Child Actor and Young Model Head Shot Portfolio

“As a Syracuse photographer specializing in professional headshots for young actors and models, I know how important first impressions are in the entertainment world.”

Young model headshot in Syracuse NY studio by John Carnessali.

Child Model Head Shot Head Shot Portfolio

young child model posing in Syracuse NY

The online world today is without a doubt a first impression one. As the saying goes “You only get one chance to make a good first impression”. Acting and modeling agencies, clients, competitions, etc.. will see a head shot, acting or modeling photos before they ever speak to your child.

I am an professional photographer with 15+ years experience that got my start in the fashion and modeling industry when I lived in L.A. and assisted photographer Ron Jaffe who photographed A-list celebrities.

Over the 15 years I have honed the balance and craft of photographing children in their authentic and natural state, while also coaching and guiding my them to produce both natural and flattering body and facial expressions during their session.

Young boy model headshot in downtown syracuse ny
Young girl in a pink dress among blooming trees.

However when it comes to child actor and young model head shot portfolio sessions, allowing the child to express their natural energy, curiosity and enthusiasm is essential.

It’s not just capturing but creating! During our session, I will suggest and teach your child to bring out the subtleties of the human face that attract us to certain people and images. However, the most important thing is for the children to have fun and if they are, they WILL be adorable.

teenage model and actor headshot photography in Syracuse

What to Bring

Bring clothes that are comfortable for your child.  If something is scratchy on your young child’s skin, it just won’t work. I often suggest buying a new outfit, dress, shirt, jacket, etc.. but let them try it on before bringing. If they are old enough, make sure they like the garment as well.

A simple black shirt/blouse/dress is often a good first option. Solid colors are better than shirts with patterns or stripes for head shots. Avoid white shirts unless you plan to  have it underneath a jacket or a sweater. For lifestyle photos, any pattern is acceptable

Darker clothes attract less attention and put the attention on your face and eyes. This is one of the reasons I love black. It can also be dark gray, browns, etc… Again, this is for the head shot portion.

No glitter.

For multiple looks, bring a variety of clothing that emphasizes different roles/characters. This is especially true for models and actors looking into building a portfolio and have booked a longer session which will allow time for multiple looks

All shirts, dresses and garments should be neatly ironed on a hanger.

Different necklines will change the look of someones face. So bring a few different necklines for consideration.

Don’t worry about shoes… unless we are shooting outdoors, most if not all the photos will be from the waist up.

Don’t bring 4-5 of the same style shirts in different colors –bring variety of styles and colors!

REMEMBER: Select and wear clothes that make your child feel comfortable.

Your child’s previous head shots if you have them (so we can improve)

Before you arrive email me photos from Instagram, Pinterest etc…  that communicate the looks you want. This can be very important and go a long way in getting the most out of our session

A young girl in a colorful dress swinging on a tree branch outdoors during her headshot photo session

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FAQs About Young Actor and Model Headshots

How do I prepare my child for a modeling headshot session?

Keep outfits simple and age-appropriate. Bring multiple options in neutral colors. I’ll help guide your child through natural expressions and poses during the shoot.

Do you photograph young models for agencies in Syracuse?

Yes, I work with Syracuse and regional modeling agencies to create standout, industry-ready headshots for children and teens.

To learn more about my work and services, visit the main Syracuse photographer homepage.