How to Get the Best Headshot
For actors, having a great headshot is the most important tool for getting a foot in the door.
Up next in How to Be an Actor (29 videos)
Attention, aspiring actors and actresses! Break into show business with the tips in these Howcast video.
You Will Need
- 2 upscale outfits
- 2 casual outfits in solid colors
- A business suit
- Other headshots or pictures from magazines (optional) (optional)
Steps
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Step 1
Invest in quality
Prepare to pay for a quality headshot from a professional photographer. It’s the first thing a casting director or agent sees.
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Step 2
Find the right photographer
Research the right photographer for you. Look for someone with experience and see examples of their work.
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Step 3
Look like yourself
Keep your look natural. For women, keep make-up neutral and not too heavy. Wear simple jewelry. Men should be clean-cut.
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Avoid distracting backgrounds. The focus should be on your face.
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Step 4
Bring changes of clothes
Bring two changes of clothing in solid colors, including a business suit. Wear colors that complement your face. Wear clean, pressed, and comfortable clothes.
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Avoid bright colors. Black is always a good choice.
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Step 5
Bring examples
Show your photographer headshots or magazine pictures with the look you want.
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Relax. If you’re not comfortable in a pose, it’ll show in the photo.
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Step 6
Pick the right shots
Have the photographer take one commercial and one theatrical headshot. Have a neutral third party offer an unbiased opinion.
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The first professional digital camera was released in 1991.
