Backstagemom got a chance to visit with photographer and mother of two successful child actors, Robin Lorraine. She shares her insight on what agents and managers look for in a headshot and gives us tips on how to get the most out of your child’s photo session.
Backstagemom: How did you get your start in photography?
Robin Lorraine: Once my son was born I went crazy taking pictures of him. Then his sister was born and he finally got a break! After seeing some of my work, friends began asking to hire me. Shortly after, things snowballed. About the same time my son started acting, so he became my first headshot client.
BSM: What do you enjoy the most about working with kids?
RL: I love their natural beauty, their playfulness and that they want to have fun–they don’t get too serious about things.
BSM: How do you put the child at ease in order to bring out their personality?
RL: I’m interested in them and I give them freedom to be themselves. I never limit the time and try to keep it playful. Often I let them do whatever they want for the camera & many times that’s when we get their best stuff.
BSM: What do you recommend parents bring with them to the photo shoot?
RL: Bring a large selection of wardrobe, hair products and chapstick/lipgloss. We don’t use props, but you can create character looks with wardrobe choices that slightly hint at that type. For example a 13 year old boy may be photographed as a skater dude, a geeky type, an all-american boy next door or as the bully or tough kid. Of course we are mostly going to get that in his expressions, but the wardrobe can very slightly suggest this. With the ease of posting photos online, agents and managers are using additional looks and personality shots in addition to the main headshot, so having a good assortment of wardrobe is important.
BSM: What can a parent do at home to prepare the child or teen for the photo shoot?
RL: One important thing is not to give them direction on how to smile and pose. You can suggest they practice different faces & emotions in front of the mirror, just don’t tell them “No, not that smile”. You want them to be relaxed at the shoot and for it to be a fun experience. If they are confident and having fun, it will show in their eyes–which is the most important element of the headshot and what a casting director will spot. If they are concentrating on smiling a certain way, they won’t look natural. Just having them practice expressions as if they were in front of the camera can be extremely helpful because they’ll be working their imagination, gaining confidence and improving skills which you can see in an experienced actor. If your learning to play the violinyou practice even when not at class–the same is true for actors. Being in front of the camera (still or moving) and working the camera will improve with practice. It’s important that you don’t mind getting your picture taken if you are an actor– not only will you often need headshots but once successful you’ll be shooting on the red carpet and a host of other publicity shots.
BSM: What’s your feeling on hair and makeup for kids?
RL: In general agents and managers are saying “No make-up for kids”. There are little tricks you can do to highlight the eyes, lips and cheeks if needed and a little gloss or tinted ChapStick is fine. The trend right now in Hollywood is “very natural, real looks”. As for teens, I like to see them first without make-up and then as we go along we may apply light, natural looking make-up. On young girls heavy make-up can make them look older and in Hollywoodit’s an advantage if you can play younger then your age. As for hair, I like to see different styles throughout the shoot, braids, gel spiked, etc. As long as you use hair clips and such that don’t attract attention–no frill, bows and pageant looks. Keep in mind the number one headshot rule is the headshot should “look like you on a good day” (not overly made up or glamorized).
BSM: Should pictures be different for actors, singers, and dancers?
RL: Basically actors need a commercial headshot–great smile, warmth & friendliness. and a theatrical headshot–more serious and showing confidence or strong emotion. As for dancers, an important element is to show off the neck, posture and body type. Dancers usually have 3 separate images printed on one page as opposed to a single headshot. With musicians often they are portrayed with their instrument, but it could be just a portion of the instrument to get the message across. Also, a particular style of music is usually shown by their wardrobe for example rap, country etc.
BSM: You are an industry pro. Any advice for parents getting their kids started in this business?
RL: Teach your kids to persevere and stay positive. I often hear parents question “How do you deal with the rejection?” It really isn’t rejection unless you look at it that way. The glass half empty, half full scenario. Instead you can see it as a positive note that you got the audition and then keep at it. Your child may have to go through many, many auditions before landing a part, but don’t get discouraged about any of that. Just keep going, improve your craft with training or theater, continue learning from casting seminars & resources like BSM, find out what is needed from the agent or manager and keep a willing. professional attitude. Oh and definitely get great headshots!
For more info visit www.robinlorraine.com
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