As I’ve been getting an influx of people emailing me in regards to having their headshots taken, I thought I’d post this as a sort or catch-all to field questions and clear up any ambiguity of what makes for a great headshot, and how to get them.

Q: What makes a headshot exactly?

There are all kinds of opinions on what comprises a headshot, and indeed there are several different categories of headshots, but it’s important to know that there are industry requirements detailing what comprises an acceptable headshot.

First, a headshot is more than just a head-and-shoulders shot. There are certain characteristics of style that are accepted by the professional community, and you should pick a photographer that knows what that style is, and shoots accordingly. Most importantly, a headshot is in many ways your calling card. It needs to accurately portray what you look like, without being overly glamorous or stylized.

An important description for an effective headshot would be “engaging.” Your headshot needs to engage the viewer, and shed light onto your personality and charisma. It needs to say a lot about who you are in addition to what you look like, because in essence this is the photo with which you are selling yourself.

Q: What kinds of headshots are there?

There are subtle variations of headshots, depending on their intended market. But they all involve similar rules and characteristics.
The two main categories are “commercial” and “theatrical.” Commercial headshots are precisely that: headshots for commercial purposes. These are for people looking to be cast in dish detergent ads, cell phone television spots, and even comedic roles.  Commercial headshots are for TV spots as well. Theatrical shots, on the other hand, are geared more for film and, well, theatrical jobs.  These shots need to look a little more clean, professional, and serious.  These are the shots that land you longer-term jobs, so it’s best to convey the notion that you’re smart, able, and most importantly, reliable!

The main differences between “commercial” and “theatrical” often involve clothing choices (bright, vibrant colors are best for commercial shots), as well as posing and expression.  A commercial shot will be warmer, more inviting and smiles, whereas a theatrical shot will show poise, seriousness, and capability.

There are also various styles of headshots:  Actor headshots, mostly to showcase what one might look like for a closeup;  model headshots, which can showcase a little more of the body-type;  beauty or glamour headshots, which focus more on hair, makeup, and skin;  corporate headshots, which help sell a business or profession; etc etc

Q: Are headshots best done black and white, or color?

Ten years ago and earlier, having headshots printed in color cost several times as much as having them printed in black and white, so naturally b&w headshots were the norm. However, since the advent of digital reproduction, color prints are easy and cost-effective, and therefore have become standard.

Q: What about hair/makeup?

Hair and makeup are of course optional, but can potentially make or break a headshot.
As mentioned earlier, you don’t want to over-glamorize yourself, but you definitely want to look like you on a “good hair day.” Finding a stylist who knows how to give you a “clean” look can make you your best, but you’ll still look like you for auditions and meets with clients.  Beauty headshots, naturally, can be the exception to this rule.  But even still, restraint must be practiced.  Not all hair/makeup stylings are the same, so you must accurately showcase what you have to work with.

For sessions with me, you can feel welcome to book your own stylist, but I have several on retainer that I can book for you, if needed.  As I mentioned, completely optional, but a very wise investment.