Let us help you present your best self to the director and give you a headshot or comp card to leave behind at the casting.
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Is there a difference between photos for commercial modeling work and for theatre?
YES!! Photos for a role in a production are usually distinctively different from a headshot for commercial advertising work or even for business purposes.
When casting in the theatre, you should showcase your range and different sides of your personality. We generally prefer to make our theatrical shoots more moody and dramatic. We like muted tones, shadows, and a variety of emotions. We want your character to pop and to showcase your different layers as a talent professional to fit a role. In commercial advertising you are usually working to match a specific look for a brand and want a look that is universally appealing to an audience. Think of more saturated colors and a fun vibe.
Can you provide a few headshot tips?
Yes of course. We are happy to talk more via email or phone in advance of your shoot, but for now here are a few ideas to get you started.
Wardrobe
If you are auditioning for a specific character, some pre-shoot research on Google can help you identify what wardrobe options might work best for this particular role. This is all planning you should do before booking a session, just in case you have to obtain a few new wardrobe items from a thrift store or online. If this is a big role, you might want to purchase a custom piece or two from an Esty store or similar supplier, to compliment clothing and acessories you already have. A signature piece or two can really bring the look home and make an impact.
Expressions
Should you smile or be serious? If we are just taking one photo, I would let your character be your guide. Ideally we would take a few photos to show your range and have a variety of looks.
Best Poses
For business we like to have individuals look straight into the camera to convey honesty and trust. In the theater and acting world we often have you look away from the camera and to one side. If you were scared you might be crouching down and cowering away from a larger/taller character. If you were proud and confidant, you would have a very different posture. Let's talk more about your character and how best to showcase your range.
Indoors or Outdoors
We generally prefer to shoot our images indoors for a few reasons. In the studio, we have much more control of the lighting and mood of an image. In past shoots we have used a fog machine and other special effects to really sell the shot. This is harder to do outdoors and requires a much larger crew to fight mother nature and have the same level of control.
Nearby Productions
We are truly fortunate and the Bay Area has a number of different productions going on. Here are a few resources to check out for casting opportunities and classes:
Center REPertory Company- Walnut Creek
Childrens Theatre Association of SF
Bay Area Childrens Theatre - Berkeley