Homework Sucks...
but this is actually kinda fun
Headshot Homework
So you’ve booked your session…now what?
Congratulations! With a little bit of homework, we can make sure you’re well-prepared, confident, and poised to make these your best photos yet.
IDENTIFY YOUR GOALS:
What are your goals for both the session and your immediate future? What type of work are you booking now and what type of work would you like to book moving forward? Think about where you’d like to be in the next year or two. Remember, your life and career are a marathon - not a sprint, so take note of what each step on that journey looks like for you.
IDENTIFY YOUR AESTHETIC:
You hired me because you liked my work, but what caught your eye? Create of collection of images (aka a mood board), pulling from my photos, your friends’ photos, or anywhere else that helps define your aesthetic. This could be a color palette, lighting styles, poses, etc. Share these with me anytime before the camera comes up so I can apply those ideas to your shoot.
SELECTING YOUR WARDROBE:
There is no singular collection of outfits that work for everybody. While there are certain pieces that photograph better than others, your headshots should show off your uniqueness and individuality. Overall, a variety of necklines and colors that compliment you are essential, avoiding unusual graphics or aggressive colors. Layers are your friend as they add interest while directing attention back up to your face. Keep the jewelry minimal or leave it out entirely - we want to present a blank canvas while showcasing our natural features. However, if you wear glasses (even just occasionally), BRING THEM.
HAIR & MAKEUP:
When you walk into an audition, it’s absolutely critical that you look like your headshot, so keep that in mind when deciding which direction to go. The camera sees things differently than our eyes and my hair/makeup artists understand that. If you’ve booked one of my artists, please provide them with a photo or yourself that demonstrates how you’d typically do your makeup in the room as a jumping-off point.
Just arrive with clean hair and face and they’ll handle the rest.
Please let me know about ANY food or makeup allergies you might have.
IF YOU HAVE AN AGENT, CONFER WITH THEM:
News Flash: Your agents know things, and they want you to book.
They stay up-to-date on industry trends, the type of roles you’re best-suited for, and what casting directors are currently seeking. It’s in their best interests to help guide your choices from wardrobe to roles. Talk to them about their aspirations for you and how you can most effectively achieve those goals.
AT THE SESSION:
Once you arrive to the studio, you'll settle in, get unpacked, and hang your clothes while talk about all the homework you’ve done here. Then we’ll pick a playlist and get you started with our hair/makeup artist, or if you’ve done your own, make any touchups you need and get started!
Dance Homework
Let’s think of your session as 3 acts…
More is totally fine, but 3 is what I aim for.
In the first act, you’re playing the lead in “ [ Your Name Here ], The Musical ”.
Wear something that you really feel like yourself in, a personality outfit.
You’re not performing here. You’re just being you.
In the second act, you’re the love interest. You’re elegant, you’re sexy, you’re fucking fabulous. A dress or flowing fabric can perform as a second dancer in a shoot - like your partner or lover, of sorts. Consider a fun jumper, cool pants, an interesting jacket, or perhaps something structured that carries lines well. These are all great.
The third act is your final outfit(s) are the supporting roles. They can be anything you want them to be. They don’t have to be related to each other, they can be total strangers - the only thing in common is their impeccable taste in fashion. A Fosse look, a fitness vibe, a cozy mood.
Or maybe a reprise of an earlier character.
It’s your show, you decide.
Now, of course this is just a jumping-off point and there are no rules here.
If we’re shooting outdoors, a pop-up changing tent will be provided for easy wardrobe swaps.
Whether we’re shooting outdoors or in-studio, I generally pick our top 3 outfits to prioritize then let anything else be optional toppings on your ice cream (or fro-yo, that’s cool).
It’s important to remember that this is your session and you can customize it however you’d like. I find that dancers are so accustomed to being told what to do and they’re rarely given the freedom to make creative choices. This is where we change that.
I’ll start the session by prompting you to move, pose, dance, etc - however you’d like. Some people like to channel their inner Tyra, some like to dance through little moments of choreography, and some prefer a more precise and intentional movement. Regardless, you’re dancing to express, not to impress. Close your eyes and picture yourself in a big empty dance studio full of mirrors where there are no mistakes - only movements. I’ll offer adjustments and suggestions as I learn how you move, without interrupting your expression.
Be confident in yourself.
They’re your photos. Nobody ever has to see what you don’t show them.
Individuals under the age of 18 at the time of the session must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, or a call/Facetime with them must be arranged ahead of time with me.
Getting to Me
If we’re shooting at my place, here are some tips…
I’ve included my address in your confirmation email. Please be sure to map things out ahead of time to estimate your travel time - and always leave a little wiggle room for MTA tomfoolery (I’ll try to notify you of any changes I may be aware of). Shoot me a text if you expect an early or late arrival. If you’re running late, please do your best to keep me informed of your updated ETA. If you're running early and I'm not quite ready for you, please consider supporting one of our local coffee shops where you can cozy up to a latte and pastry. Starbucks and Dunkin' don't love you.
The Studio:
The studio is located in Long Island City, conveniently sandwiched between the Court Square E/M/7/G and the Queensboro Plaza N/W/7, one block from the iconic Silvercup Studios.
There is street parking around the studio, but it's not always the most convenient. There are also a number of pay-by-the-hour garages in the area. However, if you decide to drive or Uber/Lyft, PLEASE ANTICIPATE TRAFFIC. With so many public transit options nearby, it's almost always faster to take the train than it is to drive, no matter what your maps app says. Regardless of how you're getting here, always leave time for unexpected delays and MTA tomfoolery.
The studio is located up one flight of stairs in a renovated 1920s factory loft filled with artists and artisans. There is a freight elevator available for disabled access during very limited hours, so please inform me immediately if you require ADA compliance.
Please alert me (and our makeup artist) to any severe food, makeup, or household product allergies you have ahead of time.
If you intend to bring someone to your session, kindly inform me ahead of time. While guests are typically welcome, it’s important that they be of benefit to you and not a hindrance.
Regardless of Session…
All that’s left is to show up, be yourself, and let me take things from here.
Need additional info?
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703-963-6083