As an actor or performer you'll end up with over 100 images to choose from after any headshot session which is great.....the tricky part is knowing which images to pick! Do you just select the images you think you look 'best' in, or are there other things to consider (spoiler alert....there's a few things to think about)! Find out what they are below!
Use
The most important thing to consider when it comes to choosing your images is what they'll be used for. As much as you'll want to choose the images you think you look best in, as annoying as it sounds, the images aren't for you! Of course you're the one paying for them, but the reason you need a headshot is to show others how you look (or can look given different clothing/hair styles, expressions etc). What do they need to see?
Do you just need to look approachable, happy, and smiley to show someone what they'll see when you meet them in person or walk into an audition? Or are you looking to be cast for a certain role for example? It's so important to think about what your images will be used for and the look/personality you want to portray. Your choices might not necessarily be Instagram worthy shots pulling a pose you pull all the time.
Variety
Following on from the above, depending how many images you're purchasing it's worth choosing a few different angles, looks, and expressions. As much as you may love one specific look or angle for example, your portfolio should be filled with images showcasing your range. There's no harm in choosing 1 or 2 images your really like for Insta...just think about the variety of looks you may need in the near future as an actor or performer. You don't want to look completely the same in all your images.
Below you can see how even though she picked a similar head angle, Phoebe chose 2 quite different looks with the change in hair, top, background, pose, and expression. This will help to showcase her range and personality as she starts to build out her portfolio as a performer and apply for differing roles/jobs. She recently got signed by an agent too, well done Phoebe!
Guidance
Given you'll be the one picking your images, it can be tricky to look at them objectively as you'll have your own perceptions of how you look or want to look. As your images are to show others how you look, it may be worth having others look at your images to help you make your decision. Your family and friends look at you more than you look at yourself! Getting the opinion of family, friends, colleagues, agents or whoever else you trust, can be really useful. Having your own thoughts along with that of one or two others gives you much more to base your choices on.
Hopefully you're now a little more equipped when it comes to choosing your favourite headshot images post shoot...that still doesn't mean it's going to be easy though haha...good luck!! If you need a little more help, do get in touch!
Jonny
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