- Don’t overdo your makeup. You want to look like yourself on your best day and not look like you tried too hard. Be yourself. Do your hair the way you would for every audition.
- Don’t go quirky with clothing and props.
Let’s not get nuts here. Keep it simple and classy, and follow the standard format. Professionalism gets you noticed. A simple, solid shirt with a little texture that fits you well and matches your eyes should do the trick. No whites and no graphics or anything that might distract from your face, and no props.
- Consider natural light vs. studio.
Some photographers do both, as they offer a different look and feel. Natural light gives a very real look. Studio lighting tends to be a little more polished, with a more neutral backdrop. If you are more of a sitcom actor, perhaps a well-lit studio headshot is best for you. If you want to look like you are on the Fargo series go for the outdoor look.
- Pay attention to framing, lighting, and background.
Generally a good headshot is chest-up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows.
- Choose personality over glamour.
Make sure it looks like you with easy airbrushing. Casting directors expect you to look just like your headshot and will not be happy when you show up looking totally different or 10 years older. It’s not about looking pretty, it’s about representing your type, wrinkles included.
- Go pro.
Spend money—it’s worth it. Go to a professional who is trained, understands lighting, and takes headshots for a living, not a friend who happens to have a decent camera who has a hobby of taking photos. Save those pics for Instagram and leave the headshots to the pros.
#actor #headshot
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I have had complete strangers shake their finger at me and tell me, "You HAVE to listen to what others are saying to you.:" My response, "I don;t HAVE to do anything." And they get angry with me. It's...
Expand commentI have had complete strangers shake their finger at me and tell me, "You HAVE to listen to what others are saying to you.:" My response, "I don;t HAVE to do anything." And they get angry with me. It's interesting to me that it seems to be a film and television thing. Never once doing theater have as a fellow actor told me I should play it this way or that way. We all defer to the director and act as a team.
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This is so interesting. I think there are a lot of angry extras who believe they should have roles in these projects and are bitter.
I have heard extras complain that someone might have gotten cast to...
Expand commentThis is so interesting. I think there are a lot of angry extras who believe they should have roles in these projects and are bitter.
I have heard extras complain that someone might have gotten cast to say two words because they are friends with the director. That happens and I understand it.
Sometimes directors want toy be around their friends and like giving them a small role as a favor. So, to those who are angry about this, I would say, become friends with a film director.
Or, work unbelievably hard at being great and find an agent who can submit you for roles.
I agree with you. You don’t have to listen to anyone
If it is someone you respect, then take in what they have to say. Others you can listen and filter everything else, and if what is being said makes no sense then disregard their information
Thank you so much for sharing
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Actors can say a lot! Without saying anything...! Freedom to express is part of the art form! Thanks Aaron!
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You are so right Rachel. There is so much we say without saying a word. Thank you so much for this incredibly wise comment.
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Awhh Thank YOU Aaron!! Much love:-)