PHOTO CHALLENGE BETWEEN CELL PHONES AND DSLR LENSES

The Woodlands, TX - This story is an excerpt from the January 1, 2023, issue 16 released publication of the Quantum Storm .357 E-Magazine [QSE .357] which received a large amount of praise from subscribers and promotional advertisers. This article is released for blog material and resources outside of established subscribers. This article should only be used for informational purposes and taken as advice for capturing professional head-shots for preview in the independent film scene movement.

It seems that thanks to only a few individuals who have taken advantage of the heavy dreams and desires from the fast growing breed of "instant" professional thespian performers in the Independent film scene [or industry], who would do just about anything [or even pay big bucks] to separate themselves from the self made competition to "break into" that next big film, head-shot photographers have made big money pursuing actors to help them build some impressive portfolios over the course of the last fifteen years. But did the actors really have to find proficient photographers to accomplish their needs? And especially now, with the help of some of the best lenses being added to the production and manufacture of newer cell phone technologies, are  DSLR cameras truly needed to capture the best shots of local talent, who submit their image to casting directors and film producers in the local indie film circuit?

 ARE CELL PHONES WORTHY OF TAKING A GOOD HEAD-SHOT?

In this new generation of technologies, new actors may tend to use their own selfie as a head-shot for their acting resume. There's absolutely nothing wrong with choosing to do so, but its a fact that a lot of photos taken on any cell phone won't transfer well to the capabilities of the even the best printer. It can be due to the lack of a photos' pixelation and I am sure that any person you know who claims to be an "expert" on cell phone capabilities will tell you that what I just reported to you isn't 100% true; but it is. In this article, I won't go into the size or pixel generation of a photo, but I will cover the importance that the larger the file before compression, will present a far superior photo during printing; that is before one decides to alter the photos color, brightness, or sharpness before deciding to print the picture. 

Always remember that what might look cool or edgy on your cell phone screen may not transfer well to a printer, especially if a Casting Director requests that your actors resume submission be submitted with printed copies of your head-shot; which happens more often that one might think. Having clear details in your photo, presenting the best features, angles, and any real blemishes [or imperfections] on your skin could make the difference in your possible selection for a good project. Trying to hide some of these natural traits with photoshop is a definite no-no. The picture you present to a Casting Director is what will be expected to arrive when a a date is set for your first interview.

Over the years, I have learned that even using some of the best lighting and controlled atmosphere, still cannot guarantee the best shot or a quality that won't require a retake or a demand that better shots will be requested. Like I've said many times before, free is good, but it certainly isn't a quality that a spoiled film industry will conform to approving just because your different. So, if your photographer uses cell phones to conduct the business of just taking your head-shot, I recommend you pass on them or at least ask for proof of success before paying them for their services.

**The photo on the top left was taken with a top-of-the-line Droid cell phone.

WHAT TYPE OF DSLR PHOTOGRAPHER SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?

First of all, and probably the most important thing you should know is, there is no standard format for head-shots. What is important is just getting a strong, natural capture of your image is what is best to present to the Casting Director. Small details like capturing natural eye color, color of hair, and various facial balance is pretty important. Remember again, what is in your photo is what the Casting Director will want to see when you arrive for your first interview.

Every indie film scene has it's long list of both talented and amateur photographers that can give you what your looking for; most be it some much needed attention in your early acting career and a head-shot that will present you in a more professional light. Of course, the cost of getting a good shot will vary from pretty expensive, to sometime being way outside your comfort level. But having the best shot of your current self is well worth the cost. You might get lucky to find a good photographer who is also trying to build his own portfolio, be willing to take all of your photography needs for free, and maybe even a few more pics that are out of format, but that will give you depth in presenting your talents in modeling. You might find that some of these photos are more dramatic, colorful, and provide an insight into your deeper, marketable self image.

These photographers will usually use Canon [6D, 7D, 8D], Nikon, or Panasonic DSLR cameras, which are the standard for digital imaging. The cameras are set with larger lenses and high pixel capture rates that make photographs look crisp and provide a cutting edge look for your current actors head-shot. One thing that is guaranteed is that you will see a big difference in using a well trained photographer to keep your head-shots up to date. But if you choose to keep selfies to update your looks, well its all up to you.

**The photograph on the top right was taken with a Canon 8D.

WORKING WITH AN AGENT TO GET YOU THE RIGHT PHOTOGRAPHER

As stated before, there are no standard formats for head-shots. There's no indie film regulation, no requirement in the way the photo was taken, or that your head-shots require photoshop of any kind. All that is required is a current color photo [head-shot] which can be previewed by Casting Directors with a resume of your most recent works that make you qualify for any role that you are hoping to fill. 

I feel that it is important, that if your dropping your name down for a specific part in a film production, to at least be ready to include a solid portfolio of you looking the part, in case you are selected and wardrobe and makeup have to prepare their material attributes for preparing you for the role should you be selected. Keep in mind that if your selected to read for the role, it doesn't actually mean you got the part; so don't be to eager to post that "Booked it" claim on your Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn page.

If your a first time actor, trying to get into the mainstream of hiring an agent to help you boost your image in front of a camera, be aware that your decision to entrust your hopes into their operation will cost you money. Like any other business, your agent will always require you to get new head-shots by a local professional photographer they just happen to have ready to assist you...at some high cost too. Your agent won't hesitate to offer you access to the photographer at any turn, because they usually get a cut of the sales for their skills that you will require for any film project or model ad you might try to book. Will the work from this photographer actually win you the gig?...well, not really and not all the time.

Remember that agents have their favorite actors and models, who are often given first shots on any project, far before your recent work is submitted. Yes, having an agent may mean that you will be introduced to some dirty dealings, but always remember that agents always have a long lost of talent to dig through, just in case one actor fails to accept a job or if anyone is turned down. As a first time actor, there's a high probability that you will not be within the first twenty people on their list to call; all of whom have proven to be committed, faithful, on time, and willing to spend money when the need arises.

 **The photograph on the top left was taken with a Canon 8D.

IN HINDSIGHT...

In the course of over 14 years, I have gone out of my way to provided head-shot services for over 755 indie film actors and models within the state of Texas. It's been more of a hobby than a business, most of time I have gone out of my way to help actors/models that could not afford professional services in building portfolios. Many of those actors have since moved on from working on indie film projects, with a healthy percentage that have moved on to bigger and better film and modeling jobs, all of which have brought good success to building solid careers in their professional fields.

The best part of their adventure has been learning what to do, who to turn to when they need professional help in updating their portfolios, and what equipment is best for capturing their newest works. I like that these talented folks have also learned that photographers are a dime a dozen and that no two are alike; someone is always better or even brings something new in bringing in what's best in capturing some of the most brilliant format styles with proper lighting and studio arrangements.

**The photograph on the top right was taken with an iPhone 15 Pro Max.

If you have any doubt about the type of equipment that should be used for your new shots, just take the time to do some study on your own behalf. There are some good videos on YouTube.com and relatable searches on Google.com to assist you in making the best decision for you; especially if your tight on funds.

So be safe, stay smart and...Ride Easy!