A headshot is not just a nice photo of your face. Casting directors and agents in New York look at hundreds of them, and yours is the first thing they see. It has to show personality, range and professionalism, and still look like you. This guide from Dante's Models covers how to get there.
Choosing an NYC headshot photographer
Pick someone who specializes in actor and model headshots and knows what the NYC industry expects.
- Specialization: Look for portfolios made up mostly of actor and model headshots. Those photographers know the angles, lighting and expressions casting directors and agencies look for.
- Industry knowledge: They should know what's working in the NYC market right now, for example whether outdoor shots or more intimate studio portraits are favored, and guide you from that.
- Personality match: You need to feel at ease. A good headshot catches real emotion, and that only happens when you feel safe being yourself. Book a short consultation to see how they work.
- Variety: Check that their portfolio shows different "types" and expressions, so they can help you show your range.
What to wear
Clothes should flatter your features and not pull attention from your face.
- Bring options. Bring 5-7 different tops or layers. Your photographer can try different things, and you get variety for different looks.
- Color: Solid jewel tones, such as deep blue, emerald green or burgundy, work with most skin tones. Black and white are classic, but make sure they don't wash you out. Avoid busy patterns, logos and neon, which distract and date the photo.
- Fit: Clothes should fit well, be comfortable and be clean. Too baggy adds bulk, too tight looks uncomfortable. Tailored usually photographs best.
- Necklines and layers: V-necks and scoop necks are usually flattering and lengthen the neck. Bring a few necklines. Jackets, cardigans and blazers add depth and let you change mood and character quickly.
- Your "type": If you're usually cast as the corporate professional, the friendly neighbor, the edgy artist or the sophisticated urbanite, dress for a few looks that match the roles you want in NYC.
Hair and makeup
Aim for polished and natural. Casting directors want to see you, not a heavily made-up character.
- Makeup artist: Optional, but we recommend a professional MUA who does headshots. They know how makeup reads on camera and can enhance your features without looking unnatural.
- Hair: Clean, styled naturally, and how it looks on a good day. Bring a comb, brush and any products for touch-ups. You might start with your hair down, then switch to a simple ponytail or bun for a second look. Skip complex styles and extra product.
- Makeup for women: Fresh, clean and natural. Use matte foundation to avoid shine, define your eyes with subtle eyeliner and mascara, and pick a natural lip color. Avoid heavy contouring, glitter and anything trendy that will look dated soon. You should look like you could walk into an audition right after the shoot.
- Grooming for men: A clean shave or a neatly trimmed beard. Moisturize to avoid dry patches and use a little lip balm. Style your hair so it stays in place. Your photographer might have light powder to cut shine.
Posing
Posing for a headshot is small adjustments, not a dramatic stance. Your photographer will guide you, but the basics help.
- Eyes: The eyes matter most. They need to be alive and look straight at the lens, and so at the person viewing the photo. Practice expressions in a mirror: surprise, warmth, determination, vulnerability.
- Body: Even in a headshot, your body shows. Shoulders slightly back, chin slightly forward to avoid a double chin, posture relaxed. Avoid stiff, unnatural positions.
- Vary your expressions: Don't give just one smile. Try a genuine open smile, a warm approachable one, a thoughtful serious look, and a confident gaze. That shows casting directors your range and type.
- Think of a character: Decide who you're showing in each shot: the best friend, the leading lady, the villain, the quirky sidekick. Let your eyes and small facial changes carry it.
Let your personality show
The best headshots in New York catch a real person.
- Relax and trust your photographer. Drop your shoulders and breathe. Real expressions come when you're comfortable.
- Be yourself. Casting directors and agents in NYC look for authenticity. If you're goofy, let a hint of it show in a few shots. If you're intense, use that.
- Move. Shift your gaze, move a little, even laugh. The most natural moments often make the best shots.
- Talk to your photographer. Share your goals, your favorite roles, or what you did last weekend. Conversation helps you relax.
Headshots with Dante's Models
Dante's Models is a photography studio and a modeling agency based in NYC. Our photographers shoot headshots for casting directors and talent agents across New York. We help with wardrobe, hair and makeup, and posing, and we help you define your type, whether you're aiming for Broadway, film, commercial work or high fashion.
To book a headshot session, or to ask about the agency, go to dantet9.com.
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Photo by Luis Quintero on Pexels
