Surefire Tips For Getting Spectacular Kids Headshots

Too stiff, too age-inappropriate, not what casting directors want to see - these are some of the problems that occur when parents try to take kids' headshots on their own. While it's understandable that many of you want to save a few dollars when you are just starting out, your child's success depends on his/her actor shots so it's incredibly important to invest in great shots. You have to hire an experienced, professional photographer who knows how to deliver the kinds of photos casting directors, managers, and agents want to see.

Pick a Photographer Who Likes Children

Not only should the photographer you hire have experience shooting with children, he/she should also ENJOY shooting with children. There are several Los Angeles headshots photographers out there who aren't open to shooting children so make sure that when you speak with potential photographers you ask them how they feel about the matter. It's essential to find a professional who gets along well with children and who knows how to communicate with them. Actor shots must reveal a child's communication with the camera and only a photographer who likes kids and enjoys shooting with them will be able to bring out this natural expression.

Another important factor to consider when hiring someone to take kids' headshots is whether the photographer works quickly and efficiently. Speed and efficiency are essential when shooting with young children because after 10-20 minutes, children get antsy and are about ready to melt down. In this short amount of time, a photographer must be able to get several great shots. In addition, it's always helpful if a photographer is easygoing and has a great sense of humor in order to bring out your child's natural smile and persona.

Achieving the Right Look

Kids are supposed to look like kids in their photos, not mini-adults. Los Angeles headshots photographers with experience taking actor shots for children will tell you that the most important thing about children's shots is that they must look natural. Actor shots aren't pageant photos so don't put your child in a frilly dress or tux. Keep clothing casual, simple, and clean cut. Avoid shirts with characters or logos because they are distracting. Make up is generally not necessary and as for hair, a natural style will usually do. One of the keys to a great shot is that the child looks his/her age in the photo. In most of the shots, your child should be pictured with a warm, natural smile and in other shots with a more serious expression.

How to Prepare for a Shoot

When is your child the most alert and pleasant? Make sure to schedule your shoot within that time frame. Grumpy, sleepy children don't make for good kids' headshots. If your child usually naps in the afternoon, schedule the shoot earlier to avoid interrupting his typical schedule.

Make sure your child gets enough sleep the night before the shoot and feed him or her a nutritious breakfast on the day of the shoot. Avoid sugary foods because sugar tends to make kids hyper and distracted. A healthy, balanced breakfast of fruit and oatmeal or something of the like will help your child feel focused and energized for the shoot. Don't forget to bring bottled water and light snacks to the shoot in case your child gets hungry.

When speaking with different Los Angeles headshots photographers, ask to see examples of their work to review. Do the children in the photos look happy? Do they appear natural? Are the photos flattering? Is the child the focus in the photo with nothing else distracting from him/her? If you answered yes to all of these questions, then you have potentially found a photographer who's capable of taking spectacular shots of your child.

Whether you're hoping your child will be the next Haley Joel Osment or you simply want to test the waters of the acting world, great kids' headshots are absolutely essential because they will get your foot in the door. Fabulous shots will help your child get more work and achieve success as an actor. This is one area in which you don't want to try to scrimp and save - hire a professional photographer and get professional results!