Fix your head!

Sorry to be missing in action, I was down in Guatemala doing some work. Happy to be home!

All actors, performers and speakers need a good photo. And, just as important, a current photo. I want to make a few suggestions that will help you have a good headshot.

While many casting directors and theaters still ask you to come in with a  headshot, our photos are also being used in cyber land. Casting directors and companies often ask that the headshot be sent electronically, or will visit your website to check out your picture. As a result, a 8 X 10 photo,  (the industry standard), will often be viewed in a presentation that is about 2 inches square. So I suggest that either you have at least 2 headshots ready, or that you have one great one that can be used in a variety of settings. So here are some keys to s good headshot, given the ideal of it being used in multiple venues.

IT IS A HEADSHOT!- 3/4 shots, full body shots, shoulders and head all may work in a printed 8 X 10, but when reduced, your face may disappear. So try and have your face the featured item in the frame.

BORDERS- Artistically delightful, but in cybeland space counts, skip the white edges and borders.

MY EYES HURT- Keep any background clean, simple, and not too busy.

WASHED OUT- Forget muted tones, keep things crisp and vibrant. Even with a black and white shot, make the black and white have stark contrast.

I WANT YOU!- Your face, your eyes, expression should be the focal point of any picture. No one will cast you for what you are wearing in the picture. Of course clothes choices are important, especially in color photos, but you are the main part of the photo.

And please keep the shot current! Nothing is more frustrating than looking at a headshot of a person, calling them in for a role, and finding out the photo was 20 years old! Also, looking your best in the photo is great, but make sure you look like you!

J.T. Turner
The Actors Sensei