Help with headshots?

I want to get into professional acting, and i am going to send my resume and headshots to a few different agencies that i have been looking into. But how do i get my headshots done exactly? Do i need to go to a professional photographer, or can i have a freind take them for me (she has a professional photography camera, and has taken a lot of classes on the subject)? And do they need to be an 8x10? Black and white, or color? How many do i need to send to each agent? Please help!

While you will save money if your friend take the headshots for you you unfortunately will not get a product worth submitting. I am sure your friend is a fine photographer but their are techniques to taking headshots that I imagine your friend will not know. It is worth your time and money to research photographers in your area who specialize in headshots and then ask to see their portfolio prior to booking with them. This is an investment but without excellent headshots you will stand no chance of catching agents eyes.

Remember your headshot is your calling card. That agents you are submitting to do not know what you really look like so you need to be sure you have an excellent representation of yourself.

Regarding size and color. If you are over the age of 13 you should only submit 8x10's. Generally for people who are younger it is understood that your looks will drastically change year to year and agents do not require professionals shots for younger actors as they would have to be redone over and over. And black and white is still standard but more and more actors are beginning to submit color and if done well they are an asset. I would discuss with your photographer how much extra it would cost to get prints of both b & w and color.

And start with sending only 1 shot to each agent unless you have a few different shots to represent various looks and then send them 1 of each but no more then 2 or 3 shots total. If you are going for that many looks you should go with a composite card anyhow.

Please do not send shots to an agent that your friend took. That will not represent you in a professional light.

If you are serious about pursuing acting work, you will need 8x10 headshots- color are in style now, but black and white are acceptable. Look for someone in your area who specializes in HEADSHOTS for actors- not a portrait studio.

Hire a pro- It'll make you more money in the end, even though the upfront cost might be high. Headshots in LA run from $150 up to $400, go with someone who has a great portfolio and who's look you really like.
http://distinctphoto.com/photography/hea...

You don't need to get a professional photographer. A friend who can do a good job is good enough. Certain agencies will ask for black and white, sizes etc., but if they don't any or either is okay.

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