Look before you jump down my throat. I am not new to photography but I have only been shooting events really the last few years. Also, tbh I've feared myself out of studio and in studio lighting and this week I am going to face it.

First time doing acting headshots. A client/mutual friend reached out asking me to shoot her first casting headshots. I was upfront that I've never shot headshots before and she was super supportive about it which honestly made me feel great. Now I want to show up fully prepared and still shock myself with a successful shoot.

Here's everything about the shoot so you can help me:

About my client

She's a queen,WOC, and masculine of center, short hair, brown skin, her first time doing acting headshots. Her vibe is: silly and always laughing, sweet, but also sexy and cool with a stylish edge. I want to capture all three sides of her personality across and she said she wants 3 looks. BTW, Posing makes me nervous.

My gear (personal)

Studio gear that comes with rental

The style I'm going for

Editorial, simple, cinematic. I'm inspired by Studio Marielle's headshot work. Clean, intentional, subject forward. Not over produced. I want this to feel like my own style from shoot one.

My questions

• What do I need to prepare BEFORE the shoot and ON the day?
• Best lighting techniques for this setup, especially for deep brown skin?
• Are acting headshots usually shoulder up or closer crop?
• Best backdrop colors for brown skin tones? I was thinking to it grey
• What questions should I be asking my client before the shoot to set us both up for success?
• Any tips for getting someone to feel comfortable and bring out natural expressions?

Really appreciate any advice. I want to do right by her and also start building a headshot portfolio I'm proud of. Thanks in advance!