US actors' headshots and our top ten tips on having headshots taken for anywhere overseas
- Research your new market eg. What do agents/casting directors there look for in actors (and actors' headshots)? Use this information when you're preparing your headshot(s).
- View as many headshot samples used in your new location as you can and compare them to Australian ones.
- Stick to the industry-standard format(s) of your new location. In the US, for example, the standard is to use colour headshots.
- It may be a good idea to wait until you're overseas and use a reputable local photographer.
- You may need to have several different headshots, like actors do in the US. If this is the case, make sure they are all very different from on another and tailored to your different types and the different fields of work (which may even mean using different photographers).
- As the market you're going to may be larger (or smaller), you may have to duplicate more (or less) copies.
- The above three points may mean that the whole process of headshots production and distribution is more expensive for you. If so, start saving your pennies!
- If you're using your Australian headshot, take the master with you (check the correct format to take). It may also be a good idea to take with you as many varying headshots as possible (different types, shot sizes etc.).
- Translate your name on your headshot, if necessary.
- Update your contact number. Use your contact number even if you have an Australian agent. Or if you have a new agent/manager at your new location, use their contact details rather than yours or your Australian agent's.
Acknowledgments
Photographs courtesy Paul Smith Photography. www.paulsmithphotography.com
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