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Coultish Management

Photos

 

Your photo and resume are the tools of your trade.  As with any industry, the quality and performance of them will be a big factor in your success.  In this section we will be discussing  photos.  They need not be the most expensive, the one with the "brand name" but they must shout "pick me".     So what makes a good photo?  

  • A good photographer knows what is needed for an actor's headshot.   If she/he needs to ask then you know they haven't shot many actors pictures.   

  • You need to look your very best.  You will be handing these photos out to hundreds of industry based professionals so before you spend the dollars on a good photo, take care of any dental work and skin conditions you may have.  Decide on the cut of your hair and men decide on facial hair as well.  Top actors are very well groomed.  Look at who gets the leads in films, series and television movies.  Hair for women is usually not much longer than shoulder length and men are usually clean shaven with a styled hair cut.  Good photos are expensive not to mention the number of extra copies you will have to make.  Discuss with your agent what is the best look for you before you book your photoshoot. 

  • Clean, crisp black & white 8X10 with little or no shadows on face.  Black & white photos are the most common but colour photos are also acceptable.

  • Your eyes are "alive".  That means you got enough sleep the night before and you are bright, full of energy and it shows.  There has to be a strong sense of personality that comes from the picture.  Your photo quite often is portraying the viewer's "first impression" of you.  You want it to say everything you could if you were in their presence.

  • Expressions can range from large smiles and relaxed atmosphere to a much stronger forceful appearance.  When the latter has been chosen, a second more friendly version should also be ordered.

  • Profiles are not good choices.  You should be facing the camera so when someone is looking at your picture you are looking back at the viewer.

  • WOMEN......if you are doing your own makeup stay as natural as possible.  Yes you want makeup on but not heavy eyeliners and darkened eyes.  MEN as well as women should make sure they are powdered.  This is no place for a shiny face!  If you have paid for the luxury of a make up artist tell them the end result needs to look like you when you walk in to the audition.  This is not the time for a glam photo!  

  • Stay away from turtle necks and busy patterns.  Relaxed looks are usually best.   If possible have the photographer take a more upscale or business look too.  

  • Look at the photographer's work ahead of time before booking.  Does he/she take 3/4 and/or full length as well?  This is a popular look in LA and Vancouver is quickly catching up to this style.  You will want to have a headshot as well as one of the other looks to choose from.  

  • Once you have your photo done your agent will help you choose which ones are to be enlarged.   Depending on the type of  production that you are being submitted for you may want 2 or 3 contrasting looks to choose from. Your choice(s) will be enlarged to the 8X10 size and then at least 25 copies should be made.   Many actors get their  copies made at Rocket Reprographics in Vancouver.     Photos should be done in a mattE finish.

  • Photos should be updated at any major change in your appearance and about every 2 - 3 years depending on your age.