Putting Headshots in Focus

Frequently, when prospective students visits the Conservatory to learn more about our programs and the training they need to have a competitive career in the industry, they are ALSO in the process of getting their first headshot and ask me for the name of reputable photographers. And my response is always – “Hold your horses!”

Before spending the money and time to have your headshots done, you need to know your marketing objective – what you need the photo to be and to do. At the Conservatory, I teach the Business of Acting class, and we devote four hours just to the headshot and resume - along with the rest of the 40-hour class about marketing in general, industry standards and marketing objectives.

A big part of developing your marketing plan is: figuring out the image that will suit you best:
your type. An elusive subject that becomes clearer as you train and develop as an actor. It's very difficult to accurately pin down your type until you begin to explore the craft.

Lots of folks have a picture of themselves to hand out at auditions. Pros have a carefully crafted marketing piece that is well thought out and represents them perfectly.

I also do answer that initial question - my recommendations for photographers are: Clinton Brandhagen and Joe Henson.