The Big Picture

Acting/Modeling Photos- Dazzle Model & Talent Agency

I could really make this a long article, but I’ll be short, sweet, and get straight to the point. If you’re a seasoned talent, you already know how important it is to have a great head shot. But, it goes a little further than that. Your head shot could be the key to a future in the entertainment business. Great photo’s can “make you or break you” as far as getting an audition. BUT, your photo’s are also going to be one of your biggest and best investments in your career so be prepared to pay a little money out. It will be worth it.

Who needs a professional photo? Every agency has their own policy with ages. Babies should not need professional pictures because their looks change so much and this can get quite expensive to have their photos taken every three months throughout their toddler years. I, as an agent, now prefer children 5 and older to get professional photo’s taken. It tends to make a better impression with some casting directors, but that’s not always the case.

A casting director or talent agent would much rather see one great picture rather than 6 “pretty good” pictures. Either a natural smiling or serious photo works, but I think a child with a big grin on their face not only shows their true beauty, but personality also. For teens through adults, either works fine, but I still prefer color over black and white, although opinions may vary.

And lastly….I cannot stress how important it is to keep your photos current. If you color your hair or have it cut, (get new photos). If you no longer look like your picture, get new photos. For adults, I suggest they get a new portfolio (which consists of both head and body shots) done at least once a year as long as they still look like their picture. It’s always nice to have an outside photo session because it gives you so much more ability to be creative.

Here’s how it works….you get an audition and its time to see the casting director, producer, or photographer for face to face confrontation. In front of them will be the photo that was sent in by you or your agent and what there are expecting is to see the person in the picture. There should be no difference between you and the photo they have. If there is, this could cost you not only an audition, but you have now wasted precious time for a director who is extremely busy.

So, after reading this article, I hope I have given many, an insight as to how important pictures are in the entertainment industry. Good luck with your photo sessions and have fun with them. It’ll show in the outcome of your photos!

Kelly Neff - Owner
Dazzle Model & Talent Agency