Headshots for Actors in Toronto
It’s the simplest thing in the world but most actors get it wrong. And photographers in Toronto get it wrong and ironically, many headshot photographers in Toronto working specifically with actors get it wrong. Nothing. Doing nothing. All you have to do is be yourself in front of a camera. Simple. And yet very difficult for most actors in Toronto who are incredibly SHY when it comes to being themselves. If they can’t focus on being another character something we all spend years learning to do as actors then there’s confusion, insecurity, fear and tension which makes for a lousy headshot photo. Adding to that is the frustration of most photographers in Toronto who don’t know how to get an actor in Toronto to RELAX. So they say things like “Relax, chill, be more calm, stop biting your lip or squinting your eyes!” or “Relax your forehead-there are lines and wrinkles where you’re frowning, lower your shoulders, breathe!” The list goes on. The result? An actor in Toronto gets more self-conscious, upset, more nervous and more tense. It’s a downward spiral. So what do you do? Choose a photographer in Toronto that you feel comfortable with not the “trendy” hot guy to whom every actor goes. (“Oh, if only I had a headshot with this top guy I would be successful, too!”) no, that is not true.
Tips for Actors getting Headshots in Toronto
Go over your “type” and range-the kind of roles in which you will be cast and play before you decide on the wardrobe. There’s nothing worse than a generic headshot photo, one with an actor dressed in a boring white shirt or a black sweater with a phony smile. Know your roles. Doctor, Lawyer, Businessman, Teacher, Mom, Dad? Dress it or suggest it. Wear your favorite colors-solids are generally better than prints. Another mistake? An actress in Toronto wearing too much jewlery, make-up or choosing outfits that are more suited to a disco, a beach party, baseball game or just hanging out at a bar. That’s okay if that’s what you’re selling as your brand in Toronto. If not, casting directors in Toronto will be confused about how to cast you or call you in for a role, so they don’t. Get the advice of a Career Coach if you don’t know your type or what to wear.
Explain thoroughly to the make-up artist in Toronto and hair stylist exactly how you look every day. All too often a stylist in Toronto will do your hair they way they see you not the way you usually look so you end up with headshot photos that don’t accurately represent you. This is especially true for women but may apply to men with longer hair that can be altered with mousse, spray, a curling iron. For women with curly hair-if that’s how you look don’t straighten your hair just for the headshot photo unless you want to do that everyday of your life henceforth. Casting Directors in Toronto want to see the real you not how you could be.
By: Rafi Michael
