WIL LUGO, PHOTOGRAPHER
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Tampa Headshots Blog

Tampa Headshots answers basic beginner questions regarding headshots. Questions like... What is a headshot? What is a headshot used for? How many images do I need? What should I wear?

 

I've received some inquiries from young ladies and men alike that want to give the modeling/acting career a try. Of course, they have questions about headshots and comp cards. Questions like... What is a headshot? What what are they used for? How many do I need? Basic questions that many have when starting out. So I decided to make this blog addressing some of these basic beginner questions.

 

First let's start out with... What is a headshot?

A headshot is a photograph of your face. The image should try to capture your character and what you truly look like. Which means go light on the makeup. You want your images to show the best natural looking you.

Also, consider the cropping of your photos. I've seen really tight close up shots, cropped at the head, and from the chest up. My preference is from the chest up. I feel showing from the chest and above gives agents and their clients a little more insight to more than just your face. This is especially true for actor headshots because they normally only use one image (a headshot) on the comp card versus models that get to show more of themselves with multiple photos on the back of the card.

 

Cropped head

Close-up

Chest and up

 

What is a headshot used for?
A Headshot is used as an actor/model's business card. Normally 8" x 10" in size and printed on thick glossy card stock. Actors/Models give these cards to their agents and agents use them to submit to their clients in order to book work.

 

How many images do I need?

There are two types of headshots: commercial and theatrical

 

 

Commercial headshots should convey a feeling of being friendly, happy, attractive and approachable. You should smile and show your teeth in these photos.

 

Theatrical headshots are more serious. They show your character and personality. Take these without smiling.

 

If you are a guy. You should have headshots showing a cleaned shaved face as well as additional headshot with a short trimmed and groomed beard.

 

What do I wear to my headshot session?

Keep it simple. Wear solid colors. Textures are fine. Try to avoid white or black unless wearing it underneath your main clothes. White can sometimes be challenging to photograph because it is easy to wash out. Meaning it can become too bright in the photo and black can become really dark. Try colors that bring out your eyes. Ultimately, wear colors that look good on you and make you feel great. Your positive attitude will show in the pictures resulting in great images.

I hope this information is helpful. I do want to stress that if you are going into the modeling/acting career, it is very important to have a great headshot. Ask a paid working actor/model. It really is your foot in the door.

If you guys have any questions, please comment below. If there are any topics you would like me to blog about also comment below. I'm always looking for a good subject to blog about.

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