1. Pre-Session
I want to know your expectations, questions, and goals specific to this shoot. Are these your first headshots? If not, is there anything that you particularly love or dislike about your current headshot? Let’s create an actionable plan so that you know exactly how to prepare and what to expect on the day of our session.
During our session, I will communicate small adjustments and give direction when necessary. I have numerous colored backgrounds to choose from, and I like to mix and match to see what works best.
It is imperative that you understand your casting prior to the session. As a fellow actor, I've been in your shoes, and I'm ready to help if you're unsure. If you have a good grasp on your casting, that’s great! Coming to the shoot with all of that in mind will make the experience smooth and streamlined. It will also allow us to play more in the moment, which will give us the best opportunity to be specific with each look.
Please bring an ample amount of clothing options for us to go through. That said, only bring articles of clothing that you truly love wearing. Your comfort is important, and you should allow yourself to have a little fun in choosing what makes the cut. I like to incorporate the philosophy from the Netflix show, Tidying Up with Marie Kondo (if you’ve never seen it, I highly recommend!) She says: if the item of clothing doesn’t bring you joy, then it’s most likely not a keeper. Pretty cool concept, right? I believe that certain clothes make us feel differently, and that can certainly be incorporated in to your casting. Does your leather jacket make the cut? Mine always does!
Try to bring a variety of tops with different necklines. Collared shirts, v-necks (not too deep), and layers can be great options. Don't bring anything with logos or writing. After all, you're the hero of the headshot - not another brand, right? Jewelry is normally kept at home as it will typically be a distraction. Once you’ve made your choices, please make sure that everything is steamed and/or ironed. Capturing clean, crisp looks will have more of an impact if your clothing is wrinkle-free.
During the week leading up to your shoot, please make sure that you drink plenty of water and get a good night's sleep. It makes a huge difference!
Hair and makeup is essential for everyone during a professional photoshoot. I want you looking your very best. If you prefer to do your own hair and makeup, that's terrific. Bringing extra make up (and a sponge for touch-ups) is helpful too, if you plan to do your own. Even though the lights aren’t temperature hot, oils still come through on our faces and sponges/powder help to minimize this effect.
2. The Session
I will capture as many photos, per look, as it takes in order to obtain what you want (within our 30 minute session). Typically, when we are in the groove, and we know what type of feel we are going for, I will get exactly what you want in a short period of time (throwing on a pair of lensless eye glasses does not count as an additional look). Another background color will not count as another look. The main goal is to make you feel as comfortable and open as possible as well as having some fun, of course! Giving you the privacy you want, I know, is something you may need, depending on the tone of what you would like captured, so the space will guarantee you that. I am 100% all for having you look your best.
3. Post-Session
After your session, I will sit down to review some of the shots with you. Even though the photos are raw, I want to make sure you know you’ve gotten what you want, and if not, I am more than happy to get you back in front of the lens. I am an actor…I understand that investing money in headshots isn’t an easy choice to make, and I want you to walk out VERY excited about every image you purchase with me. I will upload your low resolution photos to a private gallery within 1 day, so that you can start the process of choosing which ones you’d like retouched. In terms of choosing, if you are having trouble with that, I would be more than happy to offer up my feedback. We all need that unbiased opinion thrown our way. Our parent’s suggestions can only take us so far, right haha? Lastly, if you do decide to post your new headshots on social media, I kindly ask that you tag my IG handle: @capturing_kapcia_photos or FB page: @Capturing Kapcia Photography.
4. Retouches
I will provide high and low resolution photos, so that you can upload to social media/acting websites you belong to, and have the quality still be excellent. You can always contact me for any additional images you would like to purchase into the future. If you do decide to post your new headshots on social media, I ask that you please not place any filters on the final edit. It is important to mention that the final retouched photo will always look like you. I will make sure to take out blemishes, of course, but any smile lines that are natural to you will remain. I take pride in making sure you walk into that audition looking the way you truly are in the photo you submit. Nothing bugs casting more than a headshot that doesn’t look like the actor in the room (trust me, I’ve been that actor).
5. And Don’t Forget…
Headshots are a critical investment in your career, and I am equally invested in ensuring that you are satisfied with the final images. Confidence in your new shots will translate to every arena of your life whether you're in the audition room or not. Let’s have some fun!
Thank you in advance!
As an actor, I understand that choosing a headshot photographer can be stressful, unnerving, and anxiety inducing. I'm grateful and excited about taking this creative journey with you. If you are completely changing up your look or moving in a different direction in terms of casting, I can't wait to give you the image that will help you succeed. When it comes to marketing yourself, your face showcased in a dynamic headshot is the most important tool you have for getting in the casting door. Let's knock down that door together. Your success is my success, and I love nothing more than providing artists with the springboard they need to gain professional momentum. I want you to feel empowered from our working experience and proud to share The Real You with the world. I’m looking forward to working with you!