What is a bad headshot?

Bad Lighting: If your headshot has poor lighting, meaning shadows under your eyes, bright spots in the background, harsh shadows, etc., it will look like you didn't invest much into your headshot. Therefore, casting directors will assume you won't invest much into their production either.

What is considered a good headshot?

In general, a good headshot is: chest up with good lighting on your face, and no strong dramatic shadows—unless you are going in for “The Phantom of the Opera.” Three-quarter shots are good for print, and extreme close-ups are good for, well, nothing.

Is a selfie a bad headshot?

Selfies distort the face. OK, this is an extreme example, but even high-quality camera phones in portrait mode are likely to make just one facial feature the star of the show. Your nose. More importantly, a selfie headshot will signal that you don't take yourself seriously as a professional.

What not to put in a headshot?

What should a professional headshot look like?

Stand up straight and pull your shoulders back, angle your body slightly away from the camera, avoid clothing that is too tight or too loose, choose clothing that flatters your body type, use a professional photographer who knows how to use lighting and camera angles to create flattering images, avoid shooting ...

Anatomy of a Headshot

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.

How do you take an attractive headshot?

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.

What is the best color to wear for a headshot?

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 color should you not wear in a headshot?

In general, I recommend staying away from white and other pale colors as the main color (pink, pale yellow, light green, sky blue, etc.). They can overexpose, distract from your face, and sometimes even make your skin tone look paler than it is.

Is it OK to wear white for a headshot?

It is recommended to stay away from wearing pure white-colored clothing for headshots. White clothing can overexpose as well as be distracting because of color casts.

Do headshots need to look at the camera?

The subject doesn't need to be looking at the camera, it can be a full-body shot, the subject can be wearing anything they want, the lighting can be as shadowy or bright as you want, etc. Headshots have very specific rules which are covered below.

How do you prepare for a headshot?

What do casting agents look for in a headshot?

Your face and body should face primarily towards the front. While you can experiment with different angles, be sure to let casting directors and hiring managers see your entire face and get a sense of your face shape. You should also show both eyes in all your headshots.

How many looks should I get for headshots?

For actors, two Looks is what I consider the absolute minimal for professional headshots in NYC. Actors need to showcase their versatility(or type) and are often going out for a variety of roles. It helps if you have two headshots to choose from when you get ready to send your headshot out or attend a casting.

How tight should a headshot be?

This is called your "headshot crop," and it's generally best to have your headshot taken fairly tight, from about chest up. However, you should always ask your photographer to take at least a few shots further out because some casting directors want to see your body type, and a wider shot can help with that.

How should I wear my hair for a professional headshot?

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.

How do you look thinner in headshots?

Lean forward.

Most people, because they are uncomfortable with having their picture taken, will lean away from the camera. This causes you to sit at an unflattering angle. It might sound counterintuitive, but leaning towards the camera actually helps you look thinner.

What not to wear for a photo shoot?

Is a headshot just your head?

Headshots Can Be More Than Just Heads

Depending on the needs of your client, headshots don't have to be only the head and shoulders. Headshots can include the chest, upper torso or even full body. Again, the primary determining factor is USE not cropping.

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 wear black in a headshot?

You absolutely can where black in a headshot, although there are a few things to consider. The point of your headshot is that you stand out, so with that in mind: if you have darker skin tones and you want to wear black, in my opinion, you would most likely need to make sure your background is bright.

How should I smile for a headshot?

You want to look engaging in your photos so work that smile into your eyes. Your cheeks will raise and your eyes should relax and squint just a tiny bit as you smile naturally. You want to smile with your upper teeth either apart from the lower teeth or just touching your lower lip (see photos above).

Is it better to stand or sit for headshots?

Most people prefer to stand for their headshots, but sitting can be a good option if you're uncomfortable posing standing up or if you have a lot of wrinkles or scars on your neck that you'd rather not show. When standing, try to relax and keep your shoulders down; don't hunch over or put your hands in your pockets.