Child Actor Headshot Tips #1: What makes a good child actor headshot?

The ability to grab a director’s attention through strong, engaging eye contact is a unique selling point and makes for a great child actor headshot.

You want to make sure your child is comfortable and relaxed during the session. This will help them feel natural and not forced in front of the camera.

Finally, it’s important to choose the right clothing and accessories for your child’s headshot. You want something that compliments their features and makes them look their best. With these tips in mind, you’re sure to end up with a great child headshot that you’ll cherish for years to come.

During our hour-long session, I coach child actors in a variety of poses that included butter-wouldn’t-melt smiles, toothy Cheshire cat grins and relaxed ‘Mona Lisa smiles’.

In addition to one-on-one coaching, I also model a variety of poses that are perfect for child headshots. My goal is to help your child get the best smile and expression in their photos.

With my help, budding child actors can find their own unique style and persona in their photos. My aim is to give them the confidence to feel good about themselves during the session.

And that includes a little bit of silliness along the way.

Related: How I work

Child Actor Headshot Tips #2: Choosing the right photographer

When it comes to child headshots, there are a few things you want to keep in mind to get the best results.

It’s important to find a photographer who has experience working with children. They will know how to capture their personality and energy in a photo.

So, if you’ve received that email from your agent asking you to send over your child’s headshot for a casting, and they need the portfolio across immediately.

Don’t be rushed into choosing the first photographer you find online, child headshots are a specialised area and agents are very particular about the type of photographs they’ll select.

The process of finding the right child actor headshot photograph can make you feel rushed and stressed.

My recommendations are:

• Ask other parents who they used for their children’s headshots
• Ask your agent for a list of recommended photographers
• Google image search for photographers in your area
• Check reviews online and follow through with personal recommendations

Child Actor Headshot Tips #3: What should you avoid in child actor headshots?

Any parent of a child actor knows the importance of a good headshot. A headshot is often the first impression an agent or casting director has of your child, so it is important to make sure it is a good one.

Here are some things to avoid when taking child actor headshots:

Don’t use props – they can be distracting and take away from your child’s face.

Avoid bright patterns or big logos – this ensures a professional look.

Wear clothes that reflect your child’s interests and age – they need to show themselves beyond their public persona

Heavy Photoshop (see below)

Resist the temptation to rush – let your child ease into the session

Over direct – directors are looking for honest personalities, not a stage persona.