Top 10 Tips for Essential Headshot Sessions

Preparing for Your Headshot at Our Littlehampton Studio

Why a Professional Headshot is Essential for Actors and Models

A professional headshot is one of the most important tools for any model or actor. Whether you're preparing for a casting call or aiming for that dream role, a high-quality headshot can open doors.

At our Littlehampton studio in West Sussex, we specialise in creating powerful, creative headshots that leave a lasting impression. Your headshot is often the first image seen by casting directors, producers, or modelling agencies, so it needs to be memorable, authentic, and professionally crafted.

Now, attending your first headshot shoot can feel pretty daunting at first - but don’t worry we’ve created our unique ‘Top 10 Tips For Essential Headshot Sessions’ to help you feel relaxed and comfortable when capturing your images. 

Start Fresh: The Importance of Rest Before Your Photoshoot

Get plenty of rest and sleep as early as possible before your photoshoot. It’s understandable that you’ll feel nervous and anxious about the day ahead but the last thing you want is to turn up feeling exhausted and tired. You’ll want to feel glowing and refreshed so make sure you give yourself enough time beforehand to do so. Why not pamper yourself and have a lovely hot relaxing bubble bath with some essential oils the night beforehand too; it’s surprising how much this can help when it comes to getting a good night's sleep! Not only that, but having a hearty breakfast can also help to settle the stomach. It doesn’t have to be a lot, just enough to help combat the nerves whilst also seeing you through the day.

Hydrate for a Healthy, Photo-Ready Glow

Make sure you drink plenty of water. Not only will this help to rehydrate you but it’ll also help to make your skin look rejuvenated and refreshed ready for your photos. 

Prep Your Skin with Moisture in Mind

If you suffer from tired and dry skin, make sure that you start moisturising at least 3 days before your photoshoot. Not only will this help your complexion, but it’ll also help to prevent you from having any dry or flakey looking skin on the day. 

Plan Your Makeup Look in Advance

Decide on what style of makeup you want for the photoshoot at least 2/3 days beforehand. This will help you to create the style that you’re after whilst also helping to prevent a mad rush last minute. If a basic shot is required then you might be willing to capture it with no make up on. A lot of casting agencies like to see the more natural look. However, if you’re looking to get into the entertainment industry or make up adverts for example, then you might want to go for a more glamorous look. Being prepared is key! 

Pack Your Essentials the Day Before

Make sure the day before the photoshoot, your bag is packed with all of your vital essentials for the day -

• Make up

• Make up remover wipes

• Hair brush/comb

• Hair spray

• A change of clothes if doing different styles

• Any jewellery you might like to wear

• A bottle of water

• Some snacks perhaps

Choose Looks That Reflect Your Personal Brand

Plan your outfits in advance. We all know how stressful it can be sometimes to find the perfect outfit for a special occasion so being organised in advance will certainly help. Also, try to think about what styles you’re trying to create in your images and dress accordingly; whether that’s a simple look of jeans and a white top, neutral colours perhaps or even a more sophisticated look. Once you’ve chosen your outfits, be sure to pack them into your bag ready for the day ahead. 

Collaborate With Your Photographer to Capture the Right Look

When it comes to headshots, you might want to show some different styles. Think about the different angles you’d like to capture. Will you be having your hair up or down? Plan and discuss with your photographer what type of images you want to capture on the day. The more you discuss what you’d like to achieve with your photographer the better the images will be.

Show Both Sides - Your Features Tell Your Story

Be sure to include the left and right side of your face. Everyone is different and no two sides are ever same but that’s also what makes us all so unique! You might have a slight scar on one side of your face which you feel self conscious about; don’t be afraid to show it off. Scars can add character and depth to your facial structure and could potentially be exactly what someone is looking for. You could have some freckles or moles that you don’t necessarily feel confident about too. Again, that could be the unique feature that they’ve been looking for so remember to feel confident in yourself and your beauty. Don’t be afraid to practice your poses in a mirror the day before. It’s great to visualise what you’re trying to get across on your photos and being able to see what works and what might need adapting.  

Own Your Best Angles and Show the Real You

Don’t be afraid to show off your best features too, so whether that’s your gorgeous smile, your longing stare into the distance or even a seductive yet powerful pose - work it! Showcase your identity in the best possible way and make yourself shine to others. It might feel nerve wracking at first but it’s surprising how quickly it can help boost your self esteem. 

Look Your Best, Stay Professional, and Have Fun

Lastly, professionals want to see you as a person but they also want to know that this is what you want to do. It’s important that you look your best whilst also coming across professional and approachable. Be proud of who you are and what you want to achieve. And finally, remember to relax, have fun and enjoy this unique opportunity. It could potentially change your life!

Feeling Nervous? We’ve Got You Covered.

It’s completely natural to feel a little nervous before your first headshot photography session — especially if you’re new to the industry. That’s why we’ve put together our Top 10 Tips for Essential Headshot Sessions to help you feel confident, relaxed, and camera-ready.

Whether you're visiting us at our Littlehampton photography studio or preparing elsewhere, these expert tips will ensure you’re set for success. If you would like to book a session either enquiry via our Contact page or email us at info@darrengrittonphotography.com