How to Prepare Yourself Physically and Mentally For a Headshots Photography Shoot

The key to success in taking great headshots is to feel confident and comfortable. Having a strong self-image is incredibly important because if you have insecurities, the camera will pick them up. In order to prepare for a headshots photography shoot, you have to be sure your hair and makeup are exactly the way you want them to be. Not only should you feel confident about your hair and makeup before you start shooting, you should also wear clothes you feel good in and make sure that you are in shape so you feel confident about your body. Simply put, if you don't feel confident in yourself, it will show in your headshots. Leave your insecurities at the door.

Go to a Shoot with the Right Attitude

It's important to prepare yourself mentally for a shoot. Relax and don't be afraid to speak up when something doesn't feel right. The headshots photographer you choose should be aware that taking headshots is a team effort. Your input is invaluable as is the input of everyone else involved in the shoot so make sure your voice is heard.

Sometimes actors make the mistake of not voicing their opinions. For example, if you are unhappy with the way a makeup artist does your makeup during your headshots photography shoot, you have to speak up. Otherwise you will feel uncomfortable while you are being photographed and be unhappy with the results. Essentially, your makeup and hair should look like you on your best day but keep it clean and natural. Your makeup shouldn't hide who you are. It should enhance your best features and if you have any flaws, take the focus away from them.

The more you prepare for your shoot, the better. If you have practiced working with expressions and come prepared, you will take much better photos and know exactly what types of looks you would like your headshots photographer to capture. If you are working with an agent or manager, you should consult him/her to find out specifically what types of shots you need.

The Morning of the Shoot

Drink lots of water on the day of your headshots photography shoot and don't drink excessively or smoke like a chimney because the camera will see it all. If you are hiring a makeup artist, come in with your face clean and moisturized and your hair done the way you think it looks best. If your shoot is in the morning, reduce puffiness in your skin by putting an ice cube in a soft fabric and patting your face with it. This is particularly important for the skin around your eyes. Do this for 5-10 minutes.

Most importantly, make sure you breathe deeply and relax before your shoot. Stop thinking about how you must take the best headshot in the universe. Take it easy because when you are able to relax in front of the camera without a worry in your mind, your headshots photographer will be able to get the good stuff.