Can I audition without a headshot?

Bringing a hard copy of your headshot is not always mandatory in the film, TV, and commercial world, but many audition postings ask you to bring them, so you should always have some on hand.

Do I need a headshot to start acting?

​Actor headshots are the single most important marketing material you'll need to start booking acting jobs. They show casting directors what you look like so they can decide whether to bring you (or someone else) in for the audition.

Why do you need a headshot for an audition?

Typically, casting directors use headshots to help them decide whether applicants have the right “look” and charisma for a given role. Acting headshots focus on showcasing the subject's facial features, emotional range, and ability to nail one certain expression in their photos.

Do famous actors still need headshots?

Getting that smirk right can tell casting directors something more about you. So, do not be afraid to try different photos if the ones you put out there into the industry are not working for you. So, yes, actors still do use headshots. That has not changed for decades or for the foreseeable future.

What to do when you don t have a professional headshot?

How to Have Your Headshot Standout to Casting

What is the no headshot rule?

The NHL defines Rule 48.1 as follows: A hit resulting in contact with an opponent's head where the head was the main point of contact and such contact to the head was avoidable is not permitted.

Can I take professional headshot with my iPhone?

You can 100% take a selfie headshot using an iPhone or other smartphone, but the results from using your forward-facing camera will be higher-quality. The front-facing camera on your phone (not the selfie camera) is a higher-quality lens that produces a MUCH better photo with less distortion of your face.

Should I smile in my acting headshot?

The commercial acting headshot expression is all about being warm, friendly and inviting. One thing I often tell my clients is not to smile in front of the camera, but to smile into the camera. You'd be amazed how this little difference in thought makes you more connected in your photos.

What makes a bad headshot?

Lack Focus. Often times bad headshots will lack focus, have too much going on in the background, and not do a good job of showing off their eyes. In some cases, it may be because they are looking down or away from the camera—in either case this is very similar to squinting.

Should I smile in my headshot?

Yes, you can smile in a professional headshot. However, really, there are no rules. It really depends on the purpose of the photo and the energy, or vibe, that you want to convey.

Should you look directly at the camera for an audition?

Here is the rule – we need to see your eyeballs, we need to see them like we see Greta's above. We need to see all of them, all the time. So the first part of a successful audition is putting your eyeline as close to camera as you possibly can. BUT never look straight down the lens!

Should you smile in audition photos?

“Images without good facial expression always fall flat for audition photos. Directors need to be able to see what you look like in full smile, in full joy of movement. Even if you don't really like your smile, I tell all my clients that you need to use at least one in their packages.”

How do you take a headshot by yourself?

What type of headshots work best for auditions?

It should be a recent head and shoulders shot that reflects what you look like. Keep your appearance as neutral as possible. Remember, a casting professional wants to see the 'real' you. Wear something simple and avoid props, hats, distracting backgrounds and accessories.

Why are headshots so expensive?

Not only is the initial purchase costly, but there are repairs, maintenance, and insurance costs to account for too. Very often, photographers will need to travel to a specific location for a shoot, which also costs money. Most headshot photography costs include travel, which can drive up the total price.

Can a selfie be a headshot?

You might think you can do a selfie, but not for a great headshot. Selfie makes an awkward or emotionally blank face, and you won't be making a positive impression. You need a live human to interact with, a person who can keep your brain spinning while pushing the button on the camera.

What should you avoid in a headshot?

How should I wear my hair for headshots?

Hair up – If possible, tying your hair will slim down your face and your neck. This also opens your face more for your headshot to stand out. Curling Hair – Some curling is good but don't go too crazy with the curls. Again, you want to make sure the headshot looks like you.

What color is best to wear for headshots?

Solid and neutral colours always work well as the eye is used to seeing them and they have little chance of overwhelming the frame. Light neutral shades include white and cream, while dark ones include navy and black. Neutrals are timeless, non-competing and emotionless.

What is the perfect headshot for acting?

For the most part, a great headshot is from the chest up with good lighting on the face with little dramatic shadows unless you feel the roles you're going for fit that type of look. Three quarter or half body shots can be good for print but no extreme close-ups.

Should I wear glasses in my acting headshot?

Glasses. If you usually wear glasses, you should wear them for some of your headshots. The lenses of glasses make taking pictures tricky, though. Clear lenses will occasionally reflect light, which can be distracting and block your face.

Can you pose in a headshot?

To start, there is absolutely NOTHING wrong with using the standard headshot pose for your headshot session. Simply straighten your back, turn your chest 10 to 45 degrees from the camera, and lean slightly toward the camera.

Can you have hands in a headshot?

One hand is usually partially hidden, I recommend having that hand closer to the camera so that the fully exposed hand does not appear too large. For a more animated look in a wider portrait, I like to have the subject look like they are telling a story. Many people speak with their hands.