28
Headshot Basics – Get Out of Your Head!
5 Comments | Posted by Kristen Honey in Headshots 101
It’s the day of your shoot. You’re excited and OMG…the butterflies are fluttering! There’s too much to think about. My hair. My make-up. My wardrobe. My smile. My zit! How can I be myself when I can’t even think straight?
You need to stop worrying! You need to “Get Out of You Head” and get into the shoot! It’s not that hard if you know how to do it. Here are a few tips that help my clients focus and be themselves on the day of the shoot:
Bring some music.
Make a playlist that’s going to help you be yourself. Add all different types of music. Maybe certain songs for certain looks. Music always has a way of bringing different emotions out. It can definitely set the mood and send you to a place where you don’t think so much. I’m always playing something when I’m shooting (both as an actor and photographer). Whether I bring my music on set or just listen to it while I’m getting ready – it helps to calm my nerves, and I become more focused.
Bring someone with you to your shoot.
Maybe your best friend, your boyfriend/girlfriend, mom, dad, etc… Having another person with you at your shoot can be an awesome way for the photographer to capture honest moments. But be careful, choose wisely who you bring with you. Sometimes that person may not be the best candidate for the job. Do they allow you to be a fool? Or do they make you self-conscious? Is it someone that knows you and loves you? Or is it someone you’re trying to impress? Who you bring will affect the emotions that the camera sees – so choose wisely who you want on set – but definitely use this tool to “get you out of your head.”
Get into character.
If you know what your casting is, and know what shows you are right for, then why not try a little acting! Get out of your head and into character. Treat the photo session like you were preparing for a role. This will allow you to think active thoughts that the photographer will capture. There’s no need to worry about your personal quirks when you’re in character. Just play the part and the photographer will follow. Trust me!
On the day of your shoot, the most important thing to remember is don’t get in your own way. Whether you use one of these tools or a trick from your own arsenal….Relax. Have a blast! And the photographer will do the rest:0)
What do you do to “Get out of your head” before a shoot? Leave your comments below:
5 Comments for Headshot Basics – Get Out of Your Head!
Summer | January 1, 2010 at 4:34 pm
lauren | January 18, 2010 at 1:58 pm
Shooting with Kristen was such an easy process! She has a great eye and makes sure she captures your best self. She always get the shot!
Sean Gray | January 21, 2010 at 4:06 pm
shooting with Kristen is always a comfortable process that enables you to relax into what your trying to get across in your shots. she has a great way of allowing you to be you without forcing it out, it just comes naturally. i’ve shot with Kristen several times and the only problem i’ve ever encountered with her shoots is that i have too many good shots to choose from, now that’s the kind of problems i like to have.. and so do my agents. she is literally my favorite photographer.
Kristin Hensley | January 30, 2010 at 10:30 am
I just shot with Kristen and I had a blast. I am really hesitant about digital photography but Kristen knows her stuff and my pictures are great. Being an actress herself, she understands the business and your needs! I left feeling very pleased and better yet-my agents were pleased too! Shoot with her!
Jeremy Radin | February 4, 2010 at 2:11 am
oh my gosh! i have to be up in 4 hours but i haven’t been able to go to sleep because i’ve been staring at the proofs kristen just sent me for the past hour. these are so easily the best shots i’ve ever had, i don’t even know what to do about it. i can’t wait to hand these to people. i mean anyone. i’m handing these out to grocery baggers and bank tellers and day laborers. for reals, guys! shoot with kristen! she’s super fun and super laid back and it even sometimes smells like barbecue! best shots EVER!
Kristen is the best! It’s like shooting with your best friend.