Headshots function as an actor's visual r sum , allowing producers to get a feel of what you look like to see if you are right for a given part. They are often your first point of contact with casting directors, so it is vital that your headshots make a good impression and present the real you.
Instructions
1. Light the scene. Like the framing, the lighting should be bright enough to capture all of the subject's features. The lighting should also be soft to diffuse any imperfections or blemishes that would show up with a more high-contrast setup. A backlight or hair light is also recommended to separate the subject from the background and add more detail to the subject's hair.
2. Frame the shot. Generally, headshots are shots of your head from about the shoulders up. The point of a headshot is to show producers what an actor looks like, so it is important that the subject's entire face is clearly visible in the frame. Since the frame is so close, large deviations in angles will be more pronounced, so headshots should be taken only a few degrees off center.
3. Use the right lens. Wide-angle or even medium lenses can add distortion to the image that can distract from the subject. It is best to use a longer lens that will separate the background and slim out the subject.
4. Shoot different poses. An actor's appearance will have an effect on how the producer's perceive them. An actor should have a set of headshots that showcase their different sides. Smiling or laughing may be appropriate for one role, while a more serious expression may help an actor land another role. Most importantly, the actor should appear in each photo how they truly are. Makeup should be kept at a minimum and clothes should be neutral to allow producers and casting directors to imagine the actor in different roles.
