So, now you have a good set of headshots. Congratulations, you have taken one of the most important steps in booking work as a professional actor. But what’s next? I’m sure you’ve heard the old adage: if a headshot falls in the forest and no one hears it…We’re being silly here, but you get the point. It’s not enough to have an awesome headshot, it’s time to put your headshot to work.
Get some printed at a quality printer. Headshots are your calling card, so you want to always have some on hand. Keep headshots in your car with resumes stapled to the back. You never know who you might run into. You don’t want to be empty handed if you run into Spielberg, do you?! More realistically speaking when you get that same-day audition and have to run over from work, you’ll be covered. If you have a vision board put your headshot up there and envision yourself skyrocketing to success. And don’t forget to send one to the parental units. They’ll love showing their Hollywood-bound baby off to their friends.
Your headshot is the #1 marketing tool of an actor, so get it out there. Get it up on your accounts for Actor’s Access, Backstage, Casting Services, etc. Post your headshot to your social media accounts. Even better make one your profile picture; that way everyone who comes into contact with you knows that you are an actor. Use hashtags. Some good ones are #actor #actorslife #setlife #bookme. Use your new headshot as a way to get connected with others in the acting avenue you wish to pursue. Do your research. There are great groups and pages on social networks for actors. Join and share your headshot there. Some people even share their headshots unsolicited to the social media accounts of directors, producers, and CDs. This depends on your personal style, but make sure to keep it short and professional. You will be surprised what can happen from the smallest things.
If you’re trying to get an agent, a great headshot can help you get in the door for a meeting. Take the time and care to research agencies ahead of time. Always submit according to their guidelines. If they only take digital submissions, do not send your printed headshot. Also don’t be afraid to look at out-of-state agencies, there are many that work with non-local talent. When doing mail submissions to agencies send two different pictures at most (unless otherwise indicated) with your resume attached. Also include a brief cover letter highlighting your accomplishments and what led you to their agency. Referrals are the best. Don’t have one? You do. Start talking to your actor friends, teachers, etc. Ask (nicely) and you shall receive.
Before we head out of here and get back to shooting the best headshots in LA, we have a very important disclaimer for you. Show up to your audition looking like the headshot that the casting company has of you. They will love you for this! One of casting’s biggest complaints is that people don’t look like their headshots (This starts with choosing the right photographer and retoucher, but you’ve done that already). This means if you have short hair in your headshot don’t come to the audition looking like Rapunzel. If you have glasses in your headshot bring glasses with you. Stay true to what your headshot showcases because that is why casting called you in. They want to see that beautiful headshot come to life.