The Way My Eye Sees It...

I’m Terry Miller and I’d like to share a couple of thoughts with you.

When I ask my headshot subjects what they want in the way of a headshot, I often hear,
“Whatever the standard is.”

My reply is always the same: “If you ever figure out what the standard is, let me know.”

I started shooting models and actors with an open mind as to what the “perfect” headshot would look like. It wasn’t long before I found out that, other than a few basic rules, there is no single style on which everyone that will be viewing your headshot will agree.

I work for some talent agents and/or casting directors who have specific assignments for me and, though I might not agree with the style, I work hard to get just the shot they seek. Perhaps you are not represented yet but you have a specific headshot style in mind, I’m happy to deliver the shot you want. But if you and/or your agent have not yet decided just what it is you seek, consider the following point of view.

Ask yourself just what it is that you hope to accomplish when you provide your headshot to the casting director. Of course you want the casting director to be able to remember what you look like after the audition is finished and you are on your way. But what you really want is not so much to be simply remembered, but to distinguish yourself so that you remain uppermost in the casting director’s memory.

I offer for your consideration a style of headshot that, if not the only headshot in your portfolio, at least, in my humble opinion, ought to be included. I call them Headshots on the Edge. They are headshots that break the traditional mold. They, in every likely circumstance, will be the only one in the casting director’s stack that will be different enough that if she says to her assistant, “Get me that one headshot,” the assistant will know the one to which the casting director is referring without even asking.

Andrew
Standard	Edgy	Headshot on The Edge
Michelle
Standard	Edgy	Headshot on The Edge

I'll bet that most of the headshots in the casting director's stack will be of the "Standard" variety like those in the left column above. If yours was on the order of "Edgy" or even a "Headshot on the Edge," don't you agree that it would be more memorable?

I'll take whichever style of shot you desire. Perhaps you would like several shots. That would enable you to provide the appropriate photo for whichever role you are seeking. I would think that wise.

Do you dare to be different? If you do, I offer this word of caution: Some of those to whom you provide this style of headshot will love it; others will hate it. But no one will ever forget it.

Respectfully submitted for your consideration,

T