A Head-shot is the first thing an Agent will look at when considering a new applicant and the first thing a Casting Directors will see, when choosing artists for their project, so we want your headshot to do you justice.
By following these few tips, we can help you get the best out of your home headshots/self tapes and make it a fun experience. If you are applying to Paris Talent Agency as a new applicant, please submit either two clear headshots or a headshot and full length image. No accessories, make-up or jewellery please (if under 18) and take new images for your application, rather than using a snap-shot you may already have that just isn't suitable. Self Tapes For your 1 minute self tape you can use a mobile phone to film, ensure you shoot in landscape and hold your device steady. Frame the artist to head and torso and ensure you stand in front of a plain background with good natural lighting. If you stand slightly away from the wall, it will help eliminate shadows behind you. What to tape We want to see your personality, so introduce yourself then have a short chat about you - hobbies, interests, family etc. Look like YOU Firstly, headshots represent you and showcase who the casting directors could be working with. For that reason – make sure that in the shots, you look like you would when auditioning in person. Keep the photos simple and up to date – no fancy clothing, props or poses are necessary. Think 'passport photo' style. Suitable clothing For the headshot & self tape, dress in appropriate clothing that has no slogans or logos on them. Not only can such clothing take away the attention from the artist, it works as unwarranted marketing. No strappy tops or midriffs showing, a simple t-shirt is best. Natural lighting Natural light, like it says, looks more natural and doesn’t skew your features. Using natural light over studio light is suggested as it will give a closer resemblance to the film lighting that may be used in productions. So find an area in a well let room, near to a window and take your photos there. A plain background If setting up at home, try to find a plain, light coloured background and stand slightly away from it to avoid dark shadows behind you. Failing that, hang a sheet up or use a cheap photographers pop up white background screen as shown here. Different expressions When we are submitting to castings, we may want to switch up your main headshot based on the type of role. Make sure you take head-shots with different expressions. We not not want to see 'posed' models, just a natural smile and a more neutral look is perfect. Capture your personality Make sure you individual personality shines through in the pictures. If you are goofy and always smiling – capture that. If usually you are more serious – capture that too. Your personality is what will help you get relevant roles. It is not to be hidden! Avoiding makeup for under 16's Kids will be Kids and that’s exactly what casting directors are looking for – Please avoid makeup if your child is under 16 – especially if they aren’t usually wearing it in their daily life. It is a bonus if your child looks young for their age, so please capture them looking fresh and as natural as possible. Focus on the eyes The importance of focus on their eyes is huge. Your eyes are full of expression – capture that. Showcase your spark. Make sure your eyes in the photos are sharp and in focus. Keep your camera at eye level when taking your pictures and ensure they are looking right down the lens. Quality is important If you are taking head-shots yourself, do make sure you use a quality camera or smart phone - a tripod will keep the camera still.. Avoid using any editing apps that will reduce the quality and do not add filters before sending these to the Agency. Good luck. |
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