Tip 1
Your headshot should look like you
Ok, this might seem obvious, but hear me out. The reason you're getting a headshot is to leave a reminder of who you are, and what a great monologue you performed during the audition. The director or casting agent should be able to connect the person they saw at the audition with the face on your headshot.
It's important to look your best for the headshot session. Drink lots of water and be well rested before your headshot session. Avoid drinking alcohol or taking any drugs the night directly before or the night prior to your shoot. Also try to avoid smoking cigarettes right before the session.
Tip 2
Be deliberate with your clothing choices
Simple is best. The focus of the headshot should be your face, eyes, smile--not your clothing! Solid colors always work well, and darker clothing keeps the attention on your face and eyes. You should be comfortable in the clothes you're wearing.
Black is always a good choice, but avoid white shirts unless they are worn underneath something. Pick at least one article of clothing that will help emphasize your eyes. Avoid items that have logos, large stripes or busy patterns.
Your clothing should be neatly pressed or ironed and should look new or like new. If you're going to wear jewelry keep it simple and make sure that it doesn't distract from your face.
Different necklines will change the apparent shape of your face. Bring a variety to see what works best. Turtlenecks are never a good choice.
I'll work with you when you arrive for your session to evaluate your wardrobe and help decide what we should shoot.
Tip 3
Pay attention to your hair and makeup
Make up should be clean and natural, and hair should be styled but not overly so.
Invest in a good translucent powder--it will help your skin look less shiny, keep pores looking smaller and help even out skin tones.
A headshot session is not the time to try something new. Avoid trying new products on your hair, face or body less than a week before the shoot.
Even if you don't normally wear lipstick photos tend to look better with it.
I can provide you with a referral to an experienced makeup artist upon request.
Tip 4
What to Bring to the Headshot Session
- Clothing choices
- Lip Balm
- Hair brush / comb
- Translucent powder and any other makeup / hair products you may need
Tip 5
A special note about glasses
If you're planning on wearing your glasses to the session please find out if they have an anti-reflective coating. Please also make sure your lenses are clean. Bring a cloth for wiping your lenses.