Prep Yourself for a Good Head Shot

Head shots are a powerful way to market yourself, whether you are an actor, model, or even a business person. Quality head shots that flatter the subject can mean the difference between getting hired and being overlooked. A great head shot will convey your talents and make you look your best to potential directors, clients and the public. It will show something about who you are at your core and leave a positive lasting impression.

Preparing for your head shots in advance will result in images that will leave you fulfilled. The most important thing you need to do is plan your ‘looks’. How are you going to present yourself? It is critical going into a shoot that you are clear about what the shots need to say.

1. Clothes

Clothing is a form of expression and the clothes that you pick to wear will reflect your personality in the images.

• Solid colors look best in headshots
• If going with a pattern keep it simple
• Add layers to a simple shirt or blouse
• Make sure clothing is ironed (not even Photoshop can help reduce the wrinkles)
• Choose attire that works for every season

2. Hair & Makeup

Your hair should be in its natural state. The makeup should help the viewer focus on the eyes and the mouth- which are the essence of the headshot. Your headshot should look like the current you. 

• Start with your hair down and towards the end of the shoot put it up in a ponytail for a more casual look
• Bring hair products to tame your hair
• Clean up facial hair
• Make-up should be clean and natural

3. Practice, Practice, Practice!

• Focus on the eyes

Capturing the eyes in a powerful way will draw the viewer into the photo, establishing a strong connection that will speak volumes. Use your eyes to communicate emotion. 

• Watch your angles

Remember that for close up shots, angles will affect the outcome look and feel of your image. Also, watch your head tilt. If you are tilting towards the camera, it’s inviting, warm and confident. If you are angling away, it’s unwelcome and defensive. 

If you want to be taken seriously, you should present yourself seriously. Amateur pictures will make you look like an amateur. It will tell anyone thinking of hiring you for your services that you’re not committed to excellence in your craft. Consider these tips and go get ready for that headshot of yours!

How to Take Proper Measurements for Modeling

As a model, you should be updating your measurements every 6 months at a minimum- although every 3 months is ideal. When it comes to measurements- keep them updated, and keep them accurate! Start with a soft, flexible measuring tape- the kind you would use for a sewing project, or have somebody else take your measurements.

Basic measurements are written as a series of 3 numbers, separated by hyphens. The accepted format requires the following info: Bust-Waist-Hips, in that order. If a model lists their stats as “34-24-35”, that indicates their Bust is a 34, their Waist is a 24, and their Hips are a 35.

How to Take Your Measurements

BUST: Place the measuring tape under your armpits; arms should rest at your sides. Next, measure around the shoulder blades and the fullest part of your breast. The number showing is your “bust measurement.”

WAIST: Locate the slimmest part of your natural waistline, and measure. The number showing is your “waist measurement.”

HIPS: Measure around the largest part of your hips and butt. Do not measure around your hip bone. This measurement will serve as your “hip measurement.”

While the measurements above can apply to both guys and gals, the men have a few more specific measurements they need to know; specifically for suit purposes.   

NECK: Measure around your neck, starting about an inch above where your neck connects to your shoulders, right around the Adam’s apple.

ARM/SLEEVE: For the sleeve measurement, start in the middle of your lower neck between your shoulders. With your hand placed on your hip, extend the tape over your shoulder and then over your elbow to your wrist.

Inseam (Applies to females too): Measure the inside of your leg from just below your crotch to your ankle.

Hope this helps!