We recently photographed actor Reece Kirk who is known in Australia for various movie roles and professional wrestling.  He came to Los Angeles to further pursue his acting career. He went to a local photographer to get his theatrical headshots done. Headshots in hand, Reece was ready to go out and book some roles. After a few months of using the headshots he was not getting called in as much as he wanted or for the roles most suited for him. Reece identified his character as edgy, dramatic, and contemplative, and it was clear that he needed new headshots that would get him out for these types of roles.

This theatrical headshot is not well suited for Reece for a variety of reasons. His black shirt and dark background cause his face to blend in rather than pop out. I’m not convinced by Reece’s smile and there is not enough intrigue behind his eyes. His skin tone is green and blotchy which is somewhat distracting. For me the most important issue is that it isn’t clear what character Reece is personifying.

The shot we did in my studio is clean, professional and the character is edgy and interesting. His eyes hold a hint of a secret which makes the audience want to engage with him.  Reece has been much more successful and has gotten a more positive response from these pictures.

“Day and night the best pictures I’ve ever got. The response has been amazing.” –Reece Kirk