FAQ

In the industry, there are typically two types of headshots: A Legit (theatrical) and a Commercial.

Commercial headshots show talent smiling, showing teeth. The lighting is bright and not overly shadowed. Wardrobe is typically bright in color (think jewel and citrus tones) so the actor pops. I will help guide your expression as you want to present a warm, friendly and likable tone in the image.

Legit headshots are theatrical in nature. The whole idea is to show off your personality, that you're a unique human being. With Legit headshots, it's important to know your type. How are you usually cast? The overtone is more moody and expressive. I enjoy the subtle nuance of Legit headshots and help direct talent to achieve a range in expression.

I consider a different look to be a lighting and background change. My Standard Package is a client favorite because it allows for two lighting/background changes and three to four wardrobe changes.

No matter what session you book, I always recommend bringing more wardrobe options than you think you'll need – minimally five to six tops. Start with a basic t-shirt that fits you well. Think about creating a range with sleeve length, texture and necklines. Solid pieces are best. Your wardrobe is a tool, not the subject, so avoid really busy patterns/prints. Logos should be avoided, as well, for copyright purposes.

Avoid plunging V-neck shirts and, unless you plan to do modeling, I do not recommend tank tops. Exposing too much skin beyond your face is distracting. For commercial headshots, I always recommend jewel and citrus tones. For legit headshots, the lighting is more low-key so darker tones work best (grays, navy blue, blacks). Consider bringing a few layered looks. Be sure to bring a pair of jeans or any pants that have pockets (helpful when posing).

Jewelry is typically simple unless it's a critical part of your brand.

Most importantly, bring pieces that flatter you and make you feel good. Try to avoid really worn-out tops and items that wrinkle easily. When you arrive to your session, I'll review your wardrobe, and we'll work together to find the right pieces for each look.

If you wear glasses, make sure that your lenses are anti-glare to ensure minimal glass glare from the lights.

Professional makeup and hair styling is strongly recommended for men and women. My makeup artists know what makeup looks best on camera and will make your features pop and look clean and fresh. Having your makeup professionally done also gives us a greater range to how I light an actor. The artist also will do a hair touch-up so you look your absolute best. Plus, I have the artist right by us during the shoot to do touch-ups. I work with several professional hair and makeup artists who I’ve known for years; they all do amazing work and are so fun to work with. Fees start at $150 for one-look.

All headshot packages include the session time in my natural-light studio, a wardrobe consultation when you arrive, clothing rack, usage of a professional steamer and dressing area, and an online gallery to review proofs. Each package also includes all of the proofs from the session (web-quality files uploaded via dropbox.com), along with one to three professionally retouched images. The images are high-resolution and transferred via digital download with a release that allows you to print your new headshot(s) when and where you'd like. Additional retouched images are available for an additional fee of $39.

Both! It allows for a variety of looks.

It will be if your lenses aren’t anti-glare. Please make certain they are before your session because editing out glass glare can be problematic. If you don’t wear glasses but want to bring some as a prop, you still need to make sure the glasses are anti-glare.

After your session, I will create a proof gallery for you. I include the best from the session. This typically takes from two to three business days but can take up to five. I then send you an online gallery via email. You’ll have 30 days from the time you receive the gallery to place your order. I typically share with clients what my favorites are, and often talent wants an agent to weigh in. Once I receive your order it will take two to three days to retouch images and get them to you via digital transfer (dropbox.com). Your retouched images will be sent to you via wetransfer.com or by another means we both agree to.

You've worked hard to establish yourself as a professional actor. Don't have your headshot be the thing that holds you back. So many actors breaking into the business make the mistake of having an amateur photographer (i.e. friend) take their headshots and then wonder why they're not landing roles, agents and opportunities. Your headshot is your calling card, the first impression professionals receive of you. Don't let it shortchange all that you have to offer!