Headshot Rules You Should Ignore

[Best Headshot Photographers Los Angeles by Vanie]

Can I wear bright lipstick in a headshot?

Can I wear hats in a headshot?

Is jewelry allowed in headshots?

Is a scarf okay?

Can I wear bold colors?

Should I not wear black?

The list 📃 of questions about headshot do’s and don’ts is endless, and yet actors falsely believe there are a set of rules they need to know about before taking headshots.

MY PHILOSOPHY IS THAT THERE ARE NO RULES.

Well, okay, maybe a couple of technical rules, such as headshots these days need to be closeups and shot in portrait orientation for casting sites.

Oh, and maybe the fact that they need to be in color… only because black-and-white headshots might make you look dated. 😬

The fact is this:

THE PURPOSE OF A HEADSHOT is to clearly and effectively show your reps and casting directors the roles you are right for.

Each look should be within your brand and get you auditions for the right roles.

Once you wrap your head around the purpose of a headshot being a business card and not just a nice picture of you, the answer to all these questions becomes very clear. 💡

If your choice of accessory, color, hair or makeup etc. serves to clarify the look, then the answer is yes you can!

If your choice of say, a particular hat, is a choice simply because you like that hat, then you’re on the wrong track.

STOP 🛑 before picking out your wardrobe and accessories and ask yourself if that particular piece adds to your purpose.

If the answer is yes, then go for it.

Don’t try and memorize a whole set of rules that don’t really exist!

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