Are outdoor actors headshots a good idea?
An actor’s headshot is their calling card. This one photo is expected to show an agent or casting director a glimpse of what they can expect when you walk into the room, and what you might be capable of given an opportunity. It’s a lot to expect of a single frame, so it’s no wonder that actors angst over their headshots.
When it comes to creating a compelling acting headshot there’s some debate about whether it’s always better to shoot in the safety of a studio. After all, outdoor locations can add a unique, eye-catching dimension.
Shooting outdoors has its challenges, though. So before you think about incorporating outdoor headshots into your acting profile or portfolio, read this and decide if on location portraits are right for you.
Can you shoot a headshot outside?
In short, of course you can! But, as with any type of photography, the key to great portraits is great light. Not all outdoor light is created equal and it’s really important that your photographer can control and shape that light in a way that is flattering for you.
It might seem counterintuitive, but your best outdoor shots will come on an overcast day when the clouds act like a giant diffuser to soften the sun’s rays, avoiding deep shadows and unforgiving highlights on your face.
When you’re outside you also have to take the weather into account. While a light breeze can add lovely movement to your hair, humidity, high winds, extreme heat or rain can wreak havoc on freshly quaffed locks. Editing out stray hairs is a time intensive process and may end up costing you more for the post processing of your images.
So while you can shoot outdoors, your ability to shoot in any light and weather is more limited and you should take that into account.
What’s the best time for outdoor headshots?
The best time of day for outdoor portraiture is what’s known as golden hour, which is the last 60-90 minutes before sunset. Alternatively the first 60-90 minutes after sunrise also works well.
This is because at these “bookends” of the day the light is warm, the shadows are long and soft (and therefore more flattering) and you avoid very bright highlights. The soft light at these times of day also gives you the freedom to move around outdoors without having to stick to shaded areas.
When shooting outdoors in the middle of the day photographers will usually look for what’s called “open shade”. This is a location where you can position your subject just inside the shade of something (like a tree, a bridge or awning) whilst still allowing the person to face out into unimpeded daylight.
What are the pros of outdoor headshots?
Natural light is flattering for everyone - provided it can be controlled. Skin highlights in natural light are creamy, fresh and smooth. Catchlights in the eyes are natural and sparkly.
You have the opportunity to create a completely unique background that adds atmosphere to the image and stands out when everyone else is using plain studio backdrops.
Your environment can serve to reinforce or hint at aspects of your personality.
Outdoor shots are an easy way to add variety to your portfolio.
Outdoor shooting can require less equipment (i.e. no backdrops or indoor lights).
What are the downsides of outdoor headshots
As previously mentioned, exposure to the elements (bright un-diffused sunlight, rain, wind, humidity) is the biggest hurdle with outdoor shooting. These elements are hard to control and can ruin great hair and make up very quickly.
Onlookers are also something you have to contend with if you’re shooting outdoors in public spaces. While you might eventually be hoping for fame, having lots of people walk past you as you shoot your headshots might be daunting at this stage.
Not all outdoor spaces are free to use. Some locations require permits to shoot there.
Lack of changing rooms. When you shoot outdoors you may find there are no readily accessible changing facilities - which might see you changing wardrobe in your car.
How do you take a great actors headshot outdoors?
If you’ve decided that you do want to go ahead and add the variety of a unique outdoor location, here are a few tips for getting a great result:
Hire a professional photographer. Smart phones have great cameras these days., but your phone can’t tell you whether you’re in good light or whether the background is competing for attention. A professional photographer who specialises in headshots or branding will be able to make sure you are in the most flattering light and environment.
Choose the right time of day, and/or opt for a location with “open shade” to stand in. Both inner city locations and parks offer open shade. Beaches provide less shade.
Choose wardrobe suited to the environment.
Pick backgrounds that are simple but attractive. You don’t want a tonne of fiddly detail behind you attracting attention. Make sure you photographer is shooting with a wide enough aperture to blur the background so that it doesn’t draw the viewer away from your face.
Whether you decide to shoot your actor headshots indoors or outside (or both!) ensure that you take the time to find a great photographer that puts you at ease and helps you bring out your best. That handful of images has to big role to play in getting you the jobs you want!
