Why Shea Anne Studios?

DALLAS HEADSHOTS

You have a unique look.

The industry is competitive, and you want to stand out to casting directors and agencies.

You know that all you need is an updated headshot.

You want the best headshot photographer near you, but is Shea Anne Studios the right fit?

Let’s talk about it.

Shea Anne has the unique background of not only being an incredible headshot photographer used by celebrities in LA, NY, and in her new hometown, Dallas, Texas, but she has gone the full industry circle.

Shea Anne started her model career in NY under Ford Models and quickly grew to being published and in demand within commercial work for the next decade. Shea Anne went from modeling to working in a competitive agency where she went through submissions all day to find the right look – working with directors, agents, and celebrities.

This experience of being on both the other side of the camera and active within the selection and booking process gives Shea Anne Studios a competitive edge against other photographers.

“You are so patient with kids” – Child Model Parent (let’s be real, so many Child Model Parents that it’s ending up in this blog).

Shea Anne knows the looks, and how to work with her clients to capture the very essence of their personalities. What are you waiting for?

Let’s summarize:

Shea Anne has been full circle within the industry (model -> agent - > photographer (and having a family in the industry, as her children model as well)
Shea Anne has experience in THE triangle: LA, NY, and Dallas
Shea Anne is patient and personable with her clients, capturing unique looks
Shea Anne’s lighting techniques and editing software can make a great photo remarkable
Shea Anne has a pop-up studio, yes – that’s right, she’s mobile in addition to having her own studio in Dallas, Orange County and access to one in New York
Shea Anne loves going to fashion week and her designer clients invite her regularly
Shea Anne has THE vendor list – you need it, she’s got it: wardrobe stylist, hair & make up artists, etc

Now, it’s your turn, are you ready to be noticed?

We book up quickly, check us out on Instagram and Book Now.

Why hire a professional photographer? Top 12 Reasons to Hire a Professional Photographer

Up and coming child models and child actors have the potential to start their career young! No career starts without a resume – and a professional headshot is just that in the child modeling and child acting industry. Professional headshots by professional photographers set you apart from the competition and can have a drastic impact on whether you are booked or not.

Shea Anne Studios has the unique skill set, connections, and eye from being in the industry as models, booking agents, and now well respected Dallas headshot photographers, Orange County headshot photographers, and New York headshot photographers.

We know the lighting, the looks, and what works to create the best headshots.

These are the top 12 reasons to hire a professional headshot photographer:

1. Equipment

2. Professional Editing

3. Lighting

4. Angles

5. Looks

6. Direction

7. Connections

8. Training

9. Experience

10. Tips

11. Agencies know you’re serious about your career

12. Relationship – long-term.guidance on your journey

We all have smartphones, so why hire a headshot professional? If the above reasons did not seal the deal, let’s just say, we’re here, as your partner on your professional journey. We know our craft and would love to support you on this journey.

Let’s dive a little deeper into the reasons why we recommend hiring a professional photographer.

We all have a smartphone, but not all of us have the means and reason to purchase thousands of dollars worth of professional photography equipment. Does $ matter, no, but quality does- a headshot is worth a thousand words, and using the right equipment to capture the desired look is crucial.

Agencies and casting directors will share what they are looking for, working that into the professional photoshoot to align with their goals is what we are good at. We use our experience with equipment, lighting, angles, right locations, and direction to make that look happen. Check out our Instagram and Facebook to see some recent examples!

Gaining direction from the professional photographer will reinforce the training and guidance that you’ve been giving them at home, building up their skill set and confidence in poses, why certain looks need to be practiced, etc.

With over 20 years of experience, there is extreme value in being an artist’s muse and spotlight feature of a photoshoot. The looks, the design, the energy, all combine to perform a unique experience to showcase each unique look and personality.

Working with adults and experienced people can teach them life skills, too: self-confidence, self-esteem, preparation for success – strong work ethic, strong communication skills, a stronger sense of success together. Child modeling and child acting also provide an opportunity to start the child’s saving to be used for trade school, college, and/or setting them up for success for their future.

Hire a professional photographer, there has not been a single person thing that it was a bad idea. Just like working out, once you’ve made it to the gym, conquered your work out goals, and are on your way back to catch up with regular life, it’s rare that you regretted that workout, even if you might not have wanted to do it in the beginning.

Join us for an upcoming booking session – and join our community on Instagram and Facebook to get more tips on headshots and upcoming trends in the industry.

Want more? Join us on our newsletter – we won’t spam, we might be inconsistent, but when we share something, it’s because it’s relative to you.

How do I Get Into Child Modeling? Tips for Starting Your Child Modeling Career!

dallas kids headshot photographer

You have an adorable child, everyone tells you she/he’s should be a child model, and now, it’s time to pursue child modeling, maybe you even ask yourself “how do I get my child into modeling?”

• Tips for getting your child into modeling

• Could your child be a model?

• What is the best age to start modeling?

• What is the age limit for modeling?

• Can my kid be a model?

• How to be a successful child model?

As a top agency recommended headshot photographer, I’m here to share with you resources to make this the best experience possible!

Let me save you the hours of going down the rabbit hole of google, we’ve done it from a research perspective, and by living and breathing this world for the last 20 years.

My name is Shea Anne, and I started my career in modeling as a young teen in New York for Ford Models

I learned:

• What top modeling agencies look for

• What child model headshots sparked interest and quickly moved through the booking process

• What kid model headshots went in the abyss that is the portal of the forgotten headshots

• Looks that top modeling agencies look for

• How important it was to have a great child headshot

• The importance of working with child model photographers that specialized in headshots

This experience led me to my next career, photography. Not only is photography my career, it’s my passion. I love to make people feel beautiful and make every person feel like they are a model.

So let’s get straight to it: what are the BEST tips for getting my child into child modeling?

1. Decide if you want an agency to represent your child or if you want to self-submit

2. Agency route: research agencies in your area – kids modeling agencies (top Dallas model agencies, top LA modeling agencies, top NY modeling agencies)

TIP! Agencies are usually NOT modeling schools

TIP! You should never have to pay to be represented

3. Submit a natural photo (professional photograph is highly recommended (see why hire a professional photographer blog))

TIP! Key here is natural photo

TIP! When you go for an in-person/Zoom interview – look like your headshot

TIP! Agencies want to see the real you

Good agents and child modeling scouts will look at you and see your potential. Think, blank canvas. They know what they (and their clients) are looking for and

have a talent for being able to see how they can mold your look into various opportunities.

4. Once submitted, agency will call if interested

TIP! You can connect with agencies 2-3 times a year

TIP! Connect with agencies when you have a new headshot

TIP! Agencies LOVE fresh looks!

Check out our guide: How often should you update your child’s portfolio (hyperlink to blog)

OTHER Dieing to know questions – Child modeling Q&A!

Could your child be a model?

Make sure your child is really interested in being in the industry – how to find out, ask them! And then, ask again and test the waters at home, do they love being in front of the camera?

Attitude is key – a patient child is a must. Sometimes jobs are booked for entire days, there’s a lot of waiting… can they stay entertained?

Do they love the camera? Do they enjoy “working the angles”

Can the fake it?! When the director or photographer says, “action” can they go into character?

Do YOU as a parent/role model/caregiver have a flexible schedule?

Is there a best age to start modeling?

Model when you want, when it’s right, when it becomes a passion to pursue. We have new industry models coming out as senior citizens and models starting at infants.

How to be successful as a child model?

1. Work it.

2. Network

3. Keep portfolio updated

4. Be prepared – wardrobe (link to wardrobe)

5. Cooperate and pay attention to detail

Have more burning questions?!? Check out our blog and scroll through popular topics, or email us at [email protected] – how’d we become the best headshot photographer in Dallas, Orange County and New York? We know the right people and take care of our community.

We are here for you – join our community on Instagram! Like Facebook better, click here!

Top child headshot photographer near me-

Top child headshot photographer Dallas,

Top child headshot photographer New York,

Top child headshot photographer Orange County

Want more looks? Ideas? Thoughts? Support? Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to see latest trends and looks! Want to be notified with more industry blogs – sign up here (hyperlink) to get the latest articles on child modeling, child headshots, upcoming photoshoots, wardrobe tips and more!

Need.a new headshot? Check out our upcoming photoshoots.

Self Submission Process for Child Models (& Actors) – Self Submission VS Using an Agency

Orange County + dallas kids headshot photographer

How to start a child’s modeling career is a process, so we at Shea Anne Studios, are here for you. Things to consider if you would like to self-submit to casting directors, brands, magazines, and more (and a few tips and tricks along the way), and more.

Why this article?

My passion is to make people feel beautiful and make every person (children and adults) feel like a model.

We are here for you as a resource and we love our child models and child actors, and love making them feel beautiful.

Steps for self-submission:

1. Your child model and child actor needs a social media account

Instagram (check out and follow ours here for tips and looks)
Facebook (check out and follow ours here for tips and looks)

Keep these pages active!

PRO TIP! Hashtags!

2. Mom / Dad / Guardian / Model Support - Directly engage your community, brands, clothing companies, and magazines you love and would like to work with – once again – stay active! This is not a “one and done” “check it off the to-do list”, this is a constant process that you must be consistent with.

PRO TIP! Look at the social handle looks
Share photographs that look similar to that style on your page
Hashtag and @ the brand & message directly

PRO TIP! Can you find their scouting or casting directors online?

3. Option – submit to websites, example (www.lacasting.com) that showcases upcoming casting calls

PRO TIP! When submitting to websites, use a professional photographer for your headshots (link to why hire a professional photographer)

4. Keep your child headshots updated (link – how often should you update your portfolio blog)

5. Be supportive – realize that this is an industry where you have to be flexible, support your kid model’s career, be easy and professional to work with, and follow guidelines and suggestions

Need.a new headshot? Check out our upcoming photoshoots (link to book now).

9 Tips for the Best Professional Headshot Photoshoot

dallas + Orange County Headshots

Whether you are beginning your acting or modeling career or have been working with the top professional headshot photographers for years, preparation makes a good photoshoot a great photoshoot.

Our top headshot photographer in Dallas and top headshot photographer in Orange County have come together to give you the best tips for getting the most out of your professional photoshoot.

Headshot examples always help, and we recommend these tips:

1. Communication, Communication, Communication

Communicate with your agency or your manager prior to scheduled photoshoot. We recommend asking your agency or manager what looks they need you to have. Typically they will ask you for either a theatrical or commercial look. What's the difference?

· Theatrical: serious shot, more mood
· Commercial: more colorful, happy, bubbly

Please do communicate with your photographer prior to the session your goals and what your agency or manager has shared with you.

2. Wardrobe

Wardrobe can make or break your headshots – check out our headshot wardrobe tips & wardrobe guidelines here

There is so much to consider:

o Right colors VS wrong Colors
o Avoid black (unless your child is going for a goth, bad or troubled kid type of role)
o Fun and bright colors!
o Single colors versus busy patterns
o STEAM! STEAM! STEAM!

Your wardrobe is the first thing people see, please make sure that you steam, iron, or dry clean all wardrobe clothing. . . There is nothing worse than showcasing yourself with wrinkled, stained, or otherwise messy clothing

Represent you – yourself – ask yourself, does this outfit make me feel good inside and out?!?

3. Accessories
PRO TIP! The best accessory is no accessory at all

4. Hair
PRO TIP! DON”T get a haircut right before – have about a week in for a fresh look

We really recommend to stay AWAY from hair gel for both girls and boys. Hair should be word down and natural for majority of shoot . . Stray away from mohawks, fauxhawks and ponytails

5. Makeup

We want you to look your best – and so do you! Make the absolute most out of this experience by having your makeup done professionally (LINK TO HAIR AND MAKEUP REFERENCE

Your photographer will have people they recommend, I would recommend using whomever your professional photographer uses because there is a relationship already built and expectations of desired looks and industry standards do not have to be explained again (basically, it’s the less risky option)

6. Shoes:

Babies up to 12 months and non-walkers: best shoe is no shoe

Other: keep them simple.

§ Neutral colors
§ Converse
§ Single color (black, navy, gray…)
§ New or new looking

7. When to schedule your photoshoot?

Younger Kid – we all know this, but a friendly reminder is to schedule around nap tap

Show up on time – timing matters! Every moment counts – and professional photographers have a reason for every process – show up on time! You wouldn’t want to waste that perfect moment because the lighting is not quite right…

8. Get a well-rested night of sleep!

Take care to have a fresh face.

9. Stay out of the sun

We have worked on thousands of photoshoots, and we cannot stress enough how these basic tips for how to prepare for a professional photoshop and tips for getting the most out of your professional headshot photoshoot are for making a successful photoshoot experience! If you follow these wardrobe guidelines and tips , look forward to having a classy, professional headshot photo to show agents and casting directors.

Want more?

Follow us on social (Instagram & Facebook) – gain inspiration on industry trends, see what looks casting directors are requesting, and specials on up and coming photoshoots.

Stay beautiful.
Stay true.
Stay authentic.

We can’t wait to make you look and feel great – like the model and actor you are! Serving Dallas, Texas, Orange County, California, and New York, New York.

I’m a Dallas-based professional photographer with years of headshot and agency experience! We host headshot sessions in Orange County, California, Dallas, Texas and New York, New York, book today!

Modeling Photoshoot vs Headshot Photoshoot

dallas + new york + orange county kids headshot photographer

We get asked all the time, what IS the difference between actor, model, and business headshots? Well, we’ve summed it up for you in this article to give you a quick summary to get that “ah-ha!” moment afterward.

Headshots are a staple in so many different parts of life and business- and as an up and coming child model or up and coming child actor, great headshots are key to getting you in the door and opening another world of opportunities.

Sometimes we want both modeling and professional looks, we are here to guide you in your goals, so let’s talk a little bit about the differences:

Modeling headshots draw artistic, flattering looks where we tend to show a personality. The photos tend to be more flattering, more beauty-focused in general. Make-up can show personality and what style of modeling you like. Typically modeling agencies request both headshots and full-body photos (and lifestyle photos, too). The best modeling photoshoots lead one into certain energy or emotion. Show that energy while you are modeling!

Headshot photoshoots include a different expectation altogether. We have some amazing tips for getting the most out of your headshot photoshoot, tips for photoshoot wardrobe do’s and don’ts, and even understanding agency lingo on our blog (ALL HYPERLINKED). Feel free to cruise around the articles to find all of the resources you need.

Headshots tend to be more up close and personal. The lighting and angles that you will be asked to do with a professional headshot photographer are so important and one of the main reasons why we recommend using a professional.

As far as clothing, headshot clothing tends to be more simple: solid, bold jewel tone colors - see detailed example here.

Business headshots showcase you, your energy, and your professionalism. We take a different approach to business headshots that allow you to stick out in the crowd of traditional LinkedIn photos – enhancing your ability to own your look and your brand.

Shea Anne Studios works with the top agencies in Dallas, Orange County, and New York. Through a passion for photography and the industry, we love what we do and can’t wait to help you grow your career. Let’s get social – Instagram & Facebook

Should I Hire a MakeUp Artist for my Headshot?

LA + dallas Kids headshot photographer

A headshot is an industry resume. Casting directors and booking agents look through hundreds of headshots in order to find the ideal look for a certain gig. What casting directors are looking for in a headshot is a fresh face that can mold into what they are needed.

Would you show up to a job without a resume?

Acting headshots or professional headshots are created to market yourself.

Your headshot will have less than a second to make an impact and decide whether or not you get hired based on your look and how you’ve been represented. Actors, non-actors, models, and even professionals need to have polished representation.

Traditional makeup artists (think retail or department stores) are trained to do makeup for everyday wear, not camera ready, so it is always important to voice that the makeup needs to be for on camera.

Proper makeup artists help perfect the persons’ and/or child's’ natural beauty. They know what makeup is best for on-camera – where to contour to highlight the best features, etc. Makeup artists know what to do to smooth over skin tones and complexions and accent face shapes for the different angles that a professional headshot photographer will use. On the other hand, the wrong makeup can reflect light and is not made camera-ready, risking a poor turnout for the professional headshot.

Bonus:

Think of all the places where you can use your professional headshot:

· Online portfolio

· Media

· Social Media

· Personal Website

· Email

· Casting submission

· Agency submission

· Self-submission

So what do you think, should you hire a makeup artist for your professional headshots?

Shea Anne Studios works with vetted makeup artists that know exactly the look and styles needed for the various types of headshots and modeling looks for photoshoots. As soon as you book your photoshoot session, please book your makeup artist.

If you cannot afford hair and makeup, the best advice is less is more.

If you can budget for a professional makeup artist for your professional headshot, it Is highly recommended in the industry. Child modeling and child acting are extremely competitive and having these extra touches can help set you apart from your competition. See our Instagram for looks and styles of makeup for our different child models and actors.