Kid’s Headshots are important to have when they are just getting into the business of Community & Regional Theatre and Commercial work. Check out Mr. Personality above! Below, his young lady came to the studio with her mom and they both had professional headshots taken to use in a variety of settings. She is a thoughtful child by nature, I think and we captured that feeling. We also took some nice portraits for the wall as well!
Preparing Your Child
Before you bring your child in for headshots, there are a few things they should know.
- This is not a school photo session . Remind them that they are an actor or actress! These photos are meant to show emotion and personality. Practice! Practice! in front of a mirror with your child! It’s OK (and very much encouraged) to be silly! What does surprised look like? What is the look you give when you just don’t believe something someone has told you? Can you giggle? What does it look like when someone has told you the FUNNIEST Joke? A bad smell?? Practice going from no smiling to sloooooowly going all the way to a full on laugh! All of these are used to loosen a child up in front of the camera and try to coax that personality out!
- Dress in age appropriate clothing! Beautiful colors that compliment their eye color are always a good idea. No logos or writing on the shirt. Tops with sleeves and possibly a denim jacket, sweater or hoodie. I always like to see the clothing before you bring it in as it helps to choose complimentary backdrops!
- Give them a snack before the session. Always a good idea but with NO sugar. Also have their own water bottle. I try to keep the session to 30 minutes so as not to tire them out 🙂
- Solo shoot. Most of the time, kids do better if there are no other children around watching them. I know this sounds counterintuitive if they are actors/actresses! The truth is, is that many actors/actresses are usually uncomfortable with people being so close! Especially stage actors/actresses! I use a lens that compels me to be a comfortable distance from them and give them space.
- Glasses. Glasses are a super fun and interesting addition!
All set! Kid’s Headshots can be fun and I encourage you and your child to be prepared with the above tips and have a fun time!
If you are interested, here is a link for Disney casting calls !