If you are a model or an actor, then you already know that probably, the most important image that you have in your portfolio is your head shot. Let me correct myself, your most CURRENT head shot.
Unedited: Model, Aquisha G. from Fayetteville, NC
Today, with online profiles for business and professional pages, the head shot is not just a tool for entertainers, but used by Realtors, Doctors, Lawyers, and even your local bistro Chef. A warm and inviting smile, can make new patrons feel comfortable about your services. Or maybe a stern steely gaze of a fighter, can be a civil attorney's signal to a potential client, that she is the person for the job. Whatever the reason you have for a new head shot, keep in mind, there is no "One Size Fits All" type of head shot, nor a "One Size Fits All" type of client.
Earlier I corrected myself by emphasizing that the head shot should be current. According to the actor's advice site, 'Headshots 101' head shots should be updated frequently to keep up with growth, major changes (i.e. weight gain/loss, major hair style or color changes, etc), and industry head shot trends. Trends can be timely, like black and white vs. color, or regional such as environmental vs studio backdrop, or a mix of both, such as landscape oriented head shots which display better on computer screens and websites.
Unedited: Model Aquisha G. feb2016
Some of you, may remember a session that I did with Aquisha a year ago, photographing a more formal image. We had a very successful session which resulted in some great images. I was honored when she wanted to book a last-minute session this weekend and was willing to drive all the way from Fayetteville to do so. Talk about someone dedicated to her craft!
Aquisha arrived to my Charleston home studio at a little past seven in the evening. I know that she had driven a long way, and before we got to shooting, I wanted to make sure she was ready to work. So, of course, we went across the street to a local pizzeria to get a quick bite to eat. Once she was comfortable, we began to set up for the session.
What a great photo session it was. My average head shot session, I usually allow for up to 50 frames for the entire session, from which the client usually can choose their favorite 5 images to be retouched and edited (you are always more than welcome to choose more than that at an à la carte rate per image). While the average head shot session is scheduled for an hour, Aquisha and I were able to knock out under 40 frames in less than 30 minutes. (You can take a look at our unedited session HERE).
Unedited: Model, Aquisha G. holds up a color checker for establishing a color reference.
Once again, thank you Aquisha for trusting me with your image and making the trip. Until next time.
LD
ps. If you are ready to schedule YOUR session, click here to start the process!
