The Actors Headshot

Headshots that get you in the door have these characteristics:

H    Honest Portrayal of who you are.
E    Expressiveness of character.
A    Accurate representation of who you are.
D    Direct connection with audience.
S    Straight forward and relaxed image.
H    Hypnotic effect on viewer.
O    Open and friendly feeling
T    Targeted toward the intended use.

Headshots are Marketing Tools

I can tell you, again, that your headshot is one of the most important tools for getting work as an actor, but what for, everyone else has told you that by now. Every time you go on a casting: What do they ask you?  Resume and Headshot.

The entertainment business is extremely visual. More than any other profession, your first impression more often than not, is the only impression you get to make. ( Next, Please….)

Your Manager and/or Agent will send out your headshot to potential employers. Your headshot is your first impression. There is no chance to show how talented you are. They see your resume but they look at your picture. VISUAL, VISUAL, VISUAL.

Acting Headshot Types

Traditionally all Headshots where black and white but today you will find that most, if not all, are now color.

New York “Legit”         *Facial Shots*

New York “Legit” headshot is a black & white, 8 by 10 inch, matt or semi-matt borderless print in which your face, relatively unadorned, fills most of the frame. It is usually shot in studio but can be taken outdoors.

LA Style Headshots         *3/4 Body Shots*

“L.A. Style”, which has big white borders, your name just outside the photo area, and more of your body showing in a smaller frame.

Facial Expressions

Dramatic “Legit”
Dramatic shots are focused and intense. Such photos are used for plays, film, and television. There are exceptions where a commercial shot would be used for a play or film based on the character.

Commercial
A commercial shot is usually one where the actor is smiling, open, friendly, and glowing with enthusiasm. These photos are used primarily for commercials.