If there is anything that I am noticing when I'm looking through headshots and resumes is the countless number of pictures that are just selfies. Now I know this is the era of selfies and phones take quality pictures but really how does anyone expect to get a role if they are sending selfies and not even trying to get a professional headshot done. I see this as a lack of commitment and disrespect to the craft as many actors take the time to put together professional works and others don't. How do many of you feel about this?
Acting : To have or not have professional headshots? by Allen Clark
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I have seen some guides online that try to instruct you on how to take your own selfie headshots. Personally I would be embarrassed to send or use a selfie as my headshot, unless the part I was applying for required a selfie type photo.
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The standards have certainly changed. But unless a CD or agent says it's OK to send over a selfie or, let's call it, a "general shot", you'll get much further having professional shots. Don't let it bother you, Allen. Look at it as a competitive advantage.
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I agree gentlemen. Also people need to be aware as to what they are sending things to. I had an actor send pictures that were complete in the buff which upset me as the information is looking for actors with a description that had nothing to do with send full body exposed pictures. Again it's a profession and reading and understanding what we are all hear for should be a must.
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Wait, Allen...Are you actually saying the common sense should prevail? (yes...sarcasm)
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Exactly
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I feel that if you take a selfie and use it as a headshot, then you are really not serious about a career in entertainment. There is nothing wrong with a headshot taken by a photographer. Hell, you are giving that photographer business if you think that route. Taking a selfie is, in essence, taking business away from a photographer. I guess I am a little old school but my headshots must be done by a photographer. Just something I learned in this business.
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Can't argue, Rich. An investment in you and your ambitions.
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Ugh selfies...I don't even like saying the word. I will always go with the photographer to take my headshots because I don't even know how to take a picture of myself. I have seen many auditions for selfies, but they were a second only if you didn't have a headshot.
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Certainly with the digital content revolution, you see more and more casting notices where selfies are accepted. Still maintain that professional headshots send a much stronger message.
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It does happen, though, bro. I got my agent and acting gigs through a selfie by writing for a working actor on S32. I'm on a shoot in N.M. now for a prison movie with the selfie/phone pic included. All depends who you know, and how they value your talent.
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That's what these forums are all about, my friend. Sharing experiences and different points of view. Healthy debate. Really interesting to hear that this is how it went down, Shawn. Appreciate you sharing! Curious if anyone else here has had a similar experience.
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Depends. If you are auditioning for real roles - PAID theater, Tv, Film, Commercials etc you need a good photo. Selfies are never great, BUT a decent homemade photo that represents who you are and what you look like is fine for student films, or even low paid non-union / student films. This is a business and if you treat it like a start-up, the less you can spend up front to start your business the better. MOST norms I learned in acting schools/college 20-25 years ago are passe now. I have not had a hard copy of the head shot on hand at auditions in 5 years. Agent/Manager submits digital copy, I show up, slate, audition and leave. Headshots that cost $500-1000 are in the past. Have someone take a great photo with your phone. Put that on your social media platforms and websites. A photo that looks like you, represents YOU, is better than an expenseive glam shot etc
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For the record, guys, I couldn't believe what happened to me either - still blown away. I'm lookin' around New Mexico today, as a paid actor waiting for our 3p call, like, damn I'm blessed.... RB says it best, 'all you need is one champion of your work.' I would not be on-set in NM today if it weren't for S32! S32 works if you work it, Fam :)