Top tips for actors

• Arrive early so can give yourself a breather.

• Get enough sleep.

• In regards to tops and jackets…

  • Keep it simple.

  • Pack casual clothes and formal wear like a suit jacket.

  • Ensure they are washed and pressed.

  • Avoid flashy designs like logos, wild patterns, or bright colors. They can be distracting.

  • If you want photos from a specific period or genre, choose clothing that hints at or implies something without being too obvious.

  • Bring different colors that match your skin tone instead of only bringing black.

  • I recommend neutral tones and soft colours.

  • Layering adds interest.

  • Wear clothes that make you feel good and fit you well.

  • Bring several outfits so you have options. I can assist with the appearance before the photo session starts.

• Consider a guiding monologue or scene to stay consistent and authentic in portraying your chosen archetype.

• Enjoy yourself, and show your personality, as you would for an audition.

FAQ

• ITS MY FIRST SHOOT, CAN YOU HELP?

  • I'm here to guide you through your headshot session. I make sure our communication is clear and detailed. Most actors typically feel uncomfortable during headshot sessions initially, so my primary goal is to capture authentic and natural moments that truly reflect your personality. I utilize creative concepts and thoughts to assist you in feeling connected and fully immersed in the moment. By tailoring my methods, I aim to provide a personalized experience that aligns perfectly with your preferences and requirements. Stay receptive and have faith in my guidance.

• WHERE DOES THE PHOTO SHOOT TAKE PLACE?

  • My photo sessions are held in my home studio in East London, where I use natural light. This way, you can enjoy the benefits of natural light photography without worrying about wind or bad weather. Full address will be provided upon booking.

• DO YOU DO OUTDOOR SHOOTS?

  • Occasionally if the weather permits.

• HOW CAN I SEE MY PHOTOS?

  • I review them throughout the session. At the end of the session, we will go through the photos together and start picking out our favourite photos together. I work this way to ensure if there’s anything you aren’t happy with or it didn’t work, I can rectify that immediately. Also, if you have any questions, I can answer them immediately.

• WHAT IS YOUR TURN AROUND TIME?

  • 10 working days after selections are made.

• DO YOU GIVE OUT UNEDITED PHOTOS?

  • No, I'm afraid. I refrain from providing unedited images as I strive to uphold the utmost quality standards that reflect everyone in the best light.

• HOW LONG DO YOU KEEP THE PHOTOS FOR?

  • The photos will be saved for one year, allowing you to buy additional retouched copies for £24 each. After a year, they will be deleted.

• I WOULD LIKE THEM TO BE MORE FASHIONABLE AND EDGY.

  • Actor Headshots should be authentic. I would stress it must be a true representation of you for the director and casting director to cast effectively. Directors and casting directors want to see your true self in the best way possible. Editorial photos are trendy but risky.

• WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HEADSHOTS AND EDITORIALS?

  • Headshots are a true representation of you without any extras like heavy makeup and fancy lighting. They should look like you and represent your visual stereotype.  Editorials are visually interesting and creative, but it doesn’t always represent you properly. However, they are particularly well-suited for Comedians, Influencers, and Models since they provide a richer narrative, drawing the viewer in to explore what the subject has to offer in greater depth.

• DO YOU DO ANY OTHER KIND OF PHOTOGRAPHY?

  • Yes, indeed. I am a published photographer specializing in fashion and commercial photography.

• CAN I CHANGE MY HAIR / SHAVE HALFWAY THROUGH THE SESSION?

  • Certainly. There’s a bathroom here you can use, just bring your own tools.

• HOW SHOULD I DO MY MAKEUP?

  • Keep it natural. You can add more later, but don’t go overboard.

• DO YOU HAVE A HAIR AND MAKEUP ARTIST AVAILABLE?

  • I have hair and makeup artists I can recommend, but you will need to ask them about their prices. Their prices are not part of my packages.

• DO YOU DO JOINT SESSIONS?

  • You can have a session with your actor friend, but it will count as two separate sessions.

• I HAVE A BREAK OUT OF SPOTS ON THE DAY THE SHOOT.

  • No worries, I can easily remove that using Photoshop.

• DO YOU DO A LOT OF RETOUCHING?

  • I enhance skin and hair naturally without changing your recognizable appearance.

• HOW DO I PAY FOR MY SESSIONS

  • Payment is in cash or bank transfers on the day, but unable to process credit cards. Invoice available upon request.

• IS A DEPOSIT REQUIRED?

  • Yes, a £50 non-returnable deposit is necessary to confirm and reserve your headshot session appointment in advance.

    • For corporations and small enterprises, kindly get in touch with me for further information and specifics.

• CAN I PAY INSTALLMENTS?

  • I’m afraid not.

• WHAT IF MY BOOKING IS CONFLIGHTING WITH MY SCHEDULE SUDDENLY.

  • If you need to change the appointment, please notify me at least 48 hours prior. Inform me if you're feeling unwell, have a booking confirmed, or are uncertain about your rehearsal duration. Please respect your headshot appointment as you would with an audition. With notice, we can reschedule. I understand auditions can arise suddenly; let me know so I can adjust your session. Late cancellations or no-shows will not be rebooked and your deposit will not be refunded. Apologies, zero tolerance for time-wasting behavior.