How to Make a Head Shot
A head shot is a photograph that is used primarily by people in the entertainment industry to apply for jobs. It shows the hiring agency what you look like. Head shots are imperative for aspiring actors and models and almost all auditions require one as part of the application process. Hiring a company to take your head shot can be very costly. If you have a digital camera, you can save money and make your own.
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Things You'll Need
- Digital camera
- Computer
- Photo-editing software
- Someone to assist if possible
Instructions
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Pick a shirt to wear for the head shot. You will only be capturing your shoulders and above, so the cut and sleeves aren't important. Choose a color that is flattering but not distracting.
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Style your hair simply but nicely. You can use make-up to highlight features while maintaining a natural look. You shouldn't overdo the hair or make up since the most important part of a head shot is to convey how you actually look.
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Look at pictures of head shots. You can browse head shots online by doing a search for the term. Get ideas for poses, angles, unique cropping and facial expressions. The expression you use in your photo may be dependent on what type of industry you are in. For example, if you are applying for comedic roles, you may want to do a goofy pose and expression. If you're uncertain, consider a light smile or a relaxed look.
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Choose an area to take the photograph. You may want to do it outside to utilize natural lighting or you may take it inside and set up your own. Find an area that won't cast harsh shadows, such as the shaded side of a building or a room with multiple light sources.
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Pick a background that is neutral looking. You will want something that won't clash with the color of the shirt you're wearing and it should be as simple and non-distracting as possible. A wall, the side of a building, or a sheet tacked up all make excellent backgrounds.
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Have your friend take multiple pictures of you, if you have someone helping. If you are using a self-timer, set up the camera so that it focuses on your face and shoulders. Try multiple poses and angles. Look over the photos as they're being taken to decide what you like and what you don't. If you have someone there helping, ask their opinion on what looks good.
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Upload the photos when you're finished. Choose the one(s) you like the best. You may want to do some minor editing. This may include minor blemish removal, adjusting the brightness or cropping. Save the photo in the highest resolution allowed when you are satisfied.
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Take the photo file(s) to a photo lab to be printed, or print your own. The photo should be 8.5 x 11 inches. It's a good idea to print a few extras to hand out or hang on to.
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Tips & Warnings
If you liked multiple pictures, hang on to them. You may want to have multiple head shots on file.
Make sure the photo emphasizes your head and shoulders.
In some cases, having your photos printed at a lab can be cheaper than doing it yourself.
If you are printing your photos at home, make sure everything is set up properly. You don't want to waste valuable ink and expensive photo paper.
References
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Brand X Pictures/Getty Images
