Headshots are an essential part of an actor's career. They allow casting directors to see your personality at a glance, and they serve as a reminder of what you look like after your audition. Headshots can mean headaches for some actors, but with a few basic tips you'll find these vital photos are a lot easier to deal with than you suspected.
Choosing a Photographer
In photos, as in life, you get what you pay for. A roommate with a digital camera can work in a pinch, but the reality is that headshots taken by a professional photographer always look the best. A pro can shoot angles and poses that bring out your best features. It costs more, but the money you spend will usually result in better photographs.
Choose a photographer that you feel comfortable with. Get referrals from your actor friends and review their headshots for quality.
Size, Color and Technical Specifics
Almost all headshots are required to be 8 by 10 inches. According to ActingBiz.com, some casting directors will occasionally ask for 3 by 5-inch headshots. This smaller scale is used more for applying for extra work than other acting jobs.
Color headshots are used often for commercial work and film, so investing in color is a must if you are working in anything medium other than theater.
If you have a CD from your photographer--and his or her permission to reprint the headshots yourself--use high-quality photograph paper. You can also benefit from test-printing the headshot to ensure that quality level is extremely high. Don't touch the freshly printed headshot as ink can smear easily before it dries.
Multiple Looks, Multiple Uses
Agents typically recommend a type of look for you to go for with your headshots. Often they want to see several different looks that correspond with the need for films and commercials to use certain "types." These can range from lazy slobs to dapper executives. If you have a range of headshots with different looks, your agent can submit you for a variety of specific part types.
You will also need a headshot that is less specific to any one "type" and is more of a window into your personality. This will usually serve as your main headshot.
As more casting companies require digital submissions, you will need photos that can be placed online. Your main headshot will be the first one a casting director sees; the series of specific-looking headshots will follow. Get a digital copy of all your headshots from your photographer.
