It’s no secret that my business really came to be the first time around because I went to school at a conservatory where every other weekend, there was a student recital or performance that needed advertisements. I spent many early Saturday mornings with people I love dearly capturing their headshots and promotional portraits while at Shenandoah. To say now that this kind of photography is one of my favorites is an understatement. There’s something really fun about getting to celebrate and capture someone’s personality and artistic expression! For me as a photographer, these sessions are fun but for the actor or performer behind the camera they can be stressful! I wanted to share 3 quick tips to help make your headshot session run a bit smoother for both of us!
#1 – Have multiple outfits prepared. Bringing multiple outfits helps make sure we get multiple looks for you. I definitely encourage a more “dressy” or formal look like a button down for men or dress for the ladies as well as a more casual look – a solid color t-shirt or long-sleeve shirt is usually a great bet here. For both outfits for headshots, the more straightforward the better – solids are generally the best pick so they don’t detract from anything else going on in the headshot (i.e. your beautiful face!). If you’re doing some more fun promotional shots, feel free to bring a more exciting outfit!
#2 – Bring out your natural beauty with light make up. Speaking of your beautiful face, I highly recommend having make up done for these images. While I’m not usually an advocate of makeup (I LOVE the natural look), for something like this having your best face on is smart. In my opinion, full stage makeup isn’t necessary but covering acne and working to bring out your natural beauty is worth it. Most actors/performers usually feel comfortable with doing their own make up but if you’re not sure how much is too much or how to best bring out the natural beauty, tell me! I have some great recommendations for MUAs in the area to help with these kinds of shoots! (And don’t forget to bring your make up with you so you can touch up as we go!).
#3 – Be prepared for some “boring” shots. Although I always try my best to make shoots fun, headshots can be a little boring for some people. If we’re talking straight headshots – like the ones you’ll hand over to a director – we have to work to get some very standard posing and lighting during our session as we’re working to create a very specific type of image. If we combine your session with some general promotional shots, we have more flexibility to be creative in some of the images – more beautiful landscapes, fun posing and outfit choices! For first timers getting headshots, the sessions might feel a little more dry – and like we’re doing the same thing over and over, but I promise- there is a reason!
I strive to capture who you are as an artist in your headshots and promotional images. When you show up more aware of what to expect and know how to prepare for your session, it means we can do that so much faster + in a much smoother fashion. I hope these tips help you know what to expect during our headshots session!
Still not sure what to wear or bring with you? Send me a note! I’m here to help you before, during and after your portrait session with me!
xoxo
Kristina
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