Headshots at Dock Street Studios

It’s that time of the year (or in my case, every three to six months) when actors need to scrounge the pennies and invest in new, updated headshots, which is hard and quite time-consuming, even when it comes down to finding the right photographer for you. This is why it’s so incredibly important to make sure you pick the right person who captures your personality and your best sides, and who you can also have a laugh on set with. Getting your headshots done is an intimate process, potentially leading to consistent collaboration with this photographer as they get to know your preferred angles, lighting, backdrop, and everything else in between.

Dock Street Studio understands this and makes sure to build lasting connections with all of its clients, because the headshots they take go beyond the client brief, bringing your unique personality into the photos whilst still keeping them polished, neutral, and professional.

How Mark works

Whilst every photographer works differently, main guy Mark Wheelwright (love him) works primarily through the process of collaboration. This is done initially with an informal consultation, talking about artistic vision, which backdrops to use, and any outfit changes that may affect lighting or backdrop options.

In terms of the studio and its equipment, Mark offers the use of the latest possible quality cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment. This helps create beautifully captured RAWs that already have a lot to show casting directors, agents, and other professionals in the industry. Alongside this, the energy around the studio is nothing short of comforting and warm, and allows space to be vulnerable.

Mark understands that some actors, and just people in general, are not the most confident and comfortable when placed in front of a camera. Because of this, he makes sure that everyone feels safe and relaxed during headshot sessions, to ensure that we get that perfect shot. And whilst Dock Street Studio is great for directing people in terms of poses, Mark also values how individuals and their mannerisms show through the lens, so he tends to observe people’s natural expressions to reach that point of authenticity through the screen. You don’t need to arrive knowing how to pose. That part is his job.

Throughout the session, Mark also values any feedback provided by the clients. This involves him taking breaks throughout to make sure the clients are happy with the outcome so far, and to check if there is anything they are missing visually. Because the studio shoots tethered, you see every frame on the big screen as it lands, so that conversation happens in real time rather than after the fact.

Body language and expressions

Now onto the clients: the body language and expressions!

At Dock Street Studio, we heavily adore the bolder use of body language and expressions. I’m not saying the bigger the moves the better (no, no, no). I’m focusing on the solidity of it: if the client is really feeling it, i.e. a confident stance, the camera will pick it up within a heartbeat. And of course, the eyes. There is a reason the saying ‘the eyes are a window to the soul’ exists, and we know it! Mark makes sure there is generous light that goes into the eyes. As actors it is a crucial tool for us, and here at Dock Street, we make sure that we use them as the session goes on. If you want the practical version, Mark’s guide to actor headshot poses goes through the mechanics.

After the session

Once the session is finished, we make sure that the clients are happy with their package, and check if there is anything we have yet to capture. We use a very straightforward selection website for the clients to pick and choose which ones they like, and they can also say how they would like each photo edited. Retouched selects are typically with you within 48 hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should actors update their headshots?

Every one to two years for most people. If you are auditioning constantly or your look changes often, every six months is not unusual — I do mine that often.

Which session should I book?

The Quick-Fire Spotlight at £150 gives two or three looks and five retouched images in 40 minutes, which suits most actors. For a wider set across distinct casting lanes, the In-Depth Portrait at £200 gives five looks and ten images over an hour. Our guide to how many headshots actors need helps you decide.

What should I bring?

Two or three plain, solid-colour tops and a note of the roles you are going up for. There is a full guide to what to wear for headshots.

Where is the studio and how do I book?

Dock Street Studio, Unit 9, 30–38 Dock Street, Leeds LS10 1JF — central Leeds near Leeds Dock, a short walk from the train station, with parking on site. Book online or call and Mark will talk your casting through first.

Book your actor headshots in Leeds

If it is that time of year again, come and do it somewhere that gets to know your angles. Book online, email hello@dockstreetstudioleeds.co.uk, or call 0113 4400102.

About the author
Beya Milan
Actor • Studio assistant & guest writer, Dock Street Studio Leeds
Beya is a working actor based in Leeds who assists on sessions at Dock Street Studio and contributes guest articles drawing on her experience on both sides of the camera.