Is Your Headshot Up to Par?
Each month Children In Film receives hundreds of submissions for our monthly photo contest. In selecting our winners, we choose photos that would otherwise catch the eye of professionals throughout the industry. We want to provide our members with excellent examples of attention-grabbing headshots so they know what to aim for when creating their own.
So what makes a good headshot worthy of winning the photo contest - or moreover, a photo that will catch the eye of a potential agent, manager or casting director?
Our KidStart Program provides useful information about how to take your own professional looking photos without spending a ton of money. Below is a list of do's and don'ts to keep in mind:
For your main headshot, don't use photos that contain food (especially on the child's face), excessive accessories and props, or other people (such as a cropped photo where the mother's arms can be seen holding the baby).
Do recognize the importance or adequate lighting. Generally, outdoor lighting is preferable, so before going on a shoot, ask your photographer if s/he will be incorporating natural lighting into the shoot. Many times we receive photos that were clearly taken in a studio with a backdrop. This, unfortunately, is not preferred.
Do not use too much makeup. When industry professionals view your headshots, they want to see your child's true face. Light touch up makeup to ensure your child is camera-ready is fine, but stage makeup such as what you would see in a pageant (bright lipstick, eye shadow, heavy blush) should be avoided.
Do not use black and white headshots. Though often very beautiful, black and white photos are out. In the past, black and white shots were submitted simply because it was cost-effective. Today, getting a color headshot made is just as easy as getting one in black and white. Our photo-winner shots are all in color and your submissions should be as well.
Do aim for genuine expressions. A good headshot displays your child's true personality, so look for shots with clear, bright eyes, candid smiles and a sense that your child is engaging with the camera.
To learn more about headshots
