Lots of parents bring in their young talent for actor or model headshots. “I was told I need professional headshots for my son/daughter,” usually by an agent, teacher, or most recently, for Broadway camp. I never heard of Broadway camp before now but boy does it sound like fun.
When you’re overloaded with tasks and trying to stay on top of your kid’s burgeoning career, finding a photographer who does actor headshots can seem daunting. Fortunately many parents have a solid network and share resources readily. If this is your kid’s first time in the studio, though, here are a couple of tips:
- Bring the correct wardrobe. I offer guides to all my clients on what to wear. Read it. If it says “no prints or graphics,” please don’t bring clothing with prints or graphics. I didn’t make these rules, agents and managers have shared their preferences with me.
- Make sure clothing is wrinkle-free. I know, I know, a lot of shirts come out of the dryer with creases. Either fold them or hang them on a hanger. They don’t need to be perfect but you aren’t paying me for my ironing skills!
- No makeup, please! If your 13-year-old really wants makeup bring it along so I can make sure it’s what we need for the camera. Or let me know in advance and I’ll arrange for a makeup artist.
- Decide in advance on hairstyles. I can do hair down, hair up, hair in a ponytail. But if you want hair down, come to the studio with hair down. We can always pull it back later.
The most fulfilling part for me is watching the moms and dads on the day of the session. They are usually standing behind me, trying hard not to interfere but also wanting to make sure the kid is following directions. They look at the photos as they appear on my iPad, and sees not their 10-year-old but a young actor, polished and posed, the way casting directors and talent agents will see them. They have a mixture of pride, awe and a little surprise at the youngster’s poise and presence. It’s touching to see.
Here are a few of Noah, a 10-year-old actor brought in by both mom and dad. Mom was so concerned about a tiny cowlick at the front of Noah’s part. She had a brush, flatiron and hairspray. I told her not to worry, I can edit it out.
Noah did fine :).
Want more tips on preparing for actor headshots?
Essential Expressions for Actor Headshots: https://vickiegrayimages.com/2024/11/from-confident-to-quirky-must-have-expressions-for-actor-headshots/
Wardrobe Guide for Actor Headshots: https://vickiegrayimages.com/2019/08/what-to-wear-for-actor-headshots-the-essential-wardrobe-guide/
