by Vickie | Nov 16, 2024 | Acting Headshot Prep, Actors
For an actor headshot photo session, you want your makeup to enhance your features without being overpowering. Here are some tips:
Foundation: Use a lightweight foundation that matches your skin tone. Avoid heavy foundation or tinted moisturizer (the latter contains zinc which creates shine).
Concealer: Apply concealer to cover any blemishes or uneven skin tones. Don’t overdo it — these are easily removed in retouching.
Blush: Opt for a subtle blush to add a health glow to your cheeks. A cream blush offers the best finish. Avoid contouring.
Eyes:
- Brows: Fill in and/or groom your brows, but keep them natural.
- Eyeshadow: Use neutral shades that complement your skin tone. Matte finish is preferred.
- Eyeliner: A thin line of pencil liner can define your eyes. Avoid liquid eyeliner or winged eyeliner.
- Mascara: Apply a few thin coats of mascara. Avoid false lashes unless they are a key part of your persona.
Lips: Choose a lip color that enhances your natural lip shade. Avoid overly glossy or dark shades.
Overall, aim for a matte finish, with no frosted or highlighted products.
I have a wide variety of makeup artists who specialize in makeup for actor headshots. I’m happy to arrange for them to come to the studio to apply your makeup for the session.
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by Vickie | Nov 16, 2024 | Acting Headshot Prep, Actors
Your actor headshots need to show the range of emotions for the characters you are portraying. Here are a few of the expressions we’ll take you through during your session:
Natural: A relaxed, natural look that represents your baseline.
Joyful smile: A warm, genuine smile that conveys happiness. Depending on the role you’re seeking we might also do a laughing pose.
Serious or thoughtful: Slightly raised eyebrows, subtle smile. Sometimes these can be a little snarky if you’re seeking roles as a cynic or skeptic.
Confident stance: Strong, bold, direct expression. It can also look challenging.
Vulnerable: A softer expression that conveys sensitivity or emotional depth.
Angry or frustrated: An expressive, fierce look that communicates anger or frustration. This can also be an intimidating or threatening look if your characters are villains or gangsters.
Seductive: Sultry or flirty expression.
Playful: Lighthearted, sassy smile, perfect for class clown or kid next door roles.
Agents often request full-body poses. I’m less concerned about your expression in these, as they are primarily intended to show your body type and build.
When you come to the studio I’ll review your wardrobe options as well, to make sure your attire aligns with the roles and expressions you want to convey.
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by Vickie | Aug 11, 2019 | Acting Headshot Prep, Prep Room
Actor headshots are the most significant type of photography I do. Why? Because the photo needs to communicate the actor’s personality, intensity and character, all at a glance. The photos usually appear on the websites or portfolios of casting directors and talent agents. When a producer or director is looking for actors for certain roles, the photos need to stand out, and scream “pick me!” Your photo truly helps get you the job.
The type of clothing you wear to your actor headshot session makes a big difference. There are industry standards for color and style. If you vary from those standards, you run the risk of looking unprofessional or “minor league.” Here are a few guidelines for what to wear for your headshot:
- Solid colors only, no patterns
- All items should be in good condition and fit well
- Long sleeved shirts only, or layer a jacket or shirt over a camisole or tank top
- Bright, medium hued colors are best
- No graphics or decals on t-shirts
- V-neck style t-shirts are preferred
- No jewelry, or only minimal jewelry
- No ruffles, sequins, or sparkles
- No obvious buttons, zippers or trim
- Clothes should be pressed and unwrinkled
For full body shots, make sure the clothes you bring have a flattering fit. You may look great in skinny jeans in real life, but in photographs they emphasize any bulges or creases, especially around the knees or if you have “saddlebags” at the thigh. Full body shots are supposed to show casting directors your body type. Your attire should not be too loose, too baggy or too fussy. We should be able to see your build and body structure easily. What looks good in real life often does not photograph well. Avoid the urge to bring your favorite outfits just because you like them. You should be dressing for the parts you want to be hired for.
Select your clothing well in advance of your photoshoot. Pick out the items you think work best for your character. Take pictures of them with your phone and send them to your photographer. He or she will be able to tell you right away if they will work. If you (or your character) wear glasses, ask to be photographed with and without them.
Visit my Actor Headshot gallery to see examples of head and shoulder, three-quarter, and full body actor headshots. Good luck!
Learn More About Actor Headshots With Vickie
Contact Vickie to Schedule Your Photoshoot
