Headshots, part 1:
Actors often ask, what do agents/casting directors look for in a headshot? That’s easy. YOU. I can’t tell you how many times an actor has walked into an audition room and looked nothing like their headshot. Casting Directors love it (and by love it I mean they hate it) when someone hands them a black and white headshot that was taken 10 years and 30 lbs. ago Sorry, I know headshots can be expensive, but it is your calling card, your first impression – don’t cheap out. An out of date headshot indicates an out of date/non-working actor, and I’m sure that is not the message you want to get across.
In many casting offices your headshot is what gets you called in. That is why it is important to have an updated headshot and résumé to represent you (the actor) in the best way possible.
Lets start with the industry standard. Headshots should be in color, 8x10 in size, and your name should be printed somewhere in the front. For your name, make sure you choose a large enough font so anyone reading it doesn’t have to squint. Avoid random font colors, black and white are fine.
What is a good headshot? A good headshot is a current, professional, eye-catching photograph with your résumé attached to it. It’s that simple. When an actor enters the audition room he or she should ALWAYS have two headshots and résumés in hand ready to give to the casting director. Bring extras! You never know how many people are going to be in the audition room.
Make sure your headshot looks like you! As mentioned before, if you don’t look like you in your headshot you need a new headshot. Casting directors usually call in actors based on their look according to the role. If you show up for an audition and look completely different than your headshot you probably just wasted your time and the casting director’s time.
When should an actor have to update headshots? Usually anytime you drastically alter your appearance it is a good idea to update. Such as when you shave your head, dye your hair, cut off several inches in length, got a facial tattoo, got a nose job, gained 20lbs, lost 20lbs or anything else that may have changed they way you look. If you’re a guy it might be a good idea to have a photo of yourself with and without facial hair.
For kids we rarely recommend running out and spending lots of money on a professional photographer. Kids grow like weeds and you can be sure that in six months they will look nothing like the headshot you paid all that money for. We recommend taking some well-lit photos with a digital camera. This will save you a lot of time and money. If you find your child getting a lot of auditions or – better yet - work, then perhaps it is time for that professional headshot.
END PART 1.
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San Diego Casting
