Actor Headshots & Becoming An Actor

Palm Beach Acting Headshots Photographer

Click on the above images to rotate * Below images to see full size

Update: I will be posting the actor headshot which this actor went with; Hope this helps!

When becoming an actor, Actor Headshots are one of the most important requirements and can make the difference in getting casting calls and not. Headshots for actors help agencies place their talent with Film Makers, TV Producers and alike. No matter if you’re looking to become a Hollywood Super Star California Actor or star in a Disney Production in Orlando, FL a high quality acting headshot by and professional headshot photographer is critical!

Last week I received a bunch of requests via my Twitter and Facebook account requesting that I would place a few examples of what actor headshots look like and explain what makes one better than the next.

Well, all of you with this question are in luck. Just yesterday a great guy named Benjamin James came into my photography studio to have his Acting Headshot photographed before leaving for LA California to pursue an acting career.

Normally I do not place unretouched work online but in this case and for discussion sake I’m putting a hand full up without knowing which he will decide on. Some images would work as a headshots and others simply as portfolio pieces.

So, what makes Actor Headshots good?

Well, without getting into a very long discussion about the industry in general; here’s a short break down of what makes an actor headshot a good one / What it must have or do:

• Must depict the actor in his or her best light * You just gotta look good, plain and simple; nothing highbrow here!
• Must be Timely * Should appeal to “today’s” Agencies / Movie & TV Producers * Always be hip & in fashion * NEVER look dated!
• Must not “LOOK” heavily retouched or altered  * How many of you have seen “modeling photos” that look like plastic dolls?
• Must have an eclectic essence or mass appeal * You don’t want to ever be pigeonholed as an actor!
• Must brand YOU as to who you are or who you aspire to be * Read my Branding Article to learn more about this concept

Becoming an actor is not an easy process but with a good base of collateral materials you will have a leg up over the next aspiring actor or actress.

In an up an coming article I will be explaining what is an Actor Comp Card and why an Actor Portfolio is also very important when courting acting agencies for casting calls.

So if you’re interested in acting, go out and find the best headshot photographer in your area that understands the industry and commission a session today. You do not have to go with the most expensive but please don’t look for a “budget photographer” as this is your brand, your image, your calling card, so to speak, which you will be entrusting with this person! A bad actor headshot can be worse than none at all!

For inquiries regarding our Professional South Florida based Photography Studio in Sunny West Palm Beach or to book a session, please ring us at 561.762.8968 or simply complete our contact form located here!

As always, I want to here from you! Comments, Questions & Suggestions for future topics are encouraged!

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The Creating of an Image & Professional Branding of a Company

I’m publishing this short entry as a follow up to my previous article entitled ” Professional Branding Portraiture Photography – Ditch the 80’s Real Estate Head Shot “. Let me beginning by giving you some background: A few weeks back the studio receives contact from a brand new company which was in need of a “Look“, a “Brand“, or “Image” to allow their clients to recognize them immediately when seeing their promotional materials.

This strong association between the Company and the Brand is one of the most critical factors when starting a new venture and is so often over looked..

How many of you have been handed a business card that was pure white, with color text, and sporting a logo which was certainly picked out of a book at a local print shop? Come on… How many? Over the years, I’ve seen my fare share of this type of rubbish which negatively reflects on the business no matter how “fantastic they are or say they are”.

Remember, if it appears to a client that you are not taking your company seriously, I assure you, they will not either! As they say: ” Too make money one must spend money “! When starting a new business you can cut corners and save money in many areas but when it come to the face of your establishment, it’s “BRAND” or “IMAGE”, this is something you must pay a professional to get it right.

In this economy mediocrity it no longer acceptable. Be stellar or find another profession!

Anyways, sorry for the rant… As I was saying, the owner & partner of this brand new company approached us and instead of asking for my company to come up with an image concept for them, they described exactly what they wanted conceptually and ask if we could make it into reality.

I ABSOLUTELY LOVE A CHALLENGE and this was certainly one! After discussing their business, product line and their target group along with their concept we determined that the majority of the project would have to be completed within the confines of Photoshop. I was instructed to create a corporate brand / logo ” CHARM ” as it was, to be worn on a models necklace. Everything you see, beside the model was composited to create specifically to what the client visualized and articulated to us prior to the session. From the look of the lipstick, virtual nameplate and everything else was produced to achieve a certain look & feel that would hit home with the target demographic being marketed.

As you can see, the fruits of this Corporate Branding Production will now be the backbone of which this new company builds upon. Having a vision and finding the right professional to turn that vision into reality is more than half the battle. It is critical, It is imperative, It is the perception!! … given off by your brand, without words, that can reaches out, grab and hold a client’s intrigue while urging them to take the next step. (No matter what that that step might be to fulfill your marketing plan)

So, the next time your at a social networking gathering and someone asks for your card, don’t pull out something generic and lackluster which will certainly end up in a bin by the end of the evening! Hand to the potential client something you are passionate about, something that will create intrigue without you having to say a single word! This is your Brand! This is your Image! This is You! A brand new professionally produced promotional card which oozes your brand from every inch of it’s area will forever ingrain your company, product or service into the mind of the beholder.

As always, thank you for visiting and don’t hesitate to contact our studio for all your Photographic, Design & Multimedia Production needs.

Please indulge me by 1st becoming a Facebook Fan and 2nd please, be so kind as to write a short comment below & share your thoughts & ideas! Thanks again!

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The Role of a Professional Modeling Portfolio Photographer

Recently I had the absolute pleasure to work with a great model with tons of spark and a good head on her shoulders. Above you can see a few of the snaps made during this studio session.

Modeling Portfolio Photography, like Head Shots or Comp Cards must depict the client in their most SALABLE light. The difference between the Portofolio, Head shots and Comp Cards is simply the number of photographs a model has to use to “get the job“, so to speak.

An easy way to look at this is simply —- The Head Shot is your Business Card; The Comp Card is your Invitation to get in the door; while your Portfolio is the eclectic representation of YOU as a model that will open the greatest number of doors and ultimately “seal the deal” with the agency or art director.

A professional photographer should not only focused on making stunning images but creating an inherent value to the product, service or client photographed by him or her.

For professional modeling photography based in sunny West Palm Beach South Florida, do not hesitate to contact us @ 561.762.8968 or drop us a note via our contact form.

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I’ve never posted clients testimonials before but I figured it might help to hear what past clients have said during the last couple of months:

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DN –

Fabiola and Joseph were so patient in giving me all the details of my session over the phone.  When I arrived for my session they both made me feel very comfortable and guided me through the whole process.  Fabiola did a great job with my hair and makeup!  Joseph spent an extended amount of time making sure he got all the right shots!  I knew I was in good hands and trusted them all the way!  My photos are absolutely beautiful as a result of both their hard work and talents.  I’m sure my fiancée will love them all!  Great job!!

DN

Ina S. -

Working with Joseph and Fabiola exceeded my expectations. I guess it has something to do with my bad experiences in the past. I did quite a few photo shoots, but I was never satisfied with the final result, because photographers were creating something else from me, but not revealing my true self. I think the job of a photographer is to emphasize the best things in you and to hide your weaknesses. I think both Joseph and Fabiola achieved that goal. They were extremely professional, efficient and what I loved most about them, they truly enjoyed what they were doing and they put all their heart into it. I enjoyed the atmosphere, because it was very relaxing, friendly, and inspiring. Isn’t it the key for a great photo shoot? I would absolutely work with them again, because I loved their fast pace approach, the energy in the room, absolutely stunning results, and great memories that will remain with me forever.

Ina

Lynn B. -

Allure Multimedia delivered on its promise of a classy versus trashy boudoir photo shoot experience. I was nervous and camera shy which soon dissipated and I felt comfortable working with Joseph and Fabiola as they are experienced professionals with your best look in mind.

Lynn

Jennifer P. -

I didn’t know what to expect when I started researching photographers for a boudoir shoot.  I was nervous about the entire process, but from the first phone call to Joseph I felt at ease.  The communication was great from then on – I always received prompt responses to emails or phone calls, and he was more than willing to answer any questions I had.  On the day of the shoot I was SO nervous!  But once I arrived, Joseph and his wife Fabiola made me feel completely at ease.  There was never any moment when I felt uncomfortable or weird, something I most definitely expected.  Fabiola’s hair and make up job was absolutely fantastic.  I remember looking in the mirror and thinking, wow, I didn’t know I could look this good!  LOL  I don’t really think I photograph well, and was wondering about just how many pictures I would actually like.  Well, after receiving my proofs, I’m having a hard time not selecting all of them!!!  Really, the photos are so far above what I expected I can’t even describe it.  This was such a fun experience and I am so happy with the finished products.  I would give my highest recommendation to Joseph and Fabiola.  Thank you, thank you, thank you for such beautiful photos!!!

Jennifer

Ashley W. -

Joseph,

I wanted to write you and say thank you for your incredible artistic vision and talent. The quality of your work is absolutely amazing.  The engagement shots you captured of us on September 20th were truly captivating.  Every photo is so meaningful and real to Derick and I.

Since the moment I started planning our wedding, one of the most important things to me was to have an excellent one of a kind photographer. I wanted to make sure that we would have wonderful pictures to last us a lifetime of memories. From the first conversation I had with you and that first glance of your portfolio I knew that you were a perfect match for us. Everything from the package price to promptness to quality to just the sound of your voice and the feelings I got while speaking with you exceeded my every expectation!

Honestly, we couldn’t have chosen a better photographer to photograph Derick and I. Not only are you professional but so personable and fun.  Your personality truly helped us relax on the day of our engagement shots as we were both very nervous. Your energy made you a joy to work with and the impressive photos you shot were just what we wanted and asked you for! After viewing these photos for the first time both Derick and I had permanent smiles on our faces.  We have so many favorite pictures that we literally cannot choose just one to be our favorite. I must look at these photos again and again in amazement at how wonderful they look.  I have never been one to love photos of myself but you really captured a beauty in me that I so desperately needed to see of myself.  I look at these photos and see not only the love Derick and I feel for one another but how beautiful I really am.  Thank you for this, you are truly an inspiration.  I must say that your work has us very excited about you shooting our upcoming wedding.  I not only have all the confidence in the world in you but I’m also truly honored to have such a talented and artistic gentleman be a part of our special day.

I can’t thank you enough, Joseph.   You are truly one in a million!!!!!!!

Ashley Wright

Where to begin, all I have to say is, wow what a difference. I am a bride to be, who was looking for a sensual, yet classy, bridal boudoir photography for my soon to be husband. I have never in my life taken professional photos, so I was a bit nervous and after a brief search online, I found (what I considered at the time) the BEST deal. Boy was I wrong. After a long drive, I arrived at this studio, and began to undress. I had nothing to compare it to, so to me the weird, uneasy feeling of these strange and unnatural poses, was well probably normal. When the hour session was finished, he allowed me to look at the pictures, I was mortified. The pictures showed EXACTLY what I felt, unnatural, uneasy, weird, insecure look. At this point I thought it was just me, I just should’ve done better. So I wanted to try again, and perhaps force myself to be a bit more sexy. I searched more thoroughly and close by I found “Allure Multimedia” after immediate response from Joe, I was ready to shoot again. Upon arrival I met his gorgeous wife Fabiola, (AMAZING at what she does), who took care of my makeup and hair. I instantly felt as if I had known them my whole life, and I opened up like never before. The comfortable, yet professional atmosphere was amazing. It was a complete opposite feeling of what I had experienced before. We were joking, laughing, and the best part everything was so natural. They both directed the shoot, and made me feel as relaxed as possible. Words can not describe the attention and courtesy I was given. After seeing my pictures, WOW what a difference. The emotions really shown through, who was this classy, natural, sexy girl!? Even after the shoot, the communication remains the same. Joe was very helpful in accommodating my budget and making sure I got everything I wanted. I have no complaints, and in fact will be recommending him to all of my friends. My only regret is not going to him first, he is worth EVERY DOLLAR!

Thanx Joe & Fabiola!!

XoXo

Heidy G.

Andrea B. –

I had never sat for a professional photo shoot before I arrived at your studio.  I was so very nervous about everything.  I was told not to worry about make-up or hair that Fab had everything, but as a female I had to wonder, “Is she going to have the right colors?  Is she going to know what to do with my hair?  -  should I bring my own things anyway?” and on and on.  After dressing me for the first set, I was extremely impressed and perfectly at ease.  I had never looked better!  You guys are true professionals and incredible artists.  Thank you so much for the amazing photos!  It was such a memorable experience.  I can’t wait to do it again.  I am telling all of my friends about you.

You are both FAB!!

Nicole F. –

Joseph Cristina from Allure Multimedia, LLC is a pleasure to work with. Not only does he have a keen eye for detail, he steps out the box using a unique energy and creativity in all his shots! His work is tremendous.  I have utilized his services for several charity events since 2006 and am thrilled with the finish product.  I would highly recommend Joseph for a variety of photographic medium; parties, events, portraits, etc.

Jeannine D. -

My child was approached by an agency to possibly think about modeling.  As a parent, I had no idea about how to go about this process and my first concern was the security and safety of my child.  In researching photographers to use for his head shots, I met with Allure Multimedia.  The owner was very professional and not only educated me on what to look for in photography, but also talked me through the process of modeling agencies.  At the shoot, the staff (owner and makeup artist) worked well with my child and moved him through the process quickly.  We ended up with several excellent photos and my son was excited to move forward.  The staff at Allure really demonstrates patience and takes the time to help you and your child feel very much at ease.

Virginia V. -

Hi Joseph,

Just wanted to thank you for that wonderful engagement photo shoot that we had on Sunday. You are a wonderful person and an excellent and professional photographer. We couldn’t have made a better choice. It was a pleasure to work with you and we can’t wait to see the pictures (which we already know are going to be espectacular) and to have you again at our wedding. My mom has said so many wonderful things about you to all her friends that they are already asking for your info to hire you for their weddings and other events (I am going to need some of your business cards ).

Again, we are so thankful for your work and effort in making everything perfect for us, you are a true artist, simply awesome.

Thank you very much,

Virginia V. y Brandon R.

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Do I Need a Professional Photographer?

The following was inspired by a Poll introduced by @photojack on Twitter. The question posed was a simple one with a not so simple answer:

What Word or Phrase would you use to best describe the Photography industry today?

My answer was simply “ IN FLUX “ as I believe more than ever, that the amateurs in the industry are being weeded out daily and the professional photographers, passionate about their profession, like cream, are quickly rising to the top.

The introduction of digital technology has brought into to the market many part-time “shooters” that are directly competing with the full-time professional photographers. No studio expense, cheap equipment, many times no backup cameras, lens, lighting and charge a fraction of what a true full-time professional has to charge to make a living, all while providing mediocre photography at best.

During this “ FLUX “ the number of projects that I take on per month that are “re-shoots “ for clients that chose to use one of these part-timers has quadrupled from 2007. Most ask for a reduction in my rates as they indicate they already spent “X dollars“ and are over budget… and I simply say … (well, I’ll let you fill this in later)

Back to the question at hand “Do I Need a Professional Photographer? “

I ask:

• Do you need a Photographer that has years of experience?
• Do you need a Photographer that can capture your vision the first time?
• Do you need a Photographer that is equipped with backup incase of failure?
• Do you need a Photographer that will give you an IMAGE and not a SNAPSHOT?
• Do you need a Photographer that is insured?

… this list can go on and on but I think you get the point.

If you answered NO to any of the above I’m confident that you would do just fine by having a non-professional photographer for your project or event and can safely STOP READING NOW.

Continue Reading »

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