I love photographing men.  They are much more simple than us women with our complicated hair, make-up and insecurities.  When doing head shots with men you can make them look stronger by using more contrasting shadows, harsher and busier environments, strong forward on stances even work well.  Have lots of options done.  Also think about interests you may have.  Recently I had one guy who is in the military so we played that up (not the one in the photos-he just has the look!).   The gent with 8 pack abs was going directly for certain shows currently running so that’s why the Roman costume.  It doesn’t hurt to try something in particular so that casting agents really see what they will get!   Here are some shots I’ve done just recently.  Lots of laughs to be sure and I didn’t include some of the outtakes but maybe one day in the future I will.

A few months ago I had the pleasure and fun to do Eddie Alfano’s head shots.  We were going for a particular look–he wanted CSI or that hard New York cop look.  So we did that and a bit more.  He looks menacing in some of these shots but don’t let that fool you, he’s really a funny and nice guy.  So how fabulous is that he has now booked CSI New York and a robber on Cougar Town!  I can’t wait to see them both and glad our work took him in the right direction.   Elton Bolden of Tilmar Talent knew what needed to be done and it was successful.

If you are getting into acting and starting your head shots it’s really important to have options and know what you want and what you are good at.

• Don’t let your photos be over touched up.
• A guy has to look like a guy and yes, we all have pores in our skin.
• Keep the focus on you.  Artistic photos are great but remember an agent or casting director will probably spend less than 3 seconds looking at your shots.  Make sure your eyes connect!
• Have options!  I can’t say this enough.  Age range, soft looks and hard looks, the more the better!

Congrats again Eddie, the DVR is ready!

I’m originally from Michigan but left almost 17 years ago now.  I went back last month to see friends and family.   I always appreciate seeing everyone when I go back but I can’t say I enjoy the state in the middle of winter!  I snapped a few shots while driving to the airport and counted the cars in the ditches-12 plus one ambulance.    Just a few days later I was driving Highway 5 to Los Angeles.  The difference was remarkable but both beautiful in their own way.  I was driving only once while taking these photos I swear!  You can figure out which is where!