Headshot Tips

A headshot is generally defined as a photograph in which the focus is the model's face. In industry terms, a headshot is a glossy photo of the dimensions 8" x 10" that has images on both sides. While one side is a full facial shot, the other side is a collage of three or more photos, which are a depiction of the different characters that the model may want to play. Along with the headshot, you may also have to send out your resume and your contact details. As with other forms of photography, there are some important tips that you should keep in mind regardless of whether you are a model or a photographer.

Headshot Tips for Photographers

For first time photographers who do not have much experience with headshots, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. These headshot photography tips have less to do with actual technique of photography and more to do with the things that you will need to focus on. This is a good beginner's tip to photography for headshots.

• While taking close up shots or headshots, remember that the angle from which you will take the photograph will affect the shot a lot. For women, it may be a good idea to take a slightly high angle shot as it makes their eyes appear larger and gives them a more vulnerable look. For men take a slightly tilted low angle shot as this can provide the illusion of strength.
• One of the most important tips is to focus on the eyes. Your model's eyes are the most important part of the photo. They will be the focus of the photograph and need to reflect the model's personality.
• As a photographer, it is up to you to get the right expression from your model. Try to shoot as naturally as possible. Have a conversation with them constantly, get them to laugh for headshot with a natural smile, ask thoughtful questions for a more serious look.
• Adding a hair light or a head light can create slight halo behind the subject that can add depth to the shot. Also use diffused lighting to hide any flaws on the skin. This also helps create a gentler look.

These are just some of the tips that a photographer will find useful while clicking headshots. With experience and time, every photographer adds to his repertoire skills that help him click better photographs.

Headshot Tips for Models

Most people who are getting headshots clicked are entrants to the fashion or movie world and looking at improving prospective agents, scouts, casting directors, etc. It is important for these people to portray the image that they would like to be identified with. There are certain tips to keep in mind when you go to click these photographs. These important tips for portrait poses are mentioned below. These tips will ensure that your photographs stay true to the person you are and at the same time impress the person flipping through the photos.

• Firstly, remember that it is important for your personality to shine through your photos. While you may want to portray your glamorous best, the fact remains that headshots are not for your beauty queen pose. These are the photos from which the casting director gets an accurate picture of you.
• While getting your headshot clicked, remember to dress appropriately. Do not go overboard with bling or glitter. Stick to solid colors and ditch patterns in favor of these solids. Do not wear white or any light shades. For headshots the focus has to be on you and not your clothes. Try to take along a change of clothes, a formal set and a casual set, and get headshots clicked in both outfits.
• When it comes to applying makeup, try to keep it subtle and simple. Use makeup to hide your flaws and accentuate your best features, and not to look like an over made-up doll. This is one of the most important headshot makeup tips.
• Before you get your photographs clicked, discuss with the photographer, what is it that you want. Tell him where you will be sending out the photographs to and accordingly decide on a pose that works well.
• Any article on tips to take headshots will tell you, that the focus of any headshot is the model's eyes. Your eyes reveal your personality and this is important in a headshot. Smile with your eyes.
• Along with a headshot, opt to get a three-fourth shot clicked as this will help the casting director to get a look at your body type which can be important for proper characterization. This is one of the most important tips for actors. This is also one of the important tips for dancers as without a three-fourth shot, it will be difficult for a casting director to make a call.

Now that you know what are the most important headshot tips for both photographers and models, you should have no problem when you go to get one clicked for yourself. Just keep these tips in mind and you should have a photograph that will truly showcase your best side.