Preparing For Your Session

Have A Goal | How We Work | What To Wear | Hair & Makeup | More Questions?

Have a Goal

These are some questions to consider (and discuss with your representation, if you’re an actor) prior to your shoot:

How many looks do you need? We need to know this info in advance so we can plan the timing of your session.

If you’ve taken headshots before, what worked well in the past and what did not?

Do you want studio light or natural light, or are you open to either?

For actors: If you have representation, we need to know their needs first and foremost. We cannot stress this enough: you must get as much input as possible from your representation prior to the shoot. A theatrical agent generally wants a VERY different headshot than a commercial agent, for example. Make sure you have discussed specific goals with each agent or manager, and be doubly sure to share them with us prior to your shoot date for best results.

Example photos are very helpful if you can get them — please email these in advance (or bring to your session, if you can’t email them.) Again, we need to know exactly what your representation needs so we can make everyone happy. (Read more about this on our policies page.)

How We Work

Depending on the number of looks you need, an actor’s headshot session generally lasts from 1 – 3 hours (see our rates for more details). Most business & professional portrait sessions, which include one look, take between 30 minutes to an hour. That said, I never rush the process, and shoots are never scheduled one on top of the other.

Accordingly, set aside time in your day to devote full attention to your session. Book your appointment on a day when you can be 100% focused on the job at hand. Ideally you’ll avoid days when you have auditions or other important engagements so you can be “present” and focused on your headshots alone.

Get a full night of sleep beforehand and drink lots of water. It’s important to arrive well-rested, hydrated, and energized; I promise your session will be a fun way to spend your morning or afternoon!

What to Wear

Unless going for a specific “look,” try to choose simple, comfortable clothing that will let you – and not your wardrobe – shine. If you’re uncertain about what to wear, bring several options and we’ll help you choose what will read best on camera.

Steer clear of distracting patterns or prints and avoid logos if at all possible. A “pop” of color can be effective, however — choose the colors that best complement your hair color and eyes. If your clothing is sheer, make sure to bring proper undergarments (undershirts, camisoles, etc.) so you’re not flashing more skin than you expect.

Actors: If we’re going for multiple looks, please bring a few wardrobe basics as well for backup options, like a simple T-shirt in blue, black, brown, grey or white.

For men, a classic crewneck or V-neck T-shirt are strong choices, but make absolutely sure it fits properly or it won’t “read” very well on-camera. Ideally it should be neither skin-tight nor too baggy; not stained or overly stretched out. Women might want to bring a simple but flattering V-neck, jewelneck or boatneck sleeved top that shows your shape but isn’t too clingy. When in doubt, purchase a few simple, inexpensive tees just for your headshot session (and save the receipt in case you don’t need them after all).

Comfortable shoes are a must, because we usually walk and climb stairs to nearby locations and you’ll likely be on your feet for a couple of hours. On the other hand, if you have specific shoes that will help you achieve a desired look, you may bring them too. They might not appear on camera, but they may help you get into character.

Hair & Makeup

A makeup artist (MUA) is optional, but strongly encouraged for best results. We work with a few highly-trained and experienced makeup artists. In addition to makeup application, our MUA also provides light hair and wardrobe styling. Even men can benefit from a MUA’s assistance! Our makeup artist’s rates start at $125 for the first two hours.

If you feel very confident about applying your own makeup, you may come camera-ready. Just keep in mind that casting directors want to see you, not your makeup. Any makeup you apply should highlight your best features and camouflage imperfections while keeping your face fresh. When in doubt, be conservative — heavy undereye liner isn’t ideal, for example, as it makes eyes look smaller on camera, although you might want to bring the eyeliner to apply on the final look if you’re going out for very specific (darker/edgy/troubled) character types.

Many women start with the more commercial/natural/minimal looks and gradually build up to the more theatrical/sexy/dark looks, so bring favorite makeup and hair products to match the wardrobe you’ve chosen. (You’ll have space to lay out your items in the dressing room.) We also have mineral face powder for most skin tones, makeup removal wipes, disposable razors & shaving cream, combs, mirrors, and allergy eye drops for client use.