So, I know that I have work to do on my headshot and I have a list in my mind of what I think needs to be fixed - but I'd LOVE other people's opinions to let me know I'm a) not crazy and b) to show me things that are wrong that I haven't noticed. Also, when is it appropriate, if ever, to use a black and white headshot? I have red hair and blue eyes - so I feel like my coloring might actually help me stand out. Yes? No?
Thank you so much!

Headshot -

Hi Rebekah,
Yes, it's a must. If you don't have a color headshot then it appears to be a headshot that is over 8 years old. If this shot was in color, I would tell you that you can have bangs in your headshot but you shouldn't cover your eyes because that's half the expression on your face and makes it look like you are shy and hiding behind them. I also think a neckline is really important opportunity and gives you an additional 2 inches to tell a little more story in your headshot, in my opinion this is cropped too close and takes away any sense of body type as well as letting us know how long your hair is.
Hope that helps,
Joanna
http://www.joannabrooks.com
Headshots Los Angeles

Hi!
Thank you so much, that's very helpful! I thought that sideswept bangs would probably work better- I'm mostly a stage actress and I'm constantly being told that my big eyes sell me at auditions and are what win me awards and so on. Funny how things you're teased about as a kid turn into something positive when you're finally an adult! Anyway, thank you for your help!
Becky

I agree a lot with what Joanna said. Red hair and blue eyes are definitely unique and having a photo in black and white basically erased it.

The bangs covering the eyes were all the first thing I noticed before reading anything.

quote:

Also, when is it appropriate, if ever, to use a black and white headshot?

It is never appropriate in the United States to use a B&W headshot. Some overseas markets still use them, but no major (or minor that I know of) markets in the U.S. have used them for many years. If you land a gig, your headshot might get reproduced in a playbill or the like, in which case the producers might convert it to B&W. But the color version is what gets you the audition in the first place.

I'm too new to state an opinion, but you look a lot like Keira Knightley.

Hi Rebekah,
Funny, I've been getting some black and white requests from agents this year...maybe they are coming back! But in your case, you are really hiding what it is about you that will make you stand out! There aren't a ton a of redheads out there, so work with what you have going for you!

Definitely need color!

Color is crucial. And your bangs should not cover your eyes!