You
only get one chance to make a first impression. It is very important to
make sure that this first impression is a positive one. First
impressions can often be difficult to change. These first impressions
can take place in many locations. The most obvious, of course, is the
face-to-face meeting. But, other first impression could include email,
faxes, telephone, and for the actor, it is the headshot. This headshot
can be the most important thing in an actor’s bag of tricks. Just as
when you meet someone face to face, it is important that the headshots are clear, up to date, and promote you in the best light possible.
The headshot is the first time that the director or the casting committee sees your face. If these headshots are low quality or vastly outdated, you may be passed over before you even get a chance to enter the room. These headshots
should express your personality; these pictures should immediately
identify the type of acting role in which you excel. These shots should
make the director or casting committee fall in love with you and
remember you above all of the other people that they see.
Many people just starting out in acting, and have very little money,
therefore is very difficult to invest in an expensive photo session. Do
your homework. The most expensive is not always the best choice. You
need a photographer that you can trust with your life, because for all
intensive purposes, you are. These headshots
need to express your personality. A photographer that can bring out the
best of your personality will produce the best photos. The photo
session needs to be as fun and upbeat as possible. True laughter and
happiness will always show in photos. The final product should be high
quality and exude professionalism. They should show that you take great
pride in yourself and your acting career.
It is very important that your headshots are kept very current. As said before, these headshots should immediately identify the role that you are auditioning for. An audition for a dramatic part would require a different headshot
that an audition for a lighthearted comedy. Your headshot should also
represent your current style. If you cut your hair, for example, you
should have new headshots
taken. Casting directors can become confused and dismayed if they fall
in love with your long dark hair, and you walk into the room with short
blond hair. The same is true with facial hair and skin tone. These headshots may seem to be a very simple thing, but they can be the most important thing to your budding acting career.
