What to do about headshots?

[Chrysanthemum62001]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 1:38pm

I figured you guys would know better than anyone.... And I'll be honest with you guys, this business overwhelmes me at times. I just don't really know where to start.

I am a musical theatre major and I need some sort of headshots to send out to theatre companies to be considered for Summer Stock apprentices, etc. The thing is, I'm still young, and I'm not really at a point in my career that I can afford a $350 and up session. I just need something to send out to people, to go along with the very little teeny tiny resume I have. I know everyone says don't have a friend shoot your headshots, but aren't headshots a friend took better than no headshots at all? So what else could I do? I could use any suggestions, and it would really mean a lot.

[diva007]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 1:43pm

When I was in school I went to the art department and had a photography student take my picture. They actually turned out great! And that is what I used for Summerstock.

[lildogs]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 1:59pm

The photography dept. is a good source--you'll get a good deal and give a young artist some experince. Don't spend alot of money--you're right--it doesn't make sense.

[Emilia]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 2:06pm

I agree, and I'm sure there are pleanty of photography students around who will be willing. I spent a lot of money last year on headshots and now wish I hadn't, simply because it's going to be another couple of years before (god willing) i'm going to profesional auditions etc where I really need the shots.

This said, at least I can always say the lady who took my shots had a spread in 'Time' a month or so later! That almsot makes it worth it!

[Ebonic_Singer]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 2:23pm

Almost .

[PB ENT.]

Posted: 2/9/06 at 3:26pm

I copied this from my post on the student board a while back. This is based on the generally opinion of some of the actors I work with. I found it to be good advice. If you can't afford a professional, try to follow some of these tips regardless of who you go with.

Black and white are always the safe way to go for a few reasons. They are standard, timeless,and almost always clean looking. Keep them current. No one wants a 5-10 year old headshot regardless of your age.

Be yourself. Look natural. The acting begins after you are cast.

If you have a budget, go for a few different looks. IE: serious, casual, fun shots. Include a mix of black and white and color. No more than 3 though.

This will allow a potential casting person to see a few facades of you. Sometimes a person is called based upon a certain look.

Always get a professional to do them if possible. Take several shots and bring in at least 3 people to choose the best. Have them tell you what they like about their choices. Try to be objective and go with the unanomous decision.


Good Luck,
Pati b