“The devil is in the details” is a popular saying. And for a good reason – it’s very true! Details are important in any profession, especially ones like acting that focus on aesthetics and personality. Regardless of whether you’re a seasoned actor or a newcomer, one of the best ways to make a great first impression is by having quality Los Angeles headshots at your disposal. A reputable headshot photographer can take headshots that make you stand out from the crowd and showcase your acting potential even when you can’t be there in person to make a positive first impression. If you’re wondering what makes a great headshot – and can attract the attention of a hiring director in seven seconds – read on!
Be Yourself
When you look at images of yourself, friends, and family on social media, you’d probably agree that everyone looks best when they are in their own natural element. Just as you want to be yourself in a Facebook or Twitter shot, the same concept applies to LA headshots. Looking like yourself will result in a better image by making you appear happier and more relaxed. It will also make your personality shine through, which is critical for actors looking to land starring roles. If you struggle with this concept, ask yourself what your favorite character would look like in such a role. Keep in mind that it doesn’t mean dress up in an elaborate costume or wear loads of makeup. Instead, focus on the character’s personality and aim to emulate his or her style and persona. For more tips about how to add personality to your headshots, see our blog Two Tips for Showcasing Actor Personality.
Stand Out From the Crowd
In a sea of actors and resumes, having one that stands out from the crowd can be a challenge. So how do you make it happen? Ultimately, your minuscule thumbnail shot needs to be authentic, engaging, and natural. This means it should have a delicate balance of the right
ambiance and atmosphere (think complimentary background colors and the color of your clothing), the right exposure, and an overall relaxed atmosphere that conveys the impression that you’re trying, but not too hard, to land the role. While there is some freedom for creativity when it comes to standing out from the crowd, there are also limits. Even though you’re in the acting profession, there are some “no-no’s” to be aware of, such as wearing inappropriate clothing (such as a bathing suit), tight shirts, and eccentric accessories that are distracting and take away from your professional caliber. Click HERE for more information about wardrobe for your LA headshots.
Meet the Requirements
Even though acting is a creative profession, you still need to play by the rules. Headshots in LA must still adhere to certain industry standards. A headshot Los Angeles headshot photographer can help make this happen. You’ll need to ensure that the image size, color, composition, and lighting are in line with industry standards. An acting headshot photographer can also edit the image to align with governing requirements if necessary. This includes cropping and touching-up an image. To ensure the best results, regardless of where you are located, you should position yourself as close to the center of the frame as possible. Your face and body should face primarily towards the front. While you can experiment with different angles, be sure to let casting directors and hiring managers see your entire face and get a sense of your face shape. You should also show both eyes in all your headshots.
Look Natural
While it’s tempting to get dolled up for the camera, the best Los Angeles headshots have a look that’s much more natural and realistic. If you want to get a new haircut for your headshot, be sure to schedule one at least three weeks out to get used to the new look. Avoid the temptation to pile on too much makeup, which can detract from your natural appearance and make you look much different onset than in photos. Considering hiring directors complain that actors don’t look like themselves 25{c60618cd33f8454ace9542dd2b76166f05fc13f8d222df3325ac925377e6e653} of the time or more, that’s certainly a mistake to avoid!
Find a Match
The best headshot photographer Los Angeles realizes that there’s not a one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to creating quality headshots. The right photographer for another individual might not even be the best choice for you! Acting and photography are both highly personalized professions. This means you should work with someone who understands your goals and objectives to get the best results. These days, it’s easy to do web-based research to find the best headshot photographer around. You can also take recommendations from friends, family members, and fellow actors. Bear in mind that you can encounter many variables, such as photographers who work better with females or males, or who specialize in certain types of acting roles. If you’re serious about advancing your career, it’s wise to take the time to find a photographer who can showcase you in the best possible light.
Consider the Cost
Getting a headshot is a great investment. But it can also be expensive! Unfortunately, there are some photographers out there who just want to capitalize on your business. But there are many more who are also trustworthy and reputable. Before booking a headshot session, take some time to do research beforehand. Finding the right match with a photographer will pay off in the long run by making it easier to apply for roles that are a better match for you and your style of acting.
Prepare for a Shoot
Regardless of whether you’re going to school, a wedding, or a photoshoot, it’s always best to be prepared. Even though the best headshot photographer Los Angeles can help you look your best in a picture, you need to do some preparation on your own to get optimal results. Before the big day, do some research to study other headshots that you like. What do you find most appealing about them? How is the actor standing, and what is he or she wearing? Taking the time to understand what you like (or what you don’t) about a headshot can go a long way in helping you get the precise look that you’re after.
Plan Ahead
If you’re scheduled for an audition or need to submit a resume by Friday, there’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re racing the clock. Scheduling a headshot in advance goes a long way in making sure you get the image you want when you want it. Planning ahead will also make you look and feel more confident and relaxed, which translates to better headshots!
Getting a quality headshot isn’t quite as easy as showing up at the studio and hoping for the best. It takes some planning and effort on your part, as well as the touch of an expert’s hand. Count on The Headshot Truck, with an experienced staff and expert advice, to help you get the high-quality headshot you need for your next gig. We are proud to offer a one-of-a-kind mobile headshot truck that comes to you wherever the most convenient location is for your headshots. We also have offices in LA where you can just as easily schedule a time to come in for a headshot. Whether you’re new in town or a seasoned professional, we look forward to helping you get the best possible headshots in LA to enhance or start your successful acting career.
