I don’t expect you to be a Model…

You’re an Actor, right? You most likely studied in some kind of acting program, you’re in a scene study/improv class, and you’ve done countless auditions. You’ve been acting for a long time, that’s what you’re comfortable doing…

Yes, you’ve taken pictures, but models take pictures EVERY DAY, that’s what they do… We don’t expect NBA players to play Major League Baseball… (Michael Jordan couldn’t do it, am I right?) Why do we expect actors to be models? Why do so many photographers treat the headshot experience like a modeling shoot? The two skillsets are similar, but definitely not the same.

I’m an actor too! I know from firsthand experience, staring into the lens can be nerve-racking, and let’s be honest, it’s kinda weird… When we work in TV/Film our goal is to avoid the lens, now you’re telling me to look into the lens? Huh??? -- Don’t worry, I can help with that. -- We need to re-frame how we approach this process. My goal is to be “actor focused” during my shoots! That may seem obvious, but we’ve all worked with photographers who treat us like props. They speak to us like we’re models, they expect us to know what we’re doing in this unusual and challenging environment.

You are my primary focus, pun intended. My approach considers the actor every step of the way. My goal is to relax you, and allow you to take honest photos that represent you as an actor. My goal is to cover your casting range. We all think we can do anything, and given the chance we probably can, but Headshots need to cover your casting range. They help casting directors/agents/managers understand where you fit in the world they’re creating.

Let’s take our time!

I’m in no rush, if we shoot together, you’ll hear me say “Let’s take a break” more than you’ve ever heard during a headshot session. I find short bursts are most effective, just like when you work in TV/Film, the time between action and cut is usually brief, but extremely productive. I have a variety of ways I’ll share with you to stay energized, focused, and excited during your shoot; great shots happen when actors are genuinley engaged with the process.

Kevin Anderson - Photographer - HeadshotsbyKevin

Burbank, CA 91505