Preparing For A Successful Headshot Session with James

My goal is to capture the real you and ultimately find you work. After all, this is an investment so let’s get it right from the start and for that preparation is key.  My sessions are relaxed and fun so no need to be nervous.

• Think about your casting types.  Think about the roles you have played or would like to play.   Where you would like to take things in the future and your goals.  Speak to colleagues, friends, tutors, and peers to get honest opinions.  The more information you can give me on this the better.

• If you have headshots from previous sessions bring them along with you.  It is useful to see what has worked and what has not in the past.

• For clothing bring along as much variation as possible.  You want to bring clothes that fit you well and make you feel relaxed.  An important TIP: cheap tops can look cheap!  You want to look confident, professional and successful, so if it’s cheap, old and a bit out of shape, it could spoil the session.  Invest in some better quality clothing and keep the labels in as you can always return them afterward.  Think about necklines and colours especially ones that bring out your eye colour.   Feel free to bringing some layers such as a couple of different jackets as this could be helpful in bringing a different element to some shots.  Please make sure the clothes are neat and not creased.

• Avoid any jewellery such as necklaces and earrings as it will distract from your face.  

• For make up a natural/nude look is best and how you would turn up for an audition. Any blemishes can be taken care of in post-production.  Please do not fake tan unless you have it professionally done, as it can look patchy and uneven.  Fake lashes are to be avoided as they look too heavy and can obstruct your eyes.

• For hair, you do not want it over-styled. Go for natural and a style that will compliment your face.  DO NOT get a haircut or a new colour the day before the shoot.  Give yourself a few days breathing room to avoid any disasters.

• Practice looking at your face in the mirror and at different angles.  Get used to doing different expressions and smiles. You are a unique person so embrace that slightly wonky nose or that eye which is slightly bigger than the other or that scar you have had since a kid.  All of this is your character and is ultimately what will get you a casting.

• Speaking of energy, come to the shoot with plenty of positive energy.  I have been in this industry for over 20 years and have heard so many times “I hate having my headshots taken” or “I look awful in headshots” etc. This will put you in a negative space even before we have taken the first picture.  It’s good to share your thoughts with me but there is no point dwelling on it for the entire shoot.  The trick is to get into character or pretend this is a performance for a couple of hours.  It’s my job to make you look as castable and flattering as possible.  You will find the session is very relaxed and you will soon realise there is nothing to be scared about.

• Plan your journey the night before.  Public transport cannot always be relied on, especially during the weekend so check your route and arrive with plenty of time to spare.  The last thing you wanted to do is arrive stressed and sweaty.

Above all enjoy the shoot and have fun.  I look forward to meeting you and creating a great range of headshots for you.

Speak to James and book your shoot today.