How Many Looks Do I Need?

So you're in the market for professional headshots in NYC? You've taken a look at samples of my actor headshots or corporate headshots and you're about ready to book your session. But how many looks do you need? Well, it depends on what your focus is and where you are currently in your career. Both my actor and business clients have very specific needs and I always look to cater sessions to fit their unique needs. Deciding on the number of looks beforehand will ensure you're getting the most out of your shoot.

How many looks does an actor need?
For actors, two Looks is what I consider the absolute minimal for professional headshots in NYC. Actors need to showcase their versatility(or type) and are often going out for a variety of roles. It helps if you have two headshots to choose from when you get ready to send your headshot out or attend a casting. Depending on the role you're going out for, one of your headshots may serve you better than the other. If you only have one, you'll be extremely limited. I want you to succeed, so two looks is what I'd recommend as an absolute minimum.

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Actor Headshot Tips, Corporate Headshot TipsJamiya WilsonComment
New York Headshots vs. Los Angeles

Ah, New York Headshots versus headshots in Los Angeles. Working as a headshot photographer for the past 6 years, I've learned there are big differences between what are considered acceptable actor headshots in NYC and what is considered acceptable in Los Angeles.

Acting headshots in New York tend to primarily focus on you. YOUR personality and how you come across in your headshot. Are you bubbly, silly, serious, handsome, sexy, etc. Wardrobe, while important, isn't a primary factor and should only be used to enhance what is unique about your personality. For instance, if you're a handsome, yet edgy type of guy, a plaid shirt and glasses may not help that come across to a casting director. Alternatively, if you're a sexy femme fatale, dressing like a young mom will make sure your headshot falls flat. For the most part, simple tops, pants, and wardrobe that doesn't distract from you is all that's really required. The important thing is for your headshot to look like you and everything else gets out of the way to help you achieve that goal.

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Actor Headshot TipsJamiya WilsonComment
5 Important Tips for Headshots in NYC

This post applies to both my actor headshots and corporate headshots clients alike. There are countless photographers and options for headshots in NYC. New York is a super competitive market and having the right headshot can make or break your chances of success. Here are my top 5 tips for getting your headshots in NYC.

1. Select the right headshot photographer.
NYC is home to countless photographers, especially those specializing in headshots. Ah, the smell of capitalism! The sheer amount of options out there are daunting and at times overwhelming. Each offers a variety of packages, price points, style, and each has their own unique personality. Start by narrowing down your top 3-5 choices. Don't call them first. Before calling, take a look at their online portfolio to get a sense for their style and who they are. Also look to see if they can photograph both sexes well and/or can do photograph actors as well as they photograph business professionals or vice versa. Additionally, look for testimonials, not only on their website, but also on social sites such as Yelp and Google. And lastly, does their personality seem to mesh well with your own? Do they seem fun or cold? If everything looks great, give them a call. If they're available and willing to take a few minutes to discuss your needs, you're likely making the right decision! If not, go to the next person on your list.

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Actor Headshot Tips, Corporate Headshot TipsJamiya WilsonComment
Actors, Think Twice Before You Get Those Cheap Headshots

You’ve probably heard the phrase, “You get what you pay for!” on numerous occasions right? Well your acting headshots are no different.

There are literally dozens of headshot photographers in NYC, all offering a variety of services as well as rates. Some are on the astronomically high-end and others are on the cheap “Headshots for $100!” end. While I won’t tell anyone where to spend their money, I will advise that taking a chance and going with cheap headshots can be a big mistake, especially for actors. Time is money and the acting world moves fast. You don’t want to miss out on landing an audition during pilot season because you went with those cheap and fast headshots that were ultimately ineffective.

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Actor Headshot TipsJamiya WilsonComment