Every entertainer needs a publicity photo–-singers, actors, dancers, instrumentalists, conductors, pianists, musical groups, models, even teachers, coaches and consultants can benefit from a good "headshot."

What is a "Headshot?"

When you’re just getting started, a simple, 8x10, black-and-white head- or head-and-shoulders-shot is sufficient. When you’re going out for modelling or film jobs (movies, commercials, etc.) you may need a "3/4 length shot" (still 8x10) which shows your head, shoulders and torso. This can also be a good idea in general if you are going out for parts which require a certain body type (provided that you have the right body type!).

Many actors and models, especially for film and modelling, find it necessary to have at least two contrasting photos, i.e., one happy, one serious. Generally speaking, opera singers' headshots are more "glamorous" than actors’ or musical theater singers’ pictures. It's important to have a photo that is the right "look" for your particular industry.

This is especially important in theater and film. If your headshot was done by a perfectly reputable photographer but not one who is a great headshot photographer, your shot may stick out like a sore thumb. Take your time, look at the headshots of seasoned professionals in your field. The internet is a great way to do that...see our list of photographers; look at their portfolios online. When you go to shows, check out the headshots on display or in the program.

A good head shot will get the attention of the casting director. These images should capture the essence of the actor or model at his or her best, but not look too posed, polished, and perfected that they detract from seeing the real person. A relaxed, candid pose is best. Casual, but not too casual clothes in mid tone colors should be worn to the shoot. Accessories and jewellery should be on the small side. Nothing should divert attention from the individual.

the most important thing is a very clear photo which makes you look like your very best YOU!

THE DAY OF THE PHOTO SHOOT

(Process, Dress, Makeup, Set the Atmosphere and Psychology of Headshots)

Process:

I approach the sitting in two phases. In the first group of shots, we go for a "neutral" look, It is from this grouping that you will most likely choose for your main headshot. In phase two, based on our initial interview, we'll find out more about the characters and roles you like to play and we bring out those characters during the remainder of the shoot through improv suggestions.

Bring your own makeup and hair brushes! You are more than welcome to invite a skilled friend who can help you in this area

The actual shooting is done in the studio.  Bring a CD of your favorite music to help set the mood! I have my own eclectic selection of music too. Be prepared to chat with me during the shoot! Its a fun experience. I'll do everything reasonable to capture you in a relaxed, natural pose. We'll take frequent breaks so you can see the results (instant feedback with the digital camera).

Bring your favorite bottled water! You need plenty of water to look at your best during the shoot.

When the shoot is over, the images will be transferred to the graphics computer. Now comes the hard part! Culling down the images to between 20 and 40 for your preview sheets (online gallery and CD) to take with you at the end of the session. I'll keep the entire sitting on the master archive, but getting down to a smaller number on your preview sheets can be a challenge. If you have a talent agent, most prefer proof sheets so they can help you choose the final six poses that will be rendered into the great headshots which will help you get noticed.

The photo preview will be uploaded on a web gallery and printed on CD for you to take home with you at the end of the session. Each image on the gallery has a reference number. Once you choose what you want, just call or email us with the image number and I'll finish your headshots. They'll be ready in one or two business days after you provide the image numbers. Keep in mind that the previews are unfinished representations of the final headshots. They must be artfully cropped, color and exposure corrected, and retouched before they can be used and reproduced in quantity.

You will receive a CD-ROM with the final image files for each of the 4 final images. In addition, your CD-ROM will include web-optimized versions of these final images for you to use in emails, on-line agency portfolios or any other web-based site you chose for self promotion. You may order additional images for finishing at very reasonable additional cost.

Dress:

1. Wear solid-color mid tones: Avoid plain black or white colors because they are difficult to light. This may result in contrast problems with finished lithographed prints which do not have the contrast latitude of the more expensive photo paper prints. Try to wear colors closer to your skin tone. This will help accentuate your natural features

2. Neckline: Is your neck short or long? A V-neck lengthens the neck; a round neckline shortens it. A collar frames the face well, without taking away length from your neck. A collared shirt with a V-neck or a few buttons undone is most popular. Turtlenecks completely hide the neck, which is very unflattering, and should be avoided.

3. Subdued/No Patterns: Avoid bold colors and crazy patterns.  They will present a distraction.

4. Glasses: If you always wear glasses, keep them on for the photo shoot. Lighting can be adjusted to eliminate glare. In difficult cases, the lenses can sometimes be removed from the frames, but it is very important to maintain a natural, comfortable look

5. Personal: Wear something that makes you feel great and relaxed.

6. No Jeans for full or mid-length shots. Jeans are a little too casual. Try something more formal. Remember you want to look extraordinary and have something to offer that the rest do not have.

7. No shiny leather: Screams "over the top". It limits your potential and distracts from your face.

8. Denim jackets: Sometimes they work. Bring it along and we'll see.

9. No Logos: Okay. Listen carefully: NO WRITING ON YOUR SHIRT. That goes for auditions as well. Its a movie industry thing - logos mean product placement issues and the production staff must be very careful about legal issues. So if a logo appears in your headshot, it just shows you aren't clued in.

10. Limited Jewelry: Avoid distracting accessories, such as large, shiny jewelry. If you have a pierced ear, wear studs or small hoops. No matter how much you love your gold necklace, remember it will take the focus away from your face.

Makeup!

1. Avoid heavy makeup! During finishing of your selected images, we will take care of blemishes and other 'artifacts' on your skin during the basic retouch process. Heavy makeup tends to look caked up. Remember that my cameras and lenses produce images at far higher definition than even HDTV and my job is to flatter you, but your headshot has to look like the person that walks into the audition space!

2. Skin Features: Do not hide your skin's personality! Flaunt your freckles. Cover your moles. They are a part of what makes you unique. Unique features are what makes others sit up and take notice. Of course, if the day of the shoot you are sporting a monstrous zit, use some light makeup, but I'll magically heal it! Generally speaking, unusual attractive features are an asset. Who would ever want to say good-bye to Harrison Ford's chin scar?

3. B/W Photo: Remember, if you are going for you're doing this for Black and White, not color; darker colors will appear as shadow, lighter colors as highlight. The trend in the states is for color headshots and in UK is B&W because I shoot everything in color, you'll have a wide range of choices.

4. Eyeliner: Soft, applied with a brush sparingly, using very little on the lower lid.

5. Straight Hair: You want to frame your face, so if your hair is very straight and long, give it some body to accentuate your face.

6. For Men Only: A very light coat of powder will help even out your skin tones. Otherwise, use make-up very sparingly.

7. Pimples, Etc: Life is full of little imperfections. Don't panic! I’m an expert retouchers and you will be amazed what digital retouching can do to a photo!

8. Dark Beards: Dark beards usually get accentuated in photos, so some men may want to use a little cream base to slightly lighten their beard.

9. Hairpiece: Great! You've got two looks. Definitely do a shot with and without it.

10. Haircut: Don't cut your hair the day before your shoot! It will look like you just got a haircut. Give your hair a week after a cut to relax.

Set the Atmosphere:

1. Sound: Bring some music (CD's preferred)  that makes you happy, relaxes you, and makes you feel more at home. Be prepared to chat, relax, and have fun! I have my own eclectic library of music in many genres' on the iPod, so if you forget - don't fret!

2. Sight: Bring several changes of clothes, and do not be afraid to use them.

3. Taste: Eat well. Stay energized. Bring some bottled water to drink.

4. Smell: Scents tap right into the animal part of your brain. They can help get you in the right mood. If you have a perfume/cologne that makes you feel like a million bucks, or a scented candle that puts your mind at ease, by all means bring it.

5. Touch: If it works, bring a close friend who helps you relax and feel at ease with yourself, and who can help you adjust your hair and clothing. It your friend makes you giggle or feel embarrassed, pass on the invitation.

6. Above all - give yourself enough time. I suggest it will take from 1 1/2 to 2 hours for your session. If you are rushed, it will show in the results. If you know you'll be rushed, call in advance to reschedule your appointment. I'd much rather do it right the first time.

Psychology of Headshots:

"I don't look like that, do I?" Each of us has a vision of how we want to look. Expert lighting and camera work can capture the natural you, but remember — you've come for a headshot, not a contrived "glamour" shot that casting agents will discard in a New York second!

Understand the use of a headshot. A casting agent analyzes the script. It calls for certain "looks" and sex/age/ethnicity characteristics. Your headshot will be filed with others in categories designed by the talent agency. If you have the right "look" for the part, your resume will be scanned. The ultimate purpose of your headshot is to make the short list and be called for an audition. Having a "perfect" look is impossible. Besides, getting the part is a balance of "the look", your acting training and experience, how well you do in the audition, and your desire. Yes, just plain luck also pays a role.

Remember that the camera is your conduit to the casting director. If you are nervous about 'playing to the camera' I'll work with you. But if you are terrified of it, better find another profession.

Book a Photo Shoot Now

mobile 07977223283

email info@manolo-photography.com

My studio is in London N1 (Shoreditch)

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