All headshots need to be fit for purpose. On a basic level, they should be flattering and compliment the subject. However to be truly effective it’s important to understand who they need to appeal to: buyers, executives or in this case talent agencies and retail brands. The headshots then need to be designed with this in mind.
There are many similarities between modelling headshots and professional headshots, both are there to show off your best assets and depict a certain type of character, normally painting a picture of confidence and trust.
A model headshot needs to give as much information as possible within the confines of the frame. Top agents are also time-poor and can look at dozens of headshots in a single sitting so you really need to get as much information across in as little time as possible. Exactly what to show (and what not to show) will depend on the type of niche you’re thinking about entering: fitness / beauty / couture / swimwear are just a few.
Challenges
Having a deep understanding of lighting is crucial not only to light the face in the most flattering way but also to carve out the definition in the physique. Sometimes these two goals can compete with one another as most of us want a soft and smooth texture to the face but a harder and more defined texture on the body.
Here are a few images from a professional session at our Sydney headshot studio, which was extended to include some images she could use for a model portfolio. It was her first time being photographed so basic coaching on posing and posture was needed but she took to it like a pro. It was great to work with her and help create a variety of images to start a fitness portfolio, including a killer headshot that also hints at her toned physique killing two birds with one stone.
Photography by Sammer Affridi @ Hero Shot Photography
