First, in this context, basic ≠ bad. Sometimes a basic headshot session is all you really need to get out there for the first time, or for the first time in a long time. Here’s a super simple technique (lifehack?) for getting a well-rounded “basic” set of headshots.
Ok, more accurately, one series of questions. If you don’t have an agent or manager or acting coach or stylist or or or…ask yourself the following:
What would you wear if you were…
The answers to these questions will hopefully help lead you toward the different archetypes that are in your wheelhouse (and in your closet). The term “archetypes” is a whole thing for another post, but you can think of it as another word for the most basic foundation of a character type. Let’s dig into a couple answers to show you what I mean…
What would you wear to get coffee with a friend? Most likely something casual, right? This is the least “trying” of your looks. If you can play young, this can be a great look for a student. If you’re older, this can read as the lost soul or lovable loser. It’s possible, depending on your style, that you could get a blue collar/wrong side of the tracks vibe here, too.
If I told you to put together wardrobe for those types listed above, you’d probably feel a little overwhelmed. But I’m guessing you can easily pull out something from your closet that fits the “getting coffee” bill. Let’s do another one…
What would you wear to work? It’s a tricky one because what kind of work?! This is an example of when your life experience can define the direction of a shot. What is/was work for you most recently? Is there a dress code? A uniform? Wear what you would wear – it’s a type! Ok, one more…
What would you wear on a dinner/movie date? You’d probably want to impress whomever this hypothetical dinner and movie date is, so you’d wear something that’s not quite everyday, but not too formal either. Something that makes you feel confident, something that’s stain and hole-free, and flattering. Look at that, accidental dating advice comin’ at ya.
And I was lying, let’s do one more for reals…
What would you wear to a formal event? Not the Met Gala, but a regular event, like a wedding. A dress, a suit & tie, a vest, a pantsuit. Clothes that will likely lean chic or sweet or polished or sexy – whatever your style is for this kind of event will work as a type. This look can potentially also make for a great PR style shot as well (hellooo new IMDb shot).
It’s a great idea to bring a layer that makes sense with each look. You might not need it, but having it will give you even more options and variety. Most headshot photographers don’t consider adding or removing a layer to be a separate look.
Well, yeah, there are lots of other factors to consider even for a basic headshot session. But, as we do with our clients, your photographer will hopefully provide you with guidance on the details to consider when putting your headshot looks together, and how to prep your wardrobe and yourself for your session. If they don’t, you know where to find us.
tandem photo
headshots and portraits
in los angeles, ca 90039
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