How to take HeadShots
Step 1:
Consult experienced professional actors whom you trust and whose head shots get them auditions. Find out which photographers they recommend and trust.
Step 2:
Call at least three different photographers and ask the following questions: Do they include a makeup and hair artist in the package? What is the price? It varies depending on the market, but $75 to $150 a roll is about average. Research prices in your market so you have an idea.
Step 3:
Set up an appointment to visit the photographer and view his or her portfolio.
Step 4:
Make sure the head shots in the portfolio include types of people like you. For example, if you're African-American, does the photographer shoot African-Americans well? If you're a character actor, does this photographer cover that style professionally?
Step 5:
Chat with the photographer to find out if you two have a comfortable rapport. If you don't feel relaxed and comfortable, that will come across in your head shots.
Step 6:
Choose a photographer and make an appointment to shoot. Allow approximately 2 hours for the session if you're having your makeup and hair done there. If you wish to bring a professional makeup person with you, schedule that person as well.
Step 7:
Arrive 15 minutes early on the day of the session.
Step 8:
Bring two changes of clothes, if desired: one top for your casual, smiling, commercial shot, and another for your serious, dramatic, theatrical shot. Remember that some photographers charge per "look."
Step 9:
Shoot the photos, which should be approximately one to two rolls of black-and-white film.
Step 10:
Expect the photographer to print the lithographs for you, and ask to have your name clearly printed on the front of each shot.
Step 11:
Have your resume printed on the back of each head shot, or staple your resume to the back.
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