How to Get the Most out of Your Headshot Session

One of an actor's most valuable tools is his headshot. A headshot photo is essentially your calling card. It needs to be an accurate representation of you, meaning it should look like you physically and capture your persona. Headshot sessions are not cheap so you want to make sure you get the most out of your session.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• A few clothing options
• Make up
• Powder
• Hair brush
• Eye drops

1. Talk to your agent or manager about what he wants to see come out of your session. He may have a few different "looks" he wants you to achieve such as a business professional shot in a suit or a friendly commercial shot. Make sure you are both on the same page regarding your goals for the session.
2. Map out a few different looks for the session. Don't just think about changing your shirt but about a completely different look. Brainstorm about the various roles you may audition for and aim for a photo that targets that type of role.
3. Plan the wardrobe you want to wear for each look. Don't forget to include any necessary accessories such as belts, hats and jewelry.
4. Map out how you'd like your hair and makeup to be for each different look. If you are doing your own hair and makeup for the session, practice a few days beforehand so you know exactly what you'll be doing at the shoot.
5. Make sure all your clothes are clean and wrinkle-free on the day of the shoot. Organize all your items beforehand so you don't feel rushed that morning.
6. Bring your makeup and hair items with you to the shoot. Make sure you bring a neutral facial powder to tone down shine. You should also bring eye drops in case your eyes become red and irritated.
7. Discuss exactly what you want to accomplish with the photographer. If she doesn't know your goals, she won't be able to help you reach them. The more planning you do beforehand, the better results you'll see afterwards.
8. Bring fun music with you to session. Some people tend to tighten up in front of the camera. You want your photos to be natural so aim to keep yourself loose. Music can sometimes help to do that.
9. Get plenty of sleep the night before the shoot and drink lots of water in the days preceding it. Water can help plump up the fine lines in the face, making your skin look better.
10. Vary your poses and expressions in the session. Since most photographers now use digital cameras, you don't have to worry about wasting film. Let loose and try something new. You may find your best photos happen when you take a chance.
11. Have fun! The best photos are the ones where the subject is enjoying herself. Though you want your photos to turn out right, try to let go and remember it's just a photo session. If you enjoy yourself, it'll come through on camera.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't worry if you wake up with a blemish the morning of your headshot session. Blemishes and other issues can be corrected in Photoshop.
• Never starve yourself prior to a headshot session. Eat a solid meal the morning of your shoot. You don't want to become fatigued mid-way through the session and your skin will look better if you are nourished.

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