The Business of the Biz

Now that we’ve delved into the format, what should U look like in the headshot?  It’s almost easier to tell U what not to look like.  Here are the YES and NO’s.

NO   Looking like a fashion model:  There are some photographers out there that will make U look like the pages of Elle or GQ. Great — except U want to be an actor rather than a model.  So forget the high glam clothes, the spiked-out hair, the massive bling.  All this does is do what those photos are meant to do - make someone notice the clothes and hair instead of the individual.   As film is now digital, ask the photographer to look at the shots while he/she’s taking them to make sure it’s not Vogue U’re looking at.

YES   A simple look:  For everyone this includes something with sleeves. Many women use the shoulder-strappy look. It often can actually be distracting, as the breast area becomes more visible. If it has to be sleeveless, then use something more covering in the front. As for men, there is little excuse for tanktops as dress for headshots. U are not trying to be a fitness model.  As a general rule, wear something form-fitting to show your physiciality but rather hint at it than be obvious.

NO  To massive jewelry:  Women, keep it simple or non-existent.  The biggest danger to any headshot is allowing distraction from U.  A large broach, necklace, earrings, even hair-piece can be a hindrance.  While style is appreciated, there is little chance anyone at a casting office will care about your personal variety, particularly if they’ve still yet to meet U.  And men, this goes the same for U.

YES  To smiling:  Even in this day and age of the single-camera sitcom (like ‘The Office’ or ‘Everybody Hates Chris‘),  U still need the “funny” shot.  So do your best smile.  Experiment with the photographer. Show teeth, cock your head.  Likewise –

NO  To mugging for the camera:  A big gafaw or shot where your eyes are lost in your crinkle is useless to those bringing in actors. That’s for the room itself, for people to enjoy your humor, your ability to laugh and that U have an easy-going demeanor about yourself (more on that later).

YES   To intensity:  Just as U need the comedic shot, U need the “dramatic” one too.  When that is getting shot, imagine yourself on a show U watch all the time…”I’m a detective on ‘Cold Case‘” is something U can imagine as U peer into that camera.  Have an angle in your head of something REAL.

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