All About Theatre Acting Headshots

What Is A Headshot?

The headshot, as a general rule, accompanies your resume, and shows casting directors not only what you look like when they are deciding if they would like to call you to read for a role, but also helps to remind them who you are after they have seen you (and countless others) audition. It is typically an 8 x 10 black and white usually focusing on the head and shoulders, but some may use a shot that shows more of their body.

• Your headshot should always reflect your current age, hairstyle, and all other physical characteristics. If you cut your hair or get a nose job, you need a new photo.
  
• Your acting headshot shouldn't look the same as a modeling headshot. If you also do modeling work, have a separate photo to show to modeling agencies. Modeling headshots show modeling qualities (they look as if someone has told you to look mysterious, excited, dreamy, etc.) A good acting headshot will make you look like an actor, not someone from a CoverGirl commercial. For a photo that helps you look like an actor, try having your photographer photograph you while you are performing one of your monologues.
  
• It is helpful to put a sticker on the back with your name, age, height and weight, should the director wish to refer to them.

Your headshot must...

• look like you
• be 8 x 10
• be attached to your resume
• be approved by your agent (if you have one)

Before You Have Your Headshot Taken

When you are thinking about getting a headshot done, the very first thing you should do is look at lots of headshots. Go to studios and ask to see their portfolios, or browse them online. Take detailed notes of what you like and don't like - everything from poses to the clothing and backdrop.

The second thing you should do is decide what your budget is. Never start shopping for headshots without deciding first how much you are willing to spend. When you don't already have a figure in mind, it's surprising how easily you can be talked into spending more than you can afford. Don't be afraid to be upfront with people about your spending limit.

Hair, Makeup, Clothing for your Headshot

Since the most important job of a headshot is to look like you, stick to your "regular" look when preparing for your headshot - no elaborate hairstyles or glamorous makeup. The industry standard is to use a solid colored top - no white, because it has a tendancy to glare. Avoid shiny makeup - it doesn't photograph well.

How To Choose A Headshot Photographer

• Don't ever hire a photographer to take your headshot without first getting some references and seeing some of his/her previous work. Taking a look at some of the other headshots he's done will 1) show you that he has experience 2) show you how good he is. When you meet someone with a nice headshot that you really like, ask them where they had it done. Also, make sure you shop around in terms of prices. These can vary quite a lot. Ask around and see what other people are paying so you know you're not being ripped off. Be wary of any price that is not only to high but also too low, as it may say something about the quality.

Making Copies of Headshots Cheaply

• Since you're giving out your resume and headshot everywhere you go, it can get quite expensive. Fortunately, you have a few options. Some photography studios and outlets will give you a discount when you buy prints in bulk. Another option is to invest in a good quality printer and photo-quality paper, which can be bought in bulk fairly inexpensively. Get your photo scanned onto your computer, then you can simply print out more copies when you need them. Please note however that you won't be able to print your own copies if you don't own the rights to the photo. Some photographers will want to keep the rights, so make sure you know.
  
• Never photocopy your headshot or print using a low-quality printer.

Questions to Ask Your Photographer Before Booking A Session

• How much will the session cost ?
• Is a deposit required ?
• How many rolls of film are included?
• Who owns the negatives ?
• Is hair style and make up prep included?
• How long will the photo shoot be?
• How much does it cost for extra prints?
• What happens if you are not happy with the pictures?

Do It Yourself Headshots

While using a professional is certainly recommended, use some common sense if you insist on being a do-it-yourselfer. First of all, you can't do this all by yourself - you will need a good friend who is handy with a camera. This of course is the one advantage of using a friend - you will feel very comfortable with them and this may help you find a great pose for you. The biggest problem with "home-made" headshots is the lighting. Poor lighting is what gives an amateur headshot away. If you don't have access to a studio, the next best thing is to take your photos outside, or use an actual theatre with the real theatre lighting turned on - not the work lights! You will also need a high quality camera - digital is probably best.