A professional headshot is arguably the most important photo a model needs for casting and jobs. It is also the main shot in digital modeling that an aspiring model needs to submit to agencies. And, like acting headshots for casting directors, a model headshot is usually the first picture considered by a creative director. That's why it's important to have good headshots in a modeling portfolio to showcase your modeling abilities. Here are five tips for taking the best model headshot.

1. Define Your Main Modeling Types To Create Headshots For Them.

As an aspiring model, you're probably trying to figure out what type of model shoot you'd be best for. Or maybe you've already turned it off. For example, do you have a unique physical facial feature or hair type? You may have copious amounts of freckles or noticeably clear and even-toned skin. Maybe you have a very chiseled jawline. Perhaps your hair is particularly curly or noticeably flat. Maybe you fit perfectly as the layman or girl next door. Many types of models are needed. You will want to explore such specializations and focus on them in your professional headshots. Capturing these unique features in headshots will help a creative director tailor you to the look they want.

2. Consider Your Facial Expressions And Feelings In Your Appearance.

Like acting, different modeling campaigns for commercials can also demand different character types. So in your headshots, you should modify your facial expressions to have options. Make sure they match the uniqueness a creative director might be after. For example, let's say you're a former athlete and want to pursue athletic-style modeling opportunities. You probably don't want to cake the makeup on for that headshot look. Most importantly, your facial expressions should engage with the audience. You don't want to come across as if you're staring into a void. While your headshots reflect your personality, a balanced one will also represent the vibe you are trying to represent. So, ask yourself, what would a headshot of a good athlete feel like? If you're more about flawless beauty, practice what the looks like so you can capture it in one headshot. If you're not clear on how these look, find examples online. Don't be afraid to practice them in the mirror. Get second and third opinions to see if you are accurate in their representations.

3. Keep The Makeup Basic And Then Go Out.

You want to have a headshot with practically no makeup on. This is essential because sometimes it is an original shot that is specifically sought after by modeling agencies. Make sure you have some headshots that show off your natural look. This can often include profile-sided headshots, not just straight shots. But even once you have these basic shots, consider going all out. If you want to be considered for beauty shoots for makeup ads, put it there. Get a beauty shot where your makeup is completely on. Also get the photo retouched properly. That's how you create shots just like you would in an actual advertising campaign. Give them the natural look they need to consider you, but also create shots that mimic the modeling jobs you're fond of.

4. Factor In Your Wardrobe.

It can be easy not to consider the top you'll be wearing for headshots, but it's also an important element. For example, if you're going for a beauty look, you might consider rolling your shoulders. In most cases, less will be more. Therefore, wearing a turtleneck sweater is more likely to ask the question "what are you hiding on your neck" than anything else. Keep things simple, like avoiding logos and busy patterns, but also consider vibrant colors over dull colors. A vibrant colored shirt to accent a certain eye color will be more appealing than a plain white or black shirt. The same goes for colour-coordinating with your hair and skin colour. You can also color-coordinate with the background.

5. Go For Quality Over Quantity.

Modeling portfolios often feature many more shots in them than actor profiles. This is due to a belief in modeling that versatility is important. In acting it is often thought that too many shots on character types that might be ideal for an actor can lead to confusion. Despite this difference, it is more important to start with quality than quantity. Get professional shots made by a photographer who uses commercial-grade equipment. Also, ask if they use studios or have natural light outside near them. This will affect the types of shots the photographer can capture. In general, the more professional your shots, the more professional you are.

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