How to Prepare for Your Actors Headshot Session in Los Angeles
You’ve got your whole life to party, so hold off on the pubs, clubs, and whiskey bars until we’ve got that final frame locked in. Your future acting headshots will thank you.
Here’s how to show up sharp, rested, and ready to shine.
Get Camera-Ready: Health, Rest, and Energy Tips
Hydrate – Plenty of water helps to clear up that 3rd eye on the ol' forehead.
Sleep well – plenty of rest Helps to lose that excess baggage under those eyes.
Watch your diet – Avoid salty and sugary foods before your shoot; they cause bloating and fatigue.
Hit the gym - Invest in some sweat equity to get rid of that extra cheez around the belly.
These simple steps will help you look and feel your best for your headshot session.
Know Your Casting Type (and Embrace It)
Think about the roles you naturally fit into—and the ones you want to be called in for. Are you the brooding lead? The comedic best friend? A quiet storm?
Give some thought to the attitudes and moods you want your headshots to convey. And if you have a rep, get on the same page about how they want to market you.
What Is a “Look” in a Headshot Session?
In the headshot world, a look is a wardrobe change that reflects a different version of you. Each one should express a different tone, archetype, or casting vibe.
We’ll use wardrobe, lighting, and direction to highlight range without losing authenticity. Whether it’s professional, edgy, warm, or mysterious—each look will help tell your story.
What to Wear for Your Actor Headshots
There’s no strict dress code, but here are some proven wardrobe tips for cinematic actor portraits:
Solid colors are often best. Loud prints, and patterns can be distracting.
Look for ways to layer your clothing. Distinct textures are pleasing to the eye.
Choose colors that compliment your skin tone and eye color.
Make sure you LIKE your wardrobe choices. It's important that you look and feel your best during our shoot.
Don’t be a slob. Whatever you end up bringing to our headshot session, make sure it’s clean and wrinkle free. Seriously. ‘Nuff said.
Again, these are all just guidelines, not rules. If you feel strongly about something, by all means bring it.
Still unsure? Bring a few options. We’ll choose together.
Do I Need a Makeup Artist for Headshots?
I tend to favor the ‘less is more’ approach to make up when working on acting headshots. However a skilled make up artist can undoubtedly make a good headshot great. There are several that I work with who are absolute wizards. Or you can hire your own. However you prefer, the choice is up to you.
The goal? You—but camera-ready.
How You’ll Receive Your Images
You’ll get:
High-res images via WeTransfer within 24 hours of the shoot
An online viewing gallery from Actor’s Photo Lab a few days later to review and share with reps
Quick, easy, and ready for casting submissions.
Is This Going to hurt?
Nah, I’m a teddy bear. With me it’s all about truth, connection, improvisation, and most importantly…fun! The technical issues will take care of themselves. That’s my job. Your job is to show up, have a few laughs, snap some photos, and allow the unique qualities that set you apart from every other actor in Hollywood shine through. Acting is playing. Your headshot session should be no different.
This isn’t just a headshot—it’s a story, a vibe, a cinematic moment. And I’ll help you bring it to life.
