Headshots?

Question:Can anyone here recommend a good website that give advice on taking headshots for an acting portfolio? I've heard that casting agents prefer B&Ws, but I've also heard they want color, so I'm a bit confused. Any advice from skilled photogs is helpful too!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: Can anyone here recommend a good website that give advice on taking headshots for an acting portfolio? I've heard that casting agents prefer B&Ws, but I've also heard they want color, so I'm a bit confused. Any advice from skilled photogs is helpful too!

It used to be strictly black-and-white. Internet submissions tend to transfer a little better in color, and digital photography has changed some of the rules.

There's really no reason you can't have a set of each, you could do some of each in one sitting.

If you are with an agent, they will tell you what they prefer.

I had black-and-white first, then got color ones more recently in LA, which seemed to get a good response.

If you go to a professional photographer who is experienced with headshots for actors, they will know what the agents and casting directors in the area prefer. As a start, I recommend a less expensive b&w headshot as once you have an agent, they may have a preference as well.

If you're just starting out, go with B&W. If you get an agent, s/he can recommend whether you should go for color.

Here's some tips:
http://www.uaf.edu/sda/headshots.html