How to Save Money on Acting Headshots

Save money on headshots

Acting headshots are some of the most important tools you will have as an actor. Your headshot should accurately represent you, and is essentially your calling card. Actors are chosen to audition based on headshot submissions. Without a good headshot, you won't get the opportunity to audition for projects. The cost of acting headshots can be incredibly expensive, from the photo session rate to reproductions of the shots. There are, however, ways you can save money on acting headshots.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Wardrobe options

Instructions

1. Search for headshot photographers in your area that offer special deals and discounts. Like most services, headshot photographers often offer seasonal specials where you may save a significant percentage off their standard prices. View various photographers' websites to see which ones offer sales.

2. Contact a particular photographer whose work you like and ask him about specials. Most photographers will offer some kind of discount package. If you know you'll want a long session with multiple different looks or outfits, you may be able to save money on a bulk-type discount.

3. Look on local casting websites such as Actors Access, LA Casting or NY Casting for photographers who offer "time for prints" shoots, also known as "TFP." New photographers often do this as they need photos for their portfolios. They will get the experience of shooting you and will then be able to use those headshots as examples of their work. You will get a free photo session. In essence, in exchange for your time, you get free prints.

4. Ask any friends you have who are actors if they would be interested in splitting a headshot session. Photographers may offer a deal where you can split a session with a friend. You do end up with less photos overall, but you'll pay a significantly reduced price per person.

5. Plan your headshot session completely prior to the shoot day. You will get the most out of your headshot session if you know exactly what you want to accomplish. Nothing wastes money more than a poorly planned session so take time to map out the exact looks you want. This means thinking of the various character types you are going for, such as "young mom" or "professional executive." You should then have clothing and accessories to go with that look.

6. Do your own hair and makeup for your headshot session. Whereas many people hire a professional makeup artist and hair stylist, you can save some serious money by doing both yourself. An added benefit is that you will easily be able to reproduce the same looks when you go in for auditions.

7. Search for headshot reproduction services that offer good prices. Many such services offer bulk discounts and seasonal specials so visit their sites regularly to catch any sales. You can choose between photographic and lithographic reproductions. Photographic is higher quality, however, advances in lithographic reproductions have come so far that the difference is minimal. Save yourself some money and choose lithographic reproductions.

Tips & Warnings

• Prepare for your headshot session by having a friend snap some digital photos of you. This can help you to be comfortable in front of the camera and loosen you up for your actual session.

• If you have an agent or manager, talk to her prior to your shoot. You can avoid later re-shoots by making sure you are both on the same page in regard to what you need out of the session.

• Be aware of any cancellation fees attached to your headshot session. If you need to cancel, make sure to do so within the cancellation period to avoid fees.

Resources

• Actors Access
• LA Casting
• NY Casting