FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
for Model Headshots
BEFORE THE SHOOT
• How do I book a Model headshot session?
You can give me a call or shoot me an email.
• Do I need to book in advance?
Accommodating shoots needs to be scheduled. Booking four weeks in advance will give me enough time to prep for your ideal location, wardrobe, styles, and any other logistical planning concerns you might have. If you need it sooner, give me a call anyway. I may be able to get you in.
• Will we do an outdoor shoot or an in-studio shoot?
The shoot is all up to you and the look you want us to go for. We can always prep for some studio time indoors, or go on an adventure and take advantage of natural daylight by shooting on location. Just let me know and we’ll get to work.
• How is your retouching?
I have always been a retoucher first and foremost. I us ethe photography as a tool to get me to the best final images. You can review my Retouching Portfolio, and you will see I have the skills to make you look amazing.
GETTING READY
Actor and Model Headshots need to make a good first and lasting impression so that casting directors, modeling agencies, and agents can see that you’re a naturally born star. Pick an outfit that’s comfortable and attractive enough to exude confidence and style. Be wary of picking clothes that are overly distracting, as poor clothing decisions make the photo look tacky and amateurish. You wouldn’t want the clothes to steal focus away from your face, would you?
Some actors also try to mix it up by dressing in costume as a character, but wearing your normal clothes so that you appear as a regular person is always better than trying to land a role by playing a role. You want agencies to hire you and not your character.
I swap backgrounds and lighting depending on your clothing, so bring several outfits (about 3-4 tops and bottoms that we can mix and match) for variety. Just remember to avoid patterned or brightly colored shirts and pants as these are visually distracting and require a great deal of complicated retouching. Solid, earthy tones are best, and please, no third-party logos. Athletes should also consider compression pants or other types of tights to help define shape.
For your modeling pose, research looks on Google to find ones that are visually interesting. You can also look though magazines at the bookstore or head down to the park and/or beach.
Avoid glasses if possible, unless they are needed for that "smart" look. This is because they will not only pick up the reflection of the lights, but they can also distort the sides of the face within the glass. Ideally, find an old pair and remove the lenses—best of both worlds.
Props are great for giving you something to do and hold onto, and they can also add visual interest. For example, athletics could be a baseball, racket, jump rope, or any other non-distracting item. I personally don’t have much here, so if you have anything that could be helpful like dumbbells or kettle bells, then bring them along. For fashion, don’t forget the common accessories like purses, handkerchiefs, hats, etc. Again, reference some existing images and look for ideas that can help personalize your shoot.
AT YOUR PHOTO SESSION
• How long will the session take?
Depending on the complexity of the look you want to go for, photo sessions can go from 1 to 4 hours. That may sound long, but we can collect many different looks for you to choose from.
• How do I pose?
I normally don’t want to pose you as that would probably end up with you in an unnatural position that’s not really you. I do my best to make my clients feel as relaxed as can be so that your natural behavior, mannerisms, and personality will shine forth. It might sound cliché, but seriously, just be yourself and have a heck of a good time. If you want ideas, just do a Google Search and practice in the mirror.
• What will I wear?
In general, it’s best to stick with darker colors as this will highlight your eyes and your brilliant smile rather than your clothes. If you want to wear lighter colors, stay clear of the ones that match your skin tone if you don’t want to look too washed out.
• Anything Else?
You may also want to forego the wacky colors in favor of the ones that help bring out the color of your eyes. For instance, a grey shirt complements blue eyes, while earthy tones are complimentary to brown or green eyes.
Jewelry can be distracting if you wear statement necklaces or elaborate earrings. If you are a female and must wear earrings, they should be studs.
Bring a towel for sweat, as excess shine on the face is troublesome. If you are a female, it would help me a lot if you could bring some type of light foundation or powder.
AFTER THE SHOOT
• When can I see my photos?
Session editing normally takes 2-3 business days. I’ll take the time to go through and find a selection of the best images and give them a quick once over to ensure they are sharp and presentable. You can then review the samples online, and choose the ones you like the best.
• When can I see my final images?
After you have chosen the images you want retouched, this part involves in-depth retouching of blemishes, breakouts, stray hairs and distracting elements in a photo. We’ll make your features pop and bring focus where focus needs to be. Don’t fret—I always make sure that edits are done subtly so that you still look your own beautiful and natural self.
• How can I order my photo prints?
I will contact you to let you know once your final images are ready, and then you can order your prints from me.
Learn More about Actor and Model Headshots in New Haven, Connecticut.