Headshots are portraits with a purpose

I'm really passionate about taking headshots. I understand a headshot can really open doors to casting, managers and agents and ultimately a career you've dreamed of and worked hard for. I've worked on both sides of the camera in all fields as talent and in casting for almost 20 years (yikes!) and I know a lot of the pitfalls of the industry and also a lot of the incredible opportunities available.

I love working closely with the actors I shoot, making sure you're comfortable, prepared and getting great results. I shoot digital so we can capture a fleeting thought or feeling, and you can see the shots as we shoot. i won't shoot unless you're present and available. For most actors it's hard looking into a camera, as most actors are used to playing in front of people or cameras and basically ignoring them (the forth wall)! I know how to get you to a place where you'll "pop" in your picture, which for me means connecting with the lens and for you means connecting with casting directors, representation an

If you have representation, even better. I can talk to them to really tailor the shoot to your needs.

 

Today a huge percentage of casting, commercially and theatrically, is done online. Casting directors stare at LCD's for hours at a time flicking through thumbnails (sometimes as small as the thumbnails in the gallery!). I really want to create an image that will stand out, get you noticed and satisfy the room when you walk in looking like your shot.

The best photos are the ones where you don't look like you're having your photo taken

There are a lot of factors that go into making a great headshot: lighting, wardrobe, hair and makeup, but most importantly you. Like any great actor I'm photographing what you're thinking rather than what you're doing. You've more then likely heard the expression "it's all about the eyes"? Well that's not too much about how the light shines in them and more about a clear precise thought shooting into the camera and registering on film as you being totally present. Your thoughts along with your wardrobe are the very thing that creates what most representation wants these days: specific looks representing the many roles you can go out for.

I want to get you away from the "photo face" you always use to hide. I want you to allow your true essence to shine.

For any professional actor who has worked on set hair and makeup is an essential part of looking good and "popping" on film. I strongly advise both men and women to get a pro to do their hair and makeup. You wouldn't turn down hair and makeup on the set of a movie or TV show, would you? The same goes for shoots. The idea is for you to look your best, look like you, but to cover blemishes and uneven skin and to style your hair so as not to distract from the final image. Always, though, remembering this is your shoot and at any time you don't feel comfortable it's your place to stop the shoot to make changes. We want you comfortable after all!

If you're an actor you should be less obsessed about how you look and more obsessed about how you think. Thought begets action

Headshot shoots can be daunting, I've sat for quite a few over the years, but I can assure you we'll have a great time, and your representation will be happy too!

 

Thanks,

 

David