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TOPICS
Professional Child Actor’s need excellent headshots!
How often should young actors get new headshots taken?
- When they change their look
- When they noticeably have matured
- When they need specific type shots
- Twice a year until 16
- Once a year after 16
Tip: Get a 3-4 look session followed by a 1-2 look mini session six to eight months later.
An Posh, Expensive Look (Upscale)
A Working Class Look (Downscale)
Nerd
Bully
Edgy/Alternative
TIP: Only hire a Photographer that specializes in Actor Headshots.
Many people think a Family Portrait Photographer, Dance Photographer or even a Family Friend can take these type of pictures.
WRONG!
In order to be competitive, you need shots from an Industry Professional who understands current trends and knows what casting and talent reps are looking for. Headshot photographers shoot actors and know how to compose a shot that make the actors thumbnail pop.
A great photograph gives us a glimpse into the soul of its subject.
The THEATRICAL HEADSHOT
The “Non-Expression” Expression
A Theatrical headshot is like a blank canvas. The actor shows their thought and intensity by connecting with lens.
The Actor should have a relaxed face and demeanor.
All headshots have clear eye-line to the lens.
The eyes are ALWAYS looking into the lens. No Exceptions!
This creates an important connection with the viewer.
There should be visible thought and a touch of emotion.
It should not appear as a singular emotion.
Unless it’s a character type example it should not be Moody or Pouty.
It should evoke a CONFIDENT feeling.
A Headshot is not a posed portrait! There should be minimal posing for the camera.
It is the essence of the actor captured through a lens that connects with the viewer.
Headshots Have Evolved
Headshots are now tighter in framing/composition because of digital thumbnails often used on personal devices.
So the rule of thirds is important.
Rule of Thirds Grid
Crop
It is not uncommon to have a portion of the top of the head cropped off in the photo.
Making the photo pop as a one inch thumbnail is a must.
We can tell what the Actor’s hair looks like even with the tighter crop.
Casting Director Joey Paul Jensen says “A great headshot should feel like it was lifted from a frame of video and printed to an 8x10. It should have life. It should feel almost like a thought bubble above exists and it says what the actor is thinking”
Wardrobe Tips
Jewel Tones are always a great bet as they look great on everyone and really pop in print.
A headshot does not show very much of clothing. It is only important to worry about the top half of the Actor.
Layers!
Using an undershirt, open shirt and jacket can maximize the different shots that can be taken per look. Simple accessories like scarves, glasses, hat can also mix up a single look.
Keep the look SIMPLE!
No Makeup
Only translucent powder, chapstick, minor coverup is necessary.
Don’t Fuss with the HAIR
Casting wants kids to look like themselves. Raw.
Fashion Courage
Don’t be afraid of getting a little funky. Use interesting collars. Have patterns or prints. Mix styles and be unique!
Layer
Nerd it Up
Glasses are a fun change
Be Fancy
Dapper mixed prints
Retro Collars
Chunky Sweaters or Turtlenecks
Colorful retro touches
Genderbent fun
Textures
Strong colors and lines
Explore Type with layers
Tough cuts and bold graphics
Interesting pieces and accessories
Unique lines and color pallets
Compliment your Eyes
Dress it down
Prints are eye catching
Go to the EDGE
Or stay SOFT
The Commercial Headshot
The “Light Theatrical” Headshot
AKA “Sitcom Headshot”
WHAT NOT TO DO!
1: Bad Eyeline
Do not choose photos where the Actor is looking away from camera. The eyes must ALWAYS connect with the lens.
All of these examples should have been thrown out. Even if the eye line is a little off - the headshot is unusable.
2: Shots from high or below are BAD.
The subject must be shot at eye level
3: NO HANDS!
4: No Distracting Hats or Bows
5: NO MAKEUP!
Seriously, No Makeup on girls under 16!
6: Stop Sexualizing Girls!
Investment
Headshots range in price. They are usually priced by looks.
A look is a complete clothing option before needing a change.
On average a 2-3 look package will cost $300 - $695
You should always receive the entire shoot’s digital files with the cost of headshots.
- Retouching is almost always an additional fee.
- As is a Hair/Makeup artist at shoot.
Who are the most Awesome Kids Headshot Photographers in the Los Angeles area?
Recommended Youth Los Angeles Headshot Photographers
*denotes Child Performer Services Permit holder
Tamara Tihanyi*
Brad Buckman
Amy Casson*
Kenneth Dolin
Chris Evan
Marc Cartwright
Joanna Degeneres
Sage Kirkpatrick*
Michael Roud
Rena Durham*
Shandon
Bradford Rogne
Theo & Juliet
Credits:
Child Actor 101 2025 All images belong to the rightful photographers. E-Book author does not own any of the images displayed.