Step 1: Invest in Professional Headshots | Houston Spring Head Shot Photographer
Invest in Professional Headshots
I work with a local Christian TV station called Keys Media. http://www.keysmedia.tv/
In my research for information on comp cards (or composition cards), which all actors need to provide to agencies, I came across this article from the Houston Chronicle. Notice that STEP 1 is to invest in a professional headshot!! A professional photographer will be able to manage the lighting, posing, and editing of your images to make you look the best that you can be! And that’s what you want to put forward.
This applies not only to actors but also to any professional. LinkedIn is a professional networking site and in my opinion, your headshot should be professional and not a cropped photo of you on vacation! You want potential employers to see that you take the job search seriously and professionally and that is what you will bring to your next job as well.
Tara Flannery Photography is always available for professional headshots. We are currently creating a new package for aspiring actors that includes photography, digital images, and comp cards. Contact us for more information!
How to Manage a Kid’s Modeling Career
by Faizah Imani, Demand Media
Kickstart and manage your child’s modeling career.
If you have a child who consistently rakes in compliments on her looks and personality, a modeling career may be right up her alley. Some parents seek outside assistance to oversee their child’s modeling career, while others choose to go at it alone. These solo individuals are also referred to as “momagers.” To successfully manage your child’s modeling career solo, you need to know how the modeling industry works and how to find gigs for your child.
Step 1
Invest in professional headshots. Child headshots should be simple and capture the look and personality of the child. For best results, choose a photographer who specializes in taking headshots of children. Some casting directors will accept amateur headshots for children; however, having professional shots will show that you’re taking this endeavor seriously.
Step 2
Turn the child’s headshots into “comp cards.” Comp cards are simply the child’s photograph printed on premium photography paper, with your child’s name and contact information printed on the bottom of the card. A good comp card includes several photographs (three to five) of your child to show off his or her modeling range. The comp card also includes a physical description of the child, including height, hair and eye color, weight and clothing size. Comp card companies, online and offline, can design and print the comp cards for around $1.00 or less per card. If you’re good with computers, though, consider using one of the many templates available online.
Step 3
Enroll your child in modeling classes or workshops. There is an art and technique to modeling, working the camera and walking the runway. Modeling classes are a great place for your child to learn these techniques. The fee for these classes vary by instructor. Research the instructor before signing your child up for a class. Ask the instructor for a portfolio of clients he has worked with, and ask what percentage of his students go on to book modeling gigs. If the percentage is lower than half, bypass that class. Get instructor and class recommendations from the parents of other kid models in your area.
Step 4
Create a modeling resume for your child. This resume should include her name, age, height, weight, hair color, eye color and clothing and shoe sizes. The resume should also include the child’s formal training and modeling experience, both professional and amateur.
Step 5
Check with your state’s department of labor to determine whether or not your child needs a work permit. In most states, children under the age of 18 need one before accepting paid entertainment gigs, including acting and modeling. Some states, such as New York require all children under the age of 17 to have a permit.
Step 6
Submit your child’s comp card and resume for new modeling gigs. To find gigs, visit modeling casting call boards. There are plenty of casting call boards online. Some boards provide casting information for free, and others charge a small monthly membership fee. Stay away from casting call boards that guarantees to get your child gigs, as no casting call site can back such a promise. If a casting director is interested in booking your child for a gig, he will contact you.
Step 7
Enroll your child in beauty contests and pageants. Talent scouts and agents often attend these events. You never know who may recognize your child’s modeling skills.
Step 8
Keep a copy of all print work your child is featured in. This copy is referred to as a “tear sheet.” Keep all of his tear sheets together in a physical portfolio or album. Use this portfolio to show off your child’s skills to future casting directors.
Step 9
Take your child to a kid’s modeling agency to get agency representation for your child. Whether or not the agency represents your child all depends upon whether or not your child has a marketable look that fits the agencies current needs. Once your child is signed on for representation, the agency will help the child find modeling gigs. You still retain management rights. However, the agency receives a percentage of the profits for each booked gig it finds for the child. If you find a gig for your child, without the assistance of the agency, you do not pay an agency fee.
So many people wait to book their headshot because they feel like they need to “fix” something first.
Lose a little weight. Clear their skin. Feel more confident. Look more put-together.
But here’s the truth:
The version of you that exists right now is already worthy of being seen.
The best headshots don’t come from perfection — they come from authenticity.
Real expression. Real connection. Real confidence… even if you don’t quite feel it walking in.
During every session, I guide you through posing, lighting, and expression so you feel relaxed, supported, and comfortable — because that’s when the magic happens. You don’t have to know what to do. You don’t have to feel “ready.” You just have to show up.
✨ If you want a headshot that feels like you, I’d love to help.
Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation OR to grab my FREE headshot session guide for more information!
If you’re hosting a holiday party this year… there’s something you don’t want to overlook 👇🏻
Your team is already together, dressed up, and in great spirits — which makes it the perfect moment to update everyone’s headshots. No juggling schedules, no tracking people down, no pulling anyone out of meetings. Just quick, polished photos your team can pop in for, and then head right back to the party.
It’s an easy way to add value to your celebration and give your employees something they’ll actually use heading into the new year. And with my streamlined event setup (and zero admin work for you), the process is effortless from start to finish.
✨ If you’re planning a holiday party, let’s talk about adding on-site headshots. Click the link in my bio to schedule your consultation.
Most people focus on their outfit or expression — but your background plays a huge role in how others perceive you. It sets the tone for your personal brand before you even introduce yourself.
Your space tells clients what working with you feels like.
Here’s how different backdrops communicate different messages:
🏢 Corporate office → traditional, established, and formal.
🌿 Natural outdoor setting → approachable, creative, and warm.
🏙️ Urban or architectural environment → modern, edgy, and innovative.
🎨 Solid color or studio backdrop → clean, versatile, and timeless.
Even subtle shifts in tone, texture, or color can completely change the mood of your headshot — which is why the location is just as important as the lighting or pose.
And here’s the exciting part: with the help of professional AI editing, you don’t have to choose just one. We can create on-brand variations that fit different platforms — like LinkedIn, your website, or your marketing materials — while keeping your headshot cohesive and authentic.
Because when every detail works together — from your expression to your background — your headshot becomes more than a picture. It becomes your first impression.
📩 Ready to plan your next session? Message me and let’s find the backdrop that tells your brand story best.
A forced smile in your headshot could be costing you clients.
Here’s why ⬇️
We all want to look friendly and confident in our photos — but the truth is, people can instantly tell the difference between a genuine expression and one that feels forced.
And those tiny differences can change how trustworthy, approachable, and confident you appear online.
When your headshot feels authentic, it builds an instant sense of connection — the kind that makes someone want to work with you, hire you, or trust you with their business.
That’s why during every session, I focus on helping you relax and bring out a real expression — not a stiff “say cheese” moment. Through subtle posing direction, natural conversation, and a comfortable environment, we’ll capture the version of you that clients actually connect with.
Because your headshot isn’t just about looking polished — it’s about inspiring confidence before you even say a word.
📩 Ready to update your headshot or branding? Message me to book your FREE consultation.
If you’ve ever felt uncomfortable in front of the camera — especially when someone else is taking your picture — you’re not alone. It’s completely normal.
Taking professional photos can feel surprisingly vulnerable. You’re being seen, literally, and that can stir up a lot of nerves.
But here’s the thing: feeling awkward shouldn’t stop you from getting photos you love. My job as your photographer is to help ease that discomfort so you can show up as your best, most authentic self.
Here’s how I help clients do just that:
1️⃣ The Consultation
Before your session, we’ll chat about your goals, style, and how you want to be seen. I also connect clients with trusted stylists who can help you choose outfits that make you feel confident and comfortable (if needed).
2️⃣ A Calm, Supportive Environment
Whether we’re in my studio, your office, or an outdoor location, my priority is to create a space where you can relax, laugh, and genuinely enjoy the process. When you’re at ease, it always shows in your photos.
3️⃣ A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way
Get plenty of rest, hydrate, and plan your wardrobe ahead of time. When you feel prepared, you walk into your session with a completely different kind of confidence.
Because the truth is — professional photos can feel vulnerable, but with the right guidance, they can also be empowering. 💛
📩 Ready to feel comfortable and confident in front of the camera? Message me to schedule your session today.
Here`s what you can expect at a headshot session with me 👇🏻
✨ Pre-session consultation to understand your brand and team dynamics 📋 Wardrobe guidance that aligns with your company culture 🎯 Multiple looks and expressions to give everyone options ⏰ Efficient workflow that respects everyone`s busy schedules 💼 Professional retouching that maintains authenticity 📱 Digital gallery delivery within 48 hours
Be honest—when was the last time your team photos actually represented who you are today? Most companies wait 3-5 years between updates, but your people (and your business) evolve much faster than that.
Your team`s headshots aren`t just photos—they`re the first impression potential clients, partners, and talent get of your company culture. When they`re outdated or inconsistent, what message does that send?
Ready to show the world the dynamic team you`ve built? Let`s create imagery that matches your company`s growth. 🚀
