How should the perfect headshot be?

Question

I am clueless,s o can anybody describe the perfect headshot, as int pose, size etc??

Answer 1

A standard headshot is 8x10. Traditionally, they are in black and white, but the trend is now leaning heavily towards color.

Your headshot should look like you, not some glamazoned out airbrushed version. If you get called in for an audition based on your headshot, you need to be able to go in looking exactly like to you do in the photo. Therefore, if you cut/color your hair = new headshots, gain/lose significant weight = new headshots, etc.

Most actors have 2 headshots- a theatrical and a commerical. A theatrical headshot is usually more serious, with a closed mouth expression. A commerical headshot is with an open mouthed smile and much more friendly. The point of having 2 different looks is to be able to submit to different projects that may require different "types".

You don't really "pose" for headshots the way models pose for shoots. You have a general position and usually change your expression more than anything else. You want to convey personality and have that alive look in your eyes. You don't have to be the most beautiful person to have a great headshot that makes an agent pause to look at it and think "wow". It is definiately not easy to get that perfect shot, so it's important to find a good photographer that you feel comfortable with (so that you DON'T look posed and aritficial) and ideally you should get at least 100 shots (or 4-5 rolls of film) out of the session to choose from.

Check out some of these well known photographers (all in NY) webites to get an idea of what a good headshot should look like:

http://www.kriscarrphotography.com/
http://robertkim.com/
http://ronrinaldi.com/
http://www.starkstudio.com/
http://www.jordanmatter.com

Answer 2

In my opinion, you shouldnt really "pose" for your headshot. You should just stand / sit naturally, and maybe do some simple movements . Also, I always find that the CDs love it when you look a bit mischevious. lol
Hope this helped!

Answer 3

Head shots are just that. Up close and personal. A not too busy background is imperative. Also a lot of three quarter views to your face. Straight shots at your face are funerary. Avoid at all cost. Lighting is very important to ad drama. A few different hair styles, a hat or too, a scarf etc. Change of earrings. Different facial emotions without too much simpering or over dramatization. Try not to be giddy, and foolish. Listen and respond to your photographer. If he/she is good they will show you the way.

Answer 4

Ask your actor friends to show their headshot to you.
The size of a headshot is 8"x10," in some cities it's black and white, in other cities they are in color.