GETTING STARTED
Does My Child Need Professional Headshots to Start Acting?
BY JENN BOYCE
FORMER HOLLYWOOD TALENT AGENT & FOUNDER OF THE HOLLYWOOD PREP
This is another one of those “it depends” answers. 😂
It depends on your child’s age, where they are in the process and—especially as they get older—how clear you are on their type and brand.
For little kids, there aren’t a million different “types.”
They’re cute. They’re quirky. They’re a character. They’re beautiful. Or maybe they’re a little bit of all of those things.
So if you have a super outgoing little kid who loves performing and you’re getting close to looking for a Talent Agent, then yes, I think it’s time to get some great headshots.
But please hear me on this:
Get industry-standard headshots.
Please don’t spend money on just any photographer because they take beautiful pictures of children.
There is a BIG difference between a beautiful portrait of your child and a headshot that actually works in the entertainment industry.
I don’t want you spending money on photos you’re just going to have to replace.
How Much Should Child Actor Headshots Cost?
Generally, I would expect to spend somewhere around $250–$700 for professional child actor headshots, depending on the photographer, their experience and how many looks you’re shooting.
And you don’t need 47 looks. 😂
For younger kids, two looks may be plenty. Maybe three.
As kids get older, you may want three or possibly four—but this is where I want you to be really clear about what you’re trying to accomplish with each one.
Don’t change an outfit just to change an outfit.
Each look should have a purpose.
What Does “Type” Mean for a Child Actor’s Headshots?
As your child gets older, type and brand become much more important.
I want you thinking:
What roles could I realistically see my child playing?
That’s what the headshots need to communicate.
When a Casting Director, Agent or Manager sees that picture, I want them to immediately start imagining where your child fits.
Your headshots are marketing materials.
They’re not just pretty pictures.
And that’s a really important distinction.
Should I Use an Entertainment Industry Headshot Photographer?
YES.
If you’re going to spend the money, please use someone who understands what Agents and Casting Directors are actually looking for.
Agents can be VERY picky about headshots.
You may sign with an Agent who takes one look at the brand-new headshots you just paid for and says:
“I hate these. We need to reshoot.”
And of course you smile and say:
“Okay, great!”
While inside you’re thinking…
“Aw poop. I JUST did these!” 😂
Can that still happen when you use a great industry photographer? Absolutely. Every Agent has preferences.
But I think you’re much less likely to find yourself starting all over again if you work with a photographer who consistently shoots working actors and understands what the industry needs.
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And once you’ve found the right photographer, there are a few things you’ll want to know before your child’s session. What should they wear? What should you avoid? And how do you make sure those headshots actually look like your child?
I’ve put together some of my favorite dos and don’ts to help you get it right the first time.
Don’t Spend Money Just to Check Headshots Off Your List
This is really the bigger lesson.
I don’t want you rushing out to get headshots simply because somebody told you, “Your child needs headshots.”
First, make sure your child is ready.
Then think about their type.
Know what you’re trying to capture.
And when it’s time to spend the money, do it right the first time whenever possible.
Because this business can get expensive very quickly.
There are going to be plenty of things you’ll need to spend money on along the way.
Let’s try really hard not to pay for the same thing twice. 😂
Let’s try really hard not to pay for the same thing twice. 😂
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First, make sure your child is ready. Know what you’re trying to capture. And when it’s time to spend the money, do it right the first time whenever possible.
Jenn's
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