Headshots, advice?

[pakyooh]

I was asked by my cousin's friend to take his headshots. Most of my work have been portraits so I'm I bit hesitant. I do however want to try it to see if it is something I'm able to do correctly.

I mostly shoot outdoors in natural light. Southern California offers enough of that. My gear would be just my dslr, on-camera flash (not pop-up) and a reflector.

Money is involved, another reason I'm hesitant. Since payment is involved, I want to make sure I deliver.

Any advice on how to handle a headshot session? Or is it something I should pass up on?

[zona5101]

Your stuff looks great. Just shoot like you do. A headshot is just a tight portrait
Like this shot of yours:
engagements

If they are looking for something more "formal" then you can try it but still take some in your style. I like your shots very much.

[pakyooh]

Thank you!

My concern really is the "appropriate" posing and composition since they will be tight shots.
I've looked at a few samples online and try to keep em in mind.

Originally Posted by zona5101

Your stuff looks great. Just shoot like you do. A headshot is just a tight portrait
Like this shot of yours:
engagements

If they are looking for something more "formal" then you can try it but still take some in your style. I like your shots very much.

[Alawrence]

The modeling industry has different standards for headshots. A technically good portrait is not a good headshot. A good portrait photographer may not be able to deliver without researching these standards. For instance headshots tend to be flat when it comes to lighting. The angle of the camera/subject is also different for actors and models. Headshots are expected to be done in full makeup applied by a MUA. Even for men. Otherwise the future model will not have a good portfolio to present to the agency.

PS: this was submitted too soon. The title should have read "model for headshots are more than nice portraits"