Question 1

How to plan for my headshot session?

Accepted Answer

First, with a positive attitude! Yes, nerves will always be there but you're taking a step in your career, we do this because we love it so.., ENJOY IT!

Talk to your agent! If you’re apart of a team,  we want to make sure we focus on the types of roles your agent is pitching you for.

No agent yet? No problem. What are the roles that you feel you are best suited for? ‘Ummm.. hello I’m an actor I can do everything’… yes, I totally get that. But take a look at the Vancouver film market right now. What’s filming here? Based on your look and style of acting what are the shows you are best suited for? Or in your acting classes, what are some of the character types that just flow from you easily? You can always book in a consultation with me if you want to discuss your brand and we can target a specific plan for your headshot shoot!

Question 2

What should I wear for my headshots?

Accepted Answer

This is the question I get the most. First things first, clothes that fit you and are clean. Okay, now that that’s out of the way! Clothes are something that can really add or distract from a headshot. Remember at the end of the day it’s about your eyes and the story you’re telling to the camera. I suggest that you focus your clothing choices based on your brand as an actor and the roles you go out for/want to go out for. Not just something you think you ‘should’ have because everyone else has it. Depending on which network we’re aiming for, I suggest more classic styles and try to stay away from logos or very tight patterns (so it doesn’t distort on camera). So, it’s probably best to keep that florescent neon lime green pin strip top in the closet this time around. I HIGHLY suggest trying on the clothes with the proper under garments a few days before the session this way you can see how everything fits. I will be shooting waist up so just wear a neutral/darker pair of jeans or pants. Something you can comfortably move around in. 
But you want specifics on what to bring.. (my perfectionist self likes the way you think) here is a guideline:

The Ladies
A variety of colours and tones (not just black, ladies). Items like tank tops, halter tops, shirts with different neck lines (crew, v-neck, scoop etc), blouses, light sweaters/jackets/cardigans/blazers
PROPER BRAS-- this is a big one! Just like when you book something, you should go to your fitting with a variety of bras along with the ability to make it strapless. Nude/skin tone is ideal but bring different colours depending on the tops you bring. Something with no patterns/lace/rhinestones on the bra — no one needs to see those rhinestones through your top, keep that for your significant other. While they might not be pretty and fun, bras are an investment so keep the receipt and expense it! Also nipple covers are a great option too
I recommend trying your clothes days leading up to the shoot with the different bras. This way you can see if the shirt is too see through and how everything fits
Jewelry! Earrings, necklaces, rings etc.
Nails — be sure your nail polish is fresh and doesn’t have chips
If you shave your armpits, let's make sure that everything is nice and clean for the day of the shoot

The Gentlemen
Shirts in a variety of colours and tones. Bring a selection of tops in different necklines, items like: T-shirts (in crew/vneck etc), henley shirts, polo tops, dress shirts, light sweaters/jackets/blazers
If you are shaving in between looks be sure to let me know so we can schedule time accordingly. If you get blotchy/very red after shaving,  please time how long it takes for the redness to go down so we can plan
Any jewelry you feel adds to your brand. Be it rings, earrings, necklaces/chains etc

Question 3

Clothing 'Don'ts' for Headshots

Accepted Answer

Be sure your clothes are clean and not stained (unless that’s the look your going for)
Don't just bring one tone/colour. It's always good to have range in your looks. Your headshot is a thumbnail after all, make each look different!
Don't bring clothes that make you feel crappy and not confident. No one has time for that
Writing/Logos — small logo’s can be removed but the goal of headshots are your eyes and not reading what’s on your shirt! Unless, once again, it’s a branding choice (ie super hero shirts, ironic tops for comedy purposes etc)
Workout shirts that have large reflective logos or marks — you’ll be under lights so.. surprise, it will reflect
Shirts that are see through (it's more common than you think-- try on your shirts before hand)
Super bulky sweaters/shirts to ‘hid your size’. Trust me, I love my super oversized shirts but we want to be sure we’re capturing who is going to be walking into the room and not hiding anything. Be proud of who you are.. you’re unique and you also have NO IDEA what the casting director is looking for. I do have the ability to pin things so if you’re in love with a colour shirt bring it and we’ll see what we can do
Transitional glasses. I shoot with a mix of natural and studio light, so your glasses will darken (it’s their job). I highly recommend that you invest in a second pair of non-transitional glasses because if you’re hit/brand have glasses, you’ll need them for auditions and set. Or ideally, glasses with the lens popped out!

ASHLEY ROSS STUDIOS

Frequently asked questions

How to plan for my headshot session?

What should I wear for my headshots?

Clothing 'Don'ts' for Headshots