Stop Making These 3 Headshot Mistakes - Parents of Child Actors

Headshots are an actor's key into Hollywood casting offices. With a great headshot, an actor is more likely to get the attention of agents, managers and casting directors!

We are going to talk about 3 headshot mistakes that Parents tend to make when they are just starting out with their child in this industry.

Hello! My name is Diana Ivelis , I am the momager to three children actively working in the entertainment industry as well as a former youth Hollywood talent agent. Only one year after moving to Los Angeles from Philadelphia, my son landed a series regular role on the hit CBS show Bob Hearts Abishola.

In this article I am going to be covering some of the top mistakes parents of child actors make when getting their first set of headshots. In addition to these, there is always more we can learn, and that is why I created a course HERE that covers all of my headshot secrets!

1. Stop Over Paying For Headshots

Depending on where you are located prices might vary, but it is still important to keep in mind how much pricing is in the major film markets. If this is the price range in places like New York/LA, and you live outside of those areas, keep these price ranges in mind to protect yourself from possible scammers.

Cheap ($25-$100): Anyone who is charging this much for headshots is likely just starting out or does not specialize in headshot photography.

Budget ($100-$250): Do your research, this photographer may know how to shoot headshots and can get some decent images but you still want to make sure its a good fit. Check out their social media and web pages to see if they have experience working with children.

Good ($250-$800): These are most likely established, professional headshot photographers who only do this for a living and have built up a name for themselves over the years. Always do your research. If they have a great portfolio and reviews, they most likely know what they are doing and should get you excellent shots of your child.

Keep in mind how many wardrobe changes and edits your get with your package. If someone is charging on the higher end of this range for only one or two edits, it might not be the best investment for you. Keep in mind that in the beginning, your child should have at least one theatrical and one commercial headshot.

Expensive ($800-$1400): These are usually the big-name photographers. The headshots you get from these photographers may be great, but what you will be paying for is their reputation. If you are working with a smaller budget, you can most like get what you need for your child from the $250 to $800 range.

Overpriced ($1400+): This price range is a red flag. At that level, you're either just paying to work with a renowned photographer or you're being lied to. Again, do your research!

2. Stop Hiring Photographers Who Don't Specialize In Headshots

This might seem like a small detail, but it is actually really important. Many photographers don't specialize in headshots specifically. A lot of people choose to work with a friend who has a nice camera, or go to the mall to get nice photos taken, but that is not the same as working with someone who truly specializes in ACTOR headshots. Trust me, this makes a huge difference because headshot photography is a science, and we want to make sure we are working with people who can capture a photo that is industry standard.

Also, you want to work with someone who has a good amount of experience working with children. Many headshot photographers often shoot young adult or adult actors, and rarely have sessions with young children. Even the most outgoing kids can have difficulty understanding what is needed/not needed for headshots. But by working with someone who knows how to make children feel at ease and comfortable, you can ensure you get the most captivating shot of your child!

3. Stop Spending Money On Headshots Every Year

I tell my clients, if your child is younger than 6 years old, you probably don't need to pay for professional headshots yet. Before the age of 6, children are rapidly growing and changing. Parents who invest in expensive headshots before the age of 6 find themselves shelling out more money soon after because their child has a major change in their features. Save your money. Take photos with a less expensive photographer or take them yourself at home. Save up the money to hire a great headshot photographer when your child is a little older and professional headshots are required. I usually tell parents that a great time to get the first set done is after their child has lost and regrown all four of their central incisor teeth. Some children lose theirs late so 7 years old is the furthest out you should wait. If your child has an agent or manager, you should ask them what their requirements are.

Once your child is over the age of 6, and they have a great set of headshots, you only need to set up a new headshot session if your child has a dramatic change in their look. Maybe they got a full out hair cut, or got braces installed? Did they have a growth spurt and look significantly older? All of these changes can be a reason to get new headshots.

If you enjoyed these headshot tips, then you would really enjoy my e-course breaking down the "Types of Headshots", "How to Style Your Child for Headshots", "How to Choose the Right Headshot Photographer" etc.

Click HERE to watch Actors Headshots | Do's and Don'ts in 2021, or grab a copy of my book Raising A Child Star, that will give you a clear view of how to navigate The Entertainment Industry as a whole!

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Diana Ivelis

The Momagerpreneur