Singers - Comedians - Actors Headshots and Portraits FAQ
About David
Who are you?
check my bio here. I'm a professionnal actors headshots photographer based in Montreal & Toronto.
What is your philosophy? Why shoot actors?
My philosophy is to portray you as natural, confident, reliable, powerful and genuine. I will make sure you are as comfortable as possible at all times during the session. I love shooting actors because I’m amazed at the ability of being in the moment and truthful to themselves under imaginary circumstances.
Why should I choose you?
You should choose me if my portfolio inspires you and if you share the same philosophy. You are welcomed to call me if you have questions and if you’d like to hear more about me to see that it’s clear as a bell for you that it makes sense to book me.
Where is your studio?
My portrait studio is located here. It’s very close to shooting locations such as the botanical garden, the Olympic stadium, Maisonneuve Park. It’s possible to shoot in any of those locations without a premium.
How often are you in NYC, LA or Toronto?I travel to these locations often. If you need my services and are not sure where I’m currently at, please contact me and we will schedule a shoot as soon as possible.
Basics
What’s a good actors headshot?
It’s a actors headshot that gets you auditions. It portrays you as confident, reliable, committed and motivated. It looks as the best version of you. It should also be in accordance to the types of auditions you go to.
Before the shoot, email me examples of headshots that you like.
Do I need a theatrical and/or a commercial headshot? What’s the difference?
It all depends on the intended use of your actors headshots. If you’re a stand up comedian or looking to book commercials, then a commercial headshot is best suited for you. If you’re auditioning for TV series, movies or theatre, then you should go for a theatrical headshot.
A key ingredient for success in an actor headshot is knowing how to market yourself. We will work together to make sure we get the right result for YOU!
How Many pictures do I need?
2 pictures is a good starting base.
- Either two theatrical/commercial headshots with different outfits and attitude OR
- one commercial and one theatrical headshot RECOMMENDED
How much does it cost?
Please contact me for prices.
How do I book you?
A minimum deposit of 50$ is required to book a session (via paypal or directly by depositing the amount at my studio). People having paid in full BEFORE the session will receive an additional edited photo for free.
How do I pay you?
Full payment is expected at the end of the session. Payment by cheque is accepted and includes sales taxes. A receipt will be handed to you at payment. There is a 15% rebate for people paying cash.
Do you do headshots marathons?
Yes, I do 2-3 per year. It’s a day spent in a park/shooting location where I photograph between 8-16 actors during the day, 45min maximum per student, by groups of 2 students. The shoot is free which means there is no sitting fee. This works really well if your whole class is looking for quality headshots on a budget.
Before the shoot
Do I eat before the shoot?
Yes please do! Eat a normal meal before the shoot.
What else?
Have plenty of sleep the night before to avoid puffy eyes! Prepare for a headshot session the same way you’d prepare for an audition and prepare yourself to have fun.
Should I shave before?
This is a trick question. If you’re going to auditions shaved, then be shaved. If you prefer to have a 2 day old beard or want to look a bit older, then don’t, just trim. Please DO shave more than 3 hours before the shoot and with a good blade.
What should I wear?
a SOLID colour (no patterns) top that is fitted with a V collar or clear neckline to direct focus on the face. Pick colours that complement your skin tones and eyes. Grey, black, beige and neutral colors work really well. It’s IMPORTANT for the clothes and shirts to be ironed.
I have a pimple that's huge! What do I do?
Relax and breathe. It's removed in a heartbeat in photoshop.
How many outfits should I bring?
Bring as many as you want, I'll help you pick the best ones. You may change outfits 2-3 times per session.
Do you have a changing room?
Yes! I do have a basic makeup case and other accessories here in case of emergency.
Do I need makeup? What about hair?
Apply some skin moisturizer, a little foundation (a few hours before the shoot, use only products you know, you want to avoid bad skin reactions) and maybe some mascara although it’s merely optional. Keep the same habits and use what usually works for you.
Please take care of your hair so it’s not messy and bring a brush to correct it. This is especially true for long hair.
Do you use makeup artists/hair stylists?
Yes. Two options are possible:
- they are present during the shoot, or
- you meet them at their studio before the shoot.
The shoot
What is best for me? Natural light or Studio light?Check my portfolio and look for shots that you like. It’s possible to shoot natural light AND studio light at the studio.
I’m not good at posing; can you help me with that?
Yes, I'll make sure you show your best angles and I’ll make sure to pose you so you’re comfortable. Good body language is key for successful headshots. What's really important is being relaxed, having fun and be comfortable letting go.
Music relaxes me! Can I bring my music to your studio?
Of course!
Can I see the pictures during the session?
Yes, and please be comfortable asking and making comments, the purpose of the session is to make YOU look at your best and your comments will always be welcomed and appreciated.
How many photos do you take?
Some photographers like to snap bursts of shots, I don’t. I prefer to wait for you to get into the right mood or state and it works well. Usually, I take between 60-300 photos per session.
After the shoot
How quickly can I see the pictures online? How big are the pictures?
The proofs (pictures with watermark) will be online at davidgiralphoto.com within 6-12h of the shoot. The page is private and password protected and you may share it for review. It’s also possible to download pictures to show them for review. Proofs are delivered as 800x530 image size watermarked.
Who should review my photos? Can it be done at your studio?
I would suggest having the pictures reviewed by professionals from the industry: teachers, producers, casting directors. Review can also be performed at the studio just after shoot .
How long does it take for the photos to be edited?
Photos are delivered within 48-72h. If you need a rush order, let me know.
What does “fully edited headshot” means?
It involves
- correcting skin tones and color variations
- removing blemishes, pimples, stray hair
- adding sparkles in the eyes,
- attenuating the wrinkles
- optimizing for prints and web.
You also get the headshot optimized for web usage such as IMDB, facebook, twitter and other sites.
Can you add my name on the picture so it’s ready to be used for auditions? What are the options?
Yes! You may choose the cropping, the font, the colour of the background and the orientation of the text. A QR code may be added too.
Is coffee or tea included?
If the shoot is at my studio, then yes!