A bad headshot can cost you auditions, agents, and even direct bookings, and most actors never find out why. After 40-plus years and nearly 1,300 bookings, I’ve seen the same headshot mistakes over and over. Casting directors and agents often look at your photo for just a few seconds, so it has to do its job fast. In this video, I’ll show you four mistakes that quietly hold actors back, and exactly how to fix them before your next session.
IN THIS VIDEO YOU WILL LEARN:
✅ How to stand so your headshot doesn’t look like a passport photo or a mug shot
✅ Why knowing your type matters more than looking your best
✅ The technique I use to get an alive look that grabs attention
✅ Why your wardrobe should work like nice wallpaper
✅ What to avoid wearing so people look at your face, not your clothes
✅ The best kind of background for your headshot
RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS VIDEO:
Need a new headshot? Don’t waste time or money. Ask photographers these 8 questions before choosing one: https://youtu.be/_Fh3CU_K-w8
▶️ Watch: Acting Headshot Tips: 4 Mistakes That Cost You Auditions
I LOVE HEARING FROM MY ACTING FAMILY
❤️ JOIN THE CONVERSATION What’s the best headshot advice you’ve ever gotten, or a headshot mistake you learned from the hard way? Share it in the comments section of my YouTube Channel so we can all learn from each other.
I was ready to create a new headshot. The photographer, David Blecman recommended
a makeup artist for me to work with during the shoot. She was really good. After putting
on my makeup she told me to have a great session.
I Wanted to Shoot Both Inside and Outside
For my new headshot, I wanted options and asked if we could shoot
both inside and outdoors. That was our plan. Shooting outside is trickier
than working in a more controlled studio environment. Depending on the sun
situation our eyes can squint a little and our hair can blow out of place. But,
I like the feel of outside photos.
I Never Experienced This Before
Every time I worked with a makeup artist for a headshot session, he/she would stay
for the entire shoot. That is why I never even thought to ask how long she would
stay.
We Shot Indoors First
I am so happy that the photographer suggested we shoot inside first. As it turned out,
after looking at all of the photos from the session, I actually liked the indoor shots the best.
That was very fortunate because none of the outdoor photos were usable. My hair was blown
around so much, I looked a mess. The photographer could have used his editing program,
but it would have taken forever to fix all of the windblown hairs. Had the makeup artist been
with me, she could have fixed the problem during the session.
My Suggestion When Working With a Makeup Artist
When you hire a makeup artist for your headshot session (which I think is a must) make sure
that he/she will stay for the entire session. Or, at least, stay for the beginning of the shoot if
working in a studio. That will guarantee that your hair and wardrobe are looking great during
your session.
HAVE YOU EVER MADE A MISTAKE WHILE WORKING ON A HEADSHOT?
If you ever made a mistake while getting a headshot done,
share your experience with us, so we can learn from you. Share your experience
in the comment section of the YouTube Channel page.
Another Helpful Video to Watch
Have Imposter Syndrome While Acting One Solution
Click Here to Watch
SUBSCRIBE TO THE ACTING AND MODELING QUICK TIPS CHANNEL
Continuing to learn about the industry is essential to having success. That is why spending time watching helpful acting, modeling and industry related videos is so important.
You should Subscribe to the channel and click the notification bell. This way you will always know when a new videos has been uploaded.
LIKE AND SHARE THE LINK
If you find a video helpful, LIKE IT. This is a great way to let others know the video has value. And, share the link with fellow actors.
https://www.youtube.com/c/aaronmarcusactingandmodelingquicktips
The point of having the acting and modeling quick tips channel is to build a community of actors and models sharing information and helping each other.
I look forward to talking with you again soon.
Aaron
One thought on “Bad Headshots Actually Prevent Actors From Working 4 Tips To Create Effective Shots”