I'd like to think it would be because you've seen my samples and you were blown away, and you just have to work with me! Or, that my resume on IMDb http://imdb.com/name/nm0318466/ made you want to shoot with me just to ask me about some of the things that I have worked on, maybe pick my brain or share some laughs. After reviewing the aforementioned and finding them to your liking, you'll probably come to me because I am also very affordable while still getting you the shots which we hope will get you in the doors. Budget does have to enter into it.
Every time I have had a headshot session for myself, the actor, I've prepared for it like it was an audition. I literally have dialog written out for each role that I'll play (some will tell you that this is definitely a bad idea. That's okay, we can disagree). It's a great plan and I know it works. But when I get in there, the photographer basically ends up telling me that they know me better than I do, and to turn this way and just smile/frown/wrinkle the brow, etc. I leave with the shots that they wanted rather than ones that I wanted! They were shots that had no real thought behind the eyes other than following the direction of how to hold my head, raise my chin and who do I write this check out to? The catchlight was great, nice dramatic lighting, good conversation with some interesting folks- but no compelling thoughts behind eyes.
My experience with those types of scenarios over all these years has taken me to where I won't do that to actors. I want you to be you when the shot is taken. We'll talk about things that get you excited like children laughing, hot air balloons, fried okra, whatever it is that makes you "you". Of course, it can slightly vary because some people just like to be told to tilt here/ chin left, etc., and I may do that as well after finding the thought behind your eyes. Let's face it, we all have our more flattering sides.
As I said on another page, when I was working in casting my boss used to say that what caught her eye in headshots was when she wondered what the actor was thinking right before the shutter was engaged. If she could be drawn into that set of eyes, then she was hooked. She hated pics of people just posing. Don't get me wrong, posing is also necessary in achieving some looks. But if it's all about the pose and nothing else going on, then you have no picture. You might have beautiful or handsome or whatever, but you don't have a compelling shot. The CD has to know that you can convey a thought or emotion before they will bother bringing you into their office. What is their first clue that you can do that? The headshot! Then you get in the door and prove that they made the right choice in bringing you in.
Imagine someone blandly reading dialog. The character and role don't come alive until you breathe life into that dialog. I also like to play "I've Got a Secret". I want you to have one before I hit the shutter. Don't tell me what it is, just let it show in the lens that there is that thought. The secret can be a goofy invented thing or a deep dark family tragedy. The point is to "live" for the picture. I'll be completely honest with you as to whether or not I believe you are "pushing it" in the pics, or if I believe you " are" that person in the shot.
My pledge to you is this, I will do the best I can to give you the shots to put you in a position to achieve your dreams. I am a man of dreams, I understand them and therefore will not take yours lightly. I take pride in all I do, as an actor, singer and photographer. In all aspects I learn daily and apply all I learn to make me a better person and artist for the next day. Your pics will mean something to me. I WANT you to succeed to the level of your dedication! I want these pictures to help you. Your success in getting more attention is my success also.
Should you wish to use me or would like more information, contact me at
310-445-3306. If you do not, I wish the very best in finding the right person for you.
Jerry Giles
