A headshot is every actor’s calling card. It’s what compels casting agents to take a closer look and consider prospective candidates for a role. As a photographer, you can take eye-catching photographs that help your clients attract the attention of casting directors for all the right reasons. Here are three suggestions to ensure that your headshots look their best.

How to Take Acting Headshots

1. Capture Their Truest Expressions

The best headshots capture your subjects looking their most natural. They aren't overly airbrushed, although your clients may appreciate retouched imagery to eliminate blemishes or other slight imperfections. Stress the importance of letting that authenticity shine in every picture, which should help your clients feel more comfortable. That will translate into the photographs you take. 

A person's eyes are typically the most important aspect. That's where casting directors may catch a glimpse of just what they're looking for by a certain glint or expression. Encourage your subjects to relax, focus, and bring the best version of themselves to the photography session.

2. Ensure They're Dressed Right

What your subject wears matters, even if the entire outfit isn’t visible in each shot. The key is to aim for subtlety and simplicity, both of which will bode well for the end result of each photograph. 

Advise your subjects to wear colors that don’t pop too much and aren't wildly patterned or overly bold. All of these can be disruptive and take away from the main highlight of the photograph, which is their face. Solid shirts with minimal texture are best. Recommend soft colors, but advise against white since it can be too bright and overwhelming in a headshot. 

3. Consider Your Lighting Options

As a photographer, you're primarily focused on calling attention to your subject's face. You can enhance it best when you make lighting a priority. In most cases, natural light is best because it mirrors the effect of the sun on their complexion. It also minimizes the likelihood of dark, distracting shadows that can otherwise take the focus away from the eyes. 

If you can’t take pictures outside, consider a studio with plenty of natural lighting to replicate those conditions and take headshots that look as fresh and natural as possible.
 

If you need a beautiful spot where you can take headshots of your clients, visit studio ONE. Serving clients throughout the Centennial area of Colorado, this 1,300-square-foot photography studio offers plenty of natural light that helps you shine in the best and most authentic light. Visit the website for more information, or call (720) 480-6783 to book an appointment.