3 Great Kids Headshot Looks

Pretty In Pink

For those who’ve talked with us about our clothing preferences for kids headshots, the fact we’re headlining this article with a look that’s decidedly pink might come as a surprise. Never fear: we’ve not suddenly become purveyors of all portraits pink. It’s usually too bright, too loud and too overwhelming for most complexions. “Pink as accent color;” that’s our mantra.

But sometimes pink is the perfect color, as you can see from this marvelous headshot we did last week for beautiful Miss Chloe. Why does it work? Because pink enhances her beautiful warm skin tone. Add a very subtle bit of makeup, an absolutely trending hairstyle (both by our bestie, Karina Talaro) and take away any background distractions and you have a great kids headshot. 

(For those who are wondering: we don’t typically include hands in headshots, either, but sometimes you just go with the flow.)

Classic Denim

We’re first to say a denim jacket in a kids headshot can go one of two ways: it can look completely cliched or it can look clean and classic.

In this image of lovely Miss Greta, denim over a T-shirt works perfectly. It’s a wonderfully subtle canvas that doesn’t distract us from Greta’s bright shining eyes and slightly mischievous smile. 

Karina’s less-is-more approach to hair and makeup frames her eyes smashingly and gives us a perfect snapshot of who the casting director will be booking for that new role (which is the whole point right?)

Always Earth Tones

If pink’s not your style and denim is just a little too classic, you can’t go wrong with earth tones. 

The color palette we call earth tones is so broad you’ll always find a color that compliments your complexion, from a light azure (which works nicely with lighter skin tones) to evergreen (perfect for darker complexions) to this great combination of olive and maroon on Mr. Jimmy. It’s the perfect compliment to his blue eyes and strawberry blonde hair.

When All Else Fails

Still not sure what’s right for your kid? When they put on an outfit and stand in front of you, do you think: “Wow, that color looks great with her complexion” or “That shirt really makes his eyes pop?” If you do, then you’ve found your kid’s perfect headshot look.

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Michael Verity is a Portland-based photographer specializing in professional headshots, modeling portfolios and fashion editorial photography. The husband of an acting coach and father of two young adult actors, he’s been photographing successful actors, creatives and business professionals for more than a decade.

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Top Photo: Chloe Lee (Instagram)
Middle Photo: Greta Van Eck
Bottom Photo: Jimmy Roberts
Hair and Makeup for Chloe and Greta: Karina Talaro (Instagram)

10 Tips For Great Professional Headshots

Whether you’re an actor trying to book a role, a business person elevating your profile or a student seeking college admission, a world-class headshot is essential to your success. Here are 10 tips you can follow to insure you get a great headshot for your business, professional or acting needs.

Hire A Professional

Hire a trained professional who takes headshots for a living not a friend who happens to have a camera and ‘knows a little about photography.’ More simply stated: you wouldn’t ask your dentist to fix your car so don’t ask your barista to do your headshots.

Look At Lots of Pictures

Every good photographer has an online portfolio for you to review. Look at a lot of pictures from a lot of photographers and pay attention to how you feel. When you see pictures that move you, you’ve probably found your perfect photographer.

Talk On The Phone

Talking to your potential photographer on the phone will tell you a lot about the person you’ll be working with. Is the photographer happy to talk with you and answer your questions? Does he understand your business? Is he willing to give you guidance on how to get the best pictures? A short phone call will tell you a lot.

Be Open To Spending Some Money

Mind your budget but don’t cheat yourself. Remember you’re not only investing your money, you’re also investing your time and energy and that’s valuable, too. Get the best you can afford because you’re worth it.

Map Your Location and Plan Ahead

If you’re running late you’ll be stressed and it will show in your pictures. So map and plan.

Prepare Your Hair, Makeup and Wardrobe

If you’re doing your own styling, communicate your plans to your photographer. Even better: do your hair and makeup and wardrobe and send some  snaps so he can see your plan and offer feedback. Communication is the key.

Drink Water, Get Sleep

You need to look fresh and rested for the best results. Treat yourself like a star that you are and get plenty of rest the night before your session.

Breathe

Remember why you’re getting pictures done: to capture an authentic image of your true self that introduces you to casting directors (or potential business partners) and prompts them to think: “I’d like to meet this person.” This isn’t surgery; it’s photography. Breathe, relax and enjoy.

Communicate Where You’re At

If you’re feeling nervous, tell your photographer. You’re a team so keep the lines of communication open.

Trust The Process and Take Direction

If you’ve followed these tips, you should walk in the door trusting your photographer has a working process that will deliver great photos. Trust the process and take direction. Oh, yeah: and have fun.

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This article is based on our three-part series: How To Rock Your Headshots. You can find the full articles below:

• Part One: How To Find The Right Photographer

• Part Two: How To Prepare For Your Headshot Session

• Part Three: What To Do At The Shoot

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Michael Verity is a Portland-based photographer specializing in acting and business headshots, modeling portfolios and fashion editorial photography. The husband of an acting coach and father of two young adult actors, he’s been photographing successful actors, creatives and business professionals for more than a decade.