KNOW WHAT KIND OF HEADSHOT YOU WANT

1. Commercial Headshots need to have an open mouth smile. They must say "I'm an open, positive person, very enthusiastic, and willing to work!"

2. Theatre Headshots can be more serious and thoughtful with a hint of mystery.

YOUR HEADSHOT MUST LOOK LIKE YOU

Ok, I know this sounds obvious, but I've known too many casting directors who called an actor in for an audition based on their headshot only to be disappointed when they didn't look like their headshot. Your headshots are not "glamour" shots unless your looking for work in the soaps. It's the natural you on one of your best days.

BE GOOD TO YOURSELF

Get a good night sleep. Stay away from late parties the night before. Your eyes need to be bright and inviting. The best photos happen when you are relaxed, rested, and in a positive frame of mind.

BE ACTIVE AND INCLUDE THE LENS

1.Just like acting on stage, you must have active thoughts when you get in front of the lens. If you just sit there and smile, your photos, especially your eyes, become passive. Having an action or intention (playing the verbs as we say in the biz) gives your expressions life. So, instead of trying to "look happy" let your inner-monologue be "look who's here" or "come here baby" or "here's a good one" or "let's party!" The choices are endless just make sure they are something positive that puts you in a great frame of mind.

2. Include the lens. Imagine the camera being a person from your life. Someone who makes you laugh. Share your thoughts with them through the lens.

CLOTHING, JEWELRY & GLASSES

1. For headshots, you need to pay special attention to your neckline. A V-line lengthens the neck. A round neckline shortens it. Stay away from turtlenecks.

2.Small textures, subdued plaids and stripes are pleasing. Solids always work. Stay away from BOLD patterns.

3. Stay away from solid whites. It is hard to light so that you can see the detail in the fabric. It is fine to wear white under a shirt, jacket or a vest.

4. Pick clothing that flatters you and that you enjoy wearing.

5. Wash and IRON clothing before photoshoot.

6. Jewelry, if worn, must be simple and not distracting. You don't want attention drawn away from your face.

7. If you have glasses and want them in the headshot, please take them to an optical place to remove the lenses.

8. Women: Bring smooth bras especially if you have tight fitting tops.

9. Stay away from dark, especially black, turtlenecks. Your photo will look like a floating head.

HAIR & MAKE-UP

1. Think of doing your hair as you would when you go out for a nice evening. Once again, you'll want to look natural.

2. Men- shave right before you come to the shoot. Or if you are a fast grower, bring a razor and shave here.

3. Women- Make-up, like hair, should look natural and nice like you would for a special evening out on the town. Bring powder to cover shine.

4. Men- should stay away from make-up unless you need to cover some minor blemishes. Bring powder to cover shine.