Actor's Headshot FAQs

How long is my photo session?
We (you and I) drive the speed of the shoot.  I like to work at a pace that is comfortable for both of us.  Setting a time limit can put you under stress and make you feel rushed.  There is no set time limit to my headshot sessions.  In general a session will run 3-4 hours depending on whether you have a hair and make-up person and the number of looks and outfit changes.  The “basic” shoot will run an hour or so plus hair and make-up if you choose it.  In both cases we shoot until we are both satisfied that you have an abundance of choices and we both agree we are finished.

Do you shoot black and white or color?
With the shift to digital printing, color printing has become the industry standard for headshots. You can risk looking out of date using black & white headshots, and color headshots give casting directors more immediate information about you. All of the shots we shoot are in color but can easily be converted to black and white.

What type of lighting do you use?
The studio’s large windows give us an abundance of natural light, which has the ability to reveal your natural self. I compliment the natural light with studio lighting to consistently give you the natural and “real” feel that casting directors and agents want.  I customize your shoot according to your needs and tastes in order to give you a variety of moods that will really work for you in all the roles you seek out and in all your self-promotions.

How many looks will you shoot?
In the full actor’s shoot, I shoot 3-4 looks and a range of moods designed to have you ready with a powerful shot for auditions for every type of project.  It is very important to be able to target your headshot to the description of the characters that you will be auditioning for.  There is a nice confidence that comes from knowing that you will be prepared for whatever audition comes your way.

Do you do your headshot shoots outdoors or on location?
I shoot headshots basically indoors because I have gorgeous natural light in my 27th floor space.  I have learned to augment the natural light on days when it is darker so that it keeps a natural look.  Light is better controlled in a studio setting.  That said, I do shoot on location from time to time, if you prefer, at a slightly higher charge.

Do you shoot 3/4 shots?
Yes, I do.  Though this style is not nearly as popular as it once was. While they have the advantage of sometimes giving a fuller look at you and give room to reveal more body language, the disadvantage is that your head appears quite small and they cannot be substituted for a more true headshot.

Do you shoot horizontals?
Horizontals are very currently very popular in the industry. They have a cinematic feel.  This is the way you look on a movie screen.

Do you shoot model and promo shots?
Yes, I do. Please call to discuss what you're interested in, and I will tailor a shoot for you.

Visit the RATES section for more details on shoots.
Visit the BUZZ section to hear what people are saying about my work and the shoot experience.

See FAQs for general information on the studio and shoots.

Contact me at 212.533.0353.   I check my messages often, so go ahead and leave a message.  You can also email me at karol@karolduclos.com to discuss more details.