actor mindset
The thing I want to do the most is show people just how incredible they are.
How? Well, my current medium is photography. And my current group of folks are actors.
We are an odd bunch. Actors simultaneously love the spotlight but will hate being in front of the camera. We are overly self critical in our looks but not our personalities. We want perfection that is highly crafted while feeling effortless and relaxed. We want to look simultaneously young and experienced.
When an actor comes to me for a headshot, I have a very specific job to do that I take incredibly seriously.
I need to provide them with what essentially becomes their logo and main marketing image.
For those who are unfamiliar with the acting world, a headshot is an 8x10 document, either printed or digital, that includes a clear and flattering portrait of the artist with a border and their name/representation logo. That document is submitted or handed in when they audition for jobs. In the digital age, and certainly post-covid, that process has become increasingly digital but the document is still necessary.
Sounds pretty loose doesn’t it? But from what angle? What parts of the body are included? What should I WEAR!?!
All of that is up to you and me. Yes there have been some trends about what is a good headshot and what is maybe less successful.
So my job as the photographer for an actor headshot is not just to provide them with the image for that document. Some photographers might do that but I know what is really needed.
They need an image that encompasses all they are. An image that they are proud and confident in submitting to people who do not know them and have the power of income or destitution in their hands. An image that shows just how beautiful and talented and fun and professional they are.
No pressure.
But in reality, it isn’t that hard for me because I’ve been on both sides of this equation. I know that as an actor I want to feel comfortable and taken care of and, above all, seen in my session. So of course, I try my very best to do that for the actors who sit for me.
Every actor is needed, wanted, and actively sought out. So all we need to do is get you in and have fun so that you can get busy doing what you were meant to do.
Are you ready?
