off her sunny personality. A real estate agent will want a studio shoot with a plain background to demonstrate that she is professional.

    Cropping

    • Cropping is a process of photo-editing to goes in and out of style for headshots. Most casting directors agree that a headshot should leave a border around the person's face and body. According to Zero Dean Photography, casting directors need to see all aspects of an actor's face and body because over-cropping hides bad features. For instance, a hairline that has been cropped might show obvious dark roots or baldness. A headshot that does not have excessive cropping lets the casting director get the full picture of who the actor is.

    Dramatic Headshot

    • A dramatic headshot is what a theatre and film actor wants. The pose for a dramatic headshot should be thoughtful and imaginative. The picture should draw attention to the actor's facial features and his expressions. He should come off as serious and sly to book theatre and film roles. His clothing and accessories should be subtle to encourage casting directors to notice his face.

    Commercial Headshot

    • A commercial headshot is what models, commercial actresses and television actresses want. It demonstrates to casting directors that an actress is charming and well-groomed. The emphasis of a commercial headshot is a wide grin to show off what are ideally white, straight teeth. Goofy smiles are good for actresses who can pull off comedy in commercials.

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References

  • Photo Credit Pretty woman headshot image by MAXFX from Fotolia.com

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