HOW TO PREPARE FOR YOUR ACTOR AND PERFORMER HEADSHOT SESSION
In this guide I’ll cover the main points to help you prepare for your actor & performer headshot session.
Please also take a look at my general FAQ’s here: Actor & Performer FAQ's
If you have any questions that I’ve not answered here, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
I’m always happy to work with you to ensure the best outcome from your session.
WHERE IS THE STUDIO?
The studio address is:
Unit 9c Meadow Works
Court Street
Trowbridge
Wiltshire
BA14 8BR
Your confirmation mail has buttons to click for directions using Google Maps and What3words.
If for any reason you have difficulty finding the studio, please call me on 075 409 34566.
WHERE CAN I PARK?
You can park directly outside the studio on evenings (after 6pm) and weekends.
There are several public car parks within a few minutes walk from the studio. The nearest is:
Court Street Car Park, Court Street, Trowbridge, BA14 8BR
Directions to the car park are on the below links:
WHAT ABOUT PUBLIC TRANSPORT?
The studio is just under a 10 minute walk from the train station. Let me know if you are arriving by train, and have alot of bags. It may be easier for me to collect you.
OK - LET'S GET DOWN TO THE IMPORTANT STUFF
MAKEUP & SKIN
Try to get a good night's sleep in the days leading up to your shoot. Retouching in post production will help reduce any bags under the eyes, but it’s always better to arrive energised and ready to go!
Try to avoid alcohol in the days leading up to your shoot - sorry!
Hydrate! Try to drink plenty of water in the days leading up to your shoot - your skin will thank you!
Don't be tempted to try new makeup or skincare products in the days leading up to the shoot just in case you get a reaction. Stick to known makeup and skincare products.
Don’t worry about applying concealer on spots. Everyone has temporary skin blemishes which will be easily removed in post production. It’s much easier to do this when concealer hasn't been used.
Avoid going over the top with makeup. It’s better to keep makeup natural, minimal, and subtle. Wear what you would usually wear to a casting. Less is more, and you can always add more makeup as we go along if you need to or want to.
Wear makeup that works for your own skin tone, and be careful of foundation that does not match your body as this will be very noticeable.
If possible, please avoid wearing anything too glossy. A matt finish will look better under the studio lights. If possible bring matte powder that matches your skin tones, as this will help reduce any skin shine.
You are welcome to do your makeup at the studio, but it’s better to arrive ready to go so that you don't use too much of your session time for this. If you need to apply makeup at the studio, you are welcome to use my makeup area with hollywood mirror, etc
Don’t use fake tan unless professionally applied. It can look patchy with uneven skin tones when shooting closeup headshots
HAIR
If you have long hair, think about any variations that may work for you (hair up, or down, etc). Variety is good!
DO NOT get your hair cut, or coloured, just before the shoot. This is risky as more often than not a haircut doesn't turn out exactly as planned. Try to leave several days between getting your hair done and the shoot, just in case things go wrong. It will also give you a chance to get used to styling it to look your best.
If you’d like to straighten or curl your hair during the shoot for a variety of looks, please let me know. You can use the makeup area (with power) and hollywood mirror. Obviously, the time taken for you to do this is within your session booked, so it’s better to book a longer session if you’d like to do this.
Please remember to bring any hair accessories and styling products that you may need to style your hair! Don’t forget your hairbrush!
Gents - If you’d like to shave during the session for more than one look, please let me know. There won't be time for this during an express session, as your skin will need some time to settle down.
JEWELLERY
If you want to wear jewellery, I’d recommend keeping it simple and subtle. Try to avoid anything that would distract from the most important of your headshot - YOU!
WHAT CLOTHES SHOULD I BRING
The short answer to this question is AS MUCH VARIETY AS POSSIBLE!
It’s always better to have too many options to choose from, than too few. Preparation is important!
Whatever you decide to bring, please ensure it isn’t stuffed into a carrier bag or backpack! Creased clothes aren't a good look for your professional headshots! Iron them, fold them neatly, and if possible use a garment carrier. I do have a large garment steamer at the studio which you are welcome to use, but we don't want to waste your session time steaming your clothes!
Bring clothes that make you feel good!
STYLES
Cheap clothing can often look cheap. Many of the materials used in today's cheaper fast fashion items are quite thin, and don't hang or fit too well. Remember, you are trying to create a successful and professional image.
Something as simple as the neckline of your t-shirt having lost its shape could spoil an image.
Few people have the budget to go out and buy a whole new wardrobe. Some people may decide to go out and buy several really nice items that are ideal for their photoshoot and leave the tags on to return later.
Of course, I’m not suggesting you consider doing that ;-)
Avoid bold patterns, stripes, prints, or anything with a logo.
Whatever you choose to bring, simplicity normally works very well. Layers are great! Jackets and blazers add extra depth to an image and look great. Hoodies can also work depending on your casting, and can add extra variety.
Tops or jumpers with some texture always work well.
Ladies - If you are bringing anything off the shoulder, please don't forget to bring a strapless bra! Avoid “strappy” tops
Bra’s - Please bring an appropriately coloured bra for the tops you will be wearing. Don't plan on wearing a black bra under a thin white top!
Bring clothes with a variety of neck lines. You’ll be surprised how much a neckline can change the whole look of an image. A simple unfussy neckline works best.
COLOUR
The most important thing here is that the colour choice isn't overpowering and detracts from your face.
You probably already know what colours suit you and your skin tone. Have you ever worn a certain colour and everyone compliments you?
Solid colours are the best option.
Earthy, pastels, and neutral tones are a safe bet, and generally work well.
Rich deep colours such as blue, navy, green, mustard can work well.
Avoid very strong colours such as bright red, bright yellow, etc as these can be overpowering and distracting.
Pastels, pale blue, and pinks can give a more youthful appearance.
Black generally works well, but make sure you bring plenty of other colours as well.
White can work, depending on your skin tone. Sometimes white can look washed out, but can be good when layered with another top or jacket. If in doubt, bring it!
PRACTICE!!
Use a mirror and your phone to practice looks and angles and expressions before your shoot. Concentrate on your eyes, and aim towards a strong but subtle expression that will grab the viewers attention.
AND FINALLY, THE MOST IMPORTANT THING TO BRING ….
YOUR POSITIVE ENERGY!
Allow plenty of time to arrive at your session ready to go. Allow for any travel delays, so that you arrive on time and unflustered.
Plan to arrive rested, energised, and ready to go.
Oh, and enjoy yourself!