The Headshot Is It Such A Big Deal?
As a busy actors headshot photographer in London I meet many types of actors and performers who need a headshot. They range from the well-known actor/celebrity right through the whole range to actors just starting out on their career. Another thing about the range of personalities and levels of success is the age range I encounter.
Acting is not only a profession but to many people it’s a life long passion that sometimes through life’s various stages cannot quite find the time or inclination to pursue. One of the many phobias I come across is the ‘fear of the camera’ It can manifest itself in many ways and is not only an issue with younger or novice actors. I have had lots of occasions when seasoned veterans of the acting game have suddenly behaved in an unusual way towards the still camera.
Often it’s easier dealing with a novice as they have more of an open mind to my suggestions as a headshot photographer. They are more willing to ‘follow my direction’. A slight problem sometimes occurs when a more established actor is unaware they don’t have a problem This is when the skill of a headshot photographer comes into play. The actual physical headshot itself is not hard to achieve but it’s the sparkle in them, the emotional content and the connection with the viewer that are the real jewel’s in a great actors headshot.
This I believe is the crucial skill – coaxing out of an actor a performance in their headshot session.
