Actor Headshots (casting, theatrical, commercial, TV)
Unlock your potential with a headshot that portrays the best in you
Good theatrical headshot shows the best of you, very naturally. As the photographer at Beaupix Studio, I personally understand that one key element of a good headshot is that you feel comfortable in front of the camera and lighting equipment; we maximize your comfort level in the studio for beautiful results! In addition to that, we'll use custom lighting work that works the best with your face and the image you like to achieve. By putting maximum effort and technical expertise in the studio shooting, and minimizing the need for retouching, your headshot will look most natural.
Where to shoot? studio or location
Many headshots are taken in studio, because the environment is more controlled and comfortable. However, some people may want outdoor headshots, especially for TV or film work. Increasing number of people prefer to shoot headshot in more familiar spaces, such as your living room, backyard, or even streets. Some people like to include interesting background view, such as park, urban streets and modern building. We are set up for location headshot sessions as well. About 10x20 feet of space is all that's needed.
Theatrical vs. Commercial
Theatrical headshot is usually straight-looking headshot with a small smile or no smile at all.
Commercial headshots put emphasis on commercial appeal and slightly more open to creative styling than theatrical headshots. Usually, lighter colored clothing, brighter look, bigger smile and more flattering and engaging posing are used.
We offer commercial headshots and theatrical headshots in the same package; you can shoot both styles in one sitting, if you prefer.
Clothing outfit for actor's headshots
Actor's headshot is exactly opposite from fashion photography. Fashion model is chosen to make the clothing look the best s/he can; an actor should choose clothing to make him/her look the best.
The #1 rule is to keep it simple and clean cut, so that attention stays on your face. An extreme example (and that works) is a solid colored T-thirt or tank top. You can choose casual, informal or business attire, but don't use too many colors, too much trimmings, printings or other features that may deprive viewer's attention. In fact, you can try 2-3 different outfits in a standard actor's headshot package.
When choosing outfit, try to pick colors that make moderate contrast to your hair color, and skin tone. You probably know what colors look good on you, but if you don't, ask your friend help you go through your wardrobe.
Reproduction (Printing) Options
We work with a local photofinisher to offer a special reproduction price for 50 or more copies of high quality 8x10 inch prints (of the same image), with your name printed in the bottom center or bottom right. 50 copies is $130 and 100 copies is $170. Sample prints are available in studio.
However, you are also welcome to use high resolution image files included in packages to print 8x10's at other printers, such as Reproductions in NYC.
Retouching for casting headshots
Retouching for casting headshots is limited to very light, natural retouching, except for removing temporary skin blemishes and eye circles. The strength of retouching is less than retouching for other types of headshots. This is because noticeable retouching is not appreciated by the casting directors. However, we pay extra attention to the lighting work for best results.
Theatrical / Commercial Headshot Testimonials
I've told my actor friends this, and I'll say it again - Beaupix is fantastic. Ryuji makes all the difference, he is so skilled and nice and understanding. That's a pleasure, when you're going into do headshots. It can be nervewracking when you're going to a headshot shoot, but I felt very comfortable working with Ryuji. And the results were awesome. I would definitely recommend booking with Beaupix!
When I went to take head shots with Ryuji I was both pleased and surprised with his passion and knowledge for photography and because he made me feel so comfortable with the entire experience the time flew by so quickly. Not only does he provide an enjoyable atmosphere within the studio but he also takes amazing pictures that left me both satisfied and thankful that I went to him for my head shots.
I have to say, Beaupix was a breath of fresh air! I'm an actress, and Ryuji did my headshots. I really think he must be a rare combination in a photographer: an extremely skilled PLUS friendly and patient and thorough. Also it seems like he's getting more & more recognition and going places, and I think I'm really lucky to have found him when I did. I would definitely recommend Beaupix, and I would absolutely work with Ryuji again. 5 stars!
Written by Linnea S. on yelp on 4/12/2009
I took headshots with Ryuji today. They are perfect. I got to his studio, we spoke for a while and went over outfits. then I met with the makeup artist and got into my first outfit. I sat down on the window sill as he finished adjusting the lights. He took a picture. He said... "okay, you're done," clearly joking. Then he showed me the camera. Wow... it was stunning, and on the first try. It usually takes me a few minutes to get comfortable with a photographer but Ryuji was just great. He takes photos with the intention of bringing out the subjects personality, not his own. I have had some bad experiences with photographers in the area where the pictures look nothing like me, because the photographer is trying to show themselves in the picture, and not me. Ryuji is completely different, he puts on some music of your taste and makes really insightful suggestions about a pose or hair or makeup and you end up with a fantastic set of photos. His studio is also great for backgrounds because there are a lot of fantastic doors and walls and colors and window views. My experience with Ryuji was fantastic and I would recommend him for any occasion. His photos really speak for themselves, though.
External resources
Stagesource headshot and resume advice (PDF)
This is quite detailed and raises many good points and suggestions, regarding the headshot photography part alone. It also points out a few options for headshot styles that are more commonly requested these days: horizontal format, full length, and location headshot, as you see in our headshot portfolio.
They say 8x10 black-and-white prints. While black-and-white used to be much more common in the past (due to lower price when printed in bulk), most agencies and casting directors prefer color 8x10 these days. The printing prices are the same for b&w and color. Beaupix Studio can provide the same image in both color and black-and-white if requested.
e-How article on headshot advice
They make a number of good suggestions for headshot shoppers.
e-HOW video clip talking about headshot
In Boston, price point is quite a bit lower than what she said. Our actor headshot clients most often have very basic needs, and I charge a fraction of what she said. Beaupix Studio offers very competitive prices for the top quality work, because we offer a range of services that combine our strengths to maximize the business efficiency. We do not cut cost by rushing photo sessions, using inexperienced photographer or inferior equipment.
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