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 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.
Still Have Questions?
We’re happy to answer them! Drop us a line or call us at 213-342-1967.
