Do you find getting what you want from your headshot photographer is as hard as getting what you want from your hairdresser?
When Martin needed new headshots for his acting career he had a definite idea in mind. He knew he wanted them in black and white and he knew he wanted to be able to show case his expressions.
Well as Martin’s second name is ‘Black’ we thought it would be a great idea to use a black background and a black top. A Black on black in black and white if you will!
Although this may look like they were shot in the studio they were actually shot in the Wevolution Hub in Greenock as this was easier for Martin to get to and a place that he feels comfortable with. You’d never guess but there was a room full of toddlers all around us while we were doing this. Who says the camera never lies!
‘I don’t want to be a floating head!!!’
The drama of black on black is ideal for making a feature of the face – exactly what Martin needs as his job as an extra for the TV and film industry. However he was a bit nervous that he would just be a floating head. I told him not to worry, the lighting will amazing!
And then I broke a flash trigger and flash gun – aaarrgghh.
Black on black really does need 3 lights. Luckily I had a reflector in the bag to help bounce a bit of light back over Martins shoulders. Thank goodness for all the expert training I’ve had over the years. Thank you Mr Damian McGillicuddy for helping me learn to bend light!
Let’s chat about what you want
Getting your headshot your way really isn’t difficult. I always suggest a consultation to anybody who is thinking about having headshots done for the first time or if you are updating old ones. A wee chat about what you like and what you don’t like can be all the difference in getting images you are happy with and images that you feel are a bit ‘meh’
We usually talk about clothing choices too. One of the big things about a headshot is ‘who is it for’? In Martins case its for his agent to show to potential casting directors. For Martin clothing choice was irrelevent but if you are using your headshots to promote your coaching business for example. then you may want to have a chat about how you’ll be perceived and who you want to attract.
Finally location – are you just needing a simple plain background and a single smiley image of yourself or would you like to capture an essence of where you work and what you do. In the second case we may build a set in the studio to replicate your office or we may go out on location with you.
It’s your headshot and your business so you really should get it your way!
