Let’s be real for a moment. Headshots. I know they can be a source of stress for actors—I hear it all the time! While I leave the whole ‘acting and auditioning’ part of the job to you, I can certainly relate to the pressure. I always get nervous right before a headshot session begins, because my goal is to deliver a perfect photo, hopefully like these.
That’s right, even us photographers get pre-shoot jitters!
Why? Because I care! I really want to capture the absolute best, most authentic, and most “bookable” you. My goal isn’t just to take a picture; it’s to create a powerful marketing tool that gets you noticed and gets you hired.
So, after countless hours behind the lens, sharing laughs, witnessing “aha!” moments, and occasionally rescuing a wardrobe malfunction, I’ve gathered a few confessions and secrets. These are the things I truly wish every actor knew before stepping into my studio.
Consider this your cheat sheet to not just surviving, but owning your next headshot session (especially if that session is with me, wink wink).
If you want to know more about how to prepare and what to wear for an Actor’s Headshot session – read this guide here
1. Relax, You’re Not Alone in Being Nervous (I Probably Will Be Too!)
If you arrive feeling tight, awkward, or just a little overwhelmed, please know that’s normal for everyone. We’ll start easy, because I completely understand that feeling.
My Confession: I’m always a little bit nervous before a shoot. Not because I don’t know what i’m doing, but because I always want to create the best headshots I can. I’m not just pressing a button; I’m working to create a comfortable, fun, and collaborative space where you can genuinely shine. We’ll chat, we’ll listen to some music and we will have a chat about the images you want to create. Think of me as your biggest fan with a really good camera.
2. Wardrobe Worries? Bring It All (Almost!)
Please bring more than one outfit! Your clothes are super important. They show casting directors your ‘type’ (the kind of person you can play). A headshot is not just a pretty picture; it must look like the specific character a casting director needs.
My Hot Take: Bring options! Lots of them. The more the better. Different necklines, textures, and colours that make your eyes pop. Think about the roles you usually get called for, and the roles you want to get called for. We’ll look at everything and pick out the best options together. All I ask is that the clothes are clean and as crease free as possible. small marks can be removed whilst editing but removing creases and large marks isn’t great.
3. You’ll See the Magic Happen (No Blind Shooting Here!)
Some photographers like to keep all the images under wraps until the very end. Not me! I’m a firm believer in instant gratification and, more importantly, collaboration.
My Process: As we shoot, we’ll pause frequently to review the images. This isn’t just for you to marvel at your own gorgeousness (though that’s a bonus!); it’s so we can adjust, refine, and ensure we’re on the right track. See a look you love? Let’s lean into it. See something that feels a bit off? Tell me! By checking the images often, we make sure we get the exact shots you want.
4. Your Input Isn’t Just Valued, It’s Essential!
We work together as a team! I don’t give orders. I can advise on poses but you know your face and your roles you are going for better than anyone.
My Mantra: Speak up. If a pose feels uncomfortable, if you have a specific angle you prefer, or if you’re aiming for a particular expression, please tell me. The more you communicate, the better images we can create that show your true self and you will have headshots that you’ll absolutely love to send out.
5. Prep Your Poses (But I Still Got You!)
I will guide you through every pose, and I can show you example pictures as we go. But if you have time, it’s great if you can find a few headshots you like in advance.
Your Homework: If you see a pose, angle, or feeling you love in another actor’s headshot, save it! This helps us start quickly and find your best looks faster. I also have example images you can look at and you might be inspired to try poses you had never thought of.
So, there you have it. A peek behind the curtain from your friendly headshot photographer here in the North East. My biggest wish is that you arrive feeling prepared, excited, and ready to collaborate. When you do, we’ll not only capture incredible images, but we’ll also have a genuinely good time doing it.
Ready to banish those old headshots and create something that feels like you? Let’s chat!
