A Casual Guide to Recording Actors' Video Presentations! 🎬🌟. Professional portrait photographer in Los Angeles | Axenia Haritonova

Guide to Crafting an Actor’s Professional Demo Reel Presentation


💄Makeup and Style Recommendations:

Makeup: Utilize a good foundation to achieve a flawless complexion. If desired, apply a minimal amount of mascara to enhance the eyes. Ensure makeup tones are neutral and impart a natural aesthetic.

Nails: Maintain a natural look for nails, avoiding vibrant colors. Opt for a clean and well-groomed nail presentation.

Hair: Ensure hair is clean and reflects your everyday styling. Present your hair in a normal and well-maintained condition.

These guidelines contribute to a professional and polished image, aligning with industry standards for an actor’s presentation.


👗 What to Wear: 

Actors should wear simple, non-distracting clothing. Solid primary colors and bright jewel tones work well, while busy patterns and large jewelry should be avoided.

It is recommended to opt for neutral clothing, steering clear of patterns and bold accessories for a polished appearance.

Bring along 3-5 outfit options with different styles:

  • Sporty
  • Classic
  • Date Night
  • Casual

Ladies, grab also a black top, a sweater, a tee, or a bodysuit that showcases your neck, collarbones, and shoulders.

For the gents, also extra any black top will do.

Also, pack an ensemble for full-body shots, highlighting your figure and proportions without hiding them.

Stick to solid, pastel-colored clothing without prints or patterns to keep the focus on your face.

Textures like sweaters, leather jackets, satin, and silk look fantastic on camera.

Kindly provide advance photos of the chosen wardrobe options for review. (DM me)

Your attention to these details will contribute to a seamless and professional photography session.


🛍️ What to Bring to a Session: 

Ensure come prepared with all necessary

  • wardrobe changes,
  • a comb, 
  • hair tie, 
  • an essential makeup kit, 
  • and a small mirror with powder for touch-ups during the session. 

Comfortable shoes may be necessary, particularly for outdoor shoots. 


🗣️Content Guidelines:

Creating a video presentation for actors doesn’t adhere to strict standards; however, it must address pertinent aspects and fulfill certain criteria.

Your video should showcase your ability to handle the camera. 

It’s imperative to meticulously prepare and memorize your lines in advance, projecting confidence while speaking.

Our approach avoids excessive editing to emphasize your skill in delivering lines in front of the camera.

Casting directors have varied preferences. While some appreciate straightforward biographical narratives, others prefer emotionally charged demo videos.

Regardless, your demo video “Presentation” should cover fundamental aspects about yourself, such as:

  • Name
  • Age
  • Education
  • Previous roles in films and other projects (mention your actor type, desired roles, interests, and priorities) 
  • Special Skills (highlight sports abilities, dance proficiency, driving skills, language proficiency, etc.)
  • Conclude the video by expressing gratitude to the casting director.

Essential Tips:

The initial 15 seconds are crucial for capturing attention and presenting general information about yourself.

Guidance for On-Camera Presence: 

Be genuine and don’t overly act; display authentic emotions. 

Focus on essential components: 

  • Pause and reflect for a moment. 
  • Speak on camera. Your voice is important. 
  • Naturally reveal different angles of your face—turn right, then gradually shift your gaze to the left. On the top and down. 
  • Showcase your smile and standard facial expressions.

Upon receiving these instructions, please prepare the text and send it to me for any necessary corrections. If you have inquiries, feel free to message me.


👉🏼Overview:

Duration of Filming: 1 hour 

Resulting Demo Reel Length: 1-3 minutes 

Post-production editing will be applied, along with the incorporation of pertinent information about you.

Kindly complete the provided form🚨



About the photographer | Axenia Haritonova

Hey there! I’m Axenia Haritonova, your go-to actor headshot photographer here in sunny Los Angeles, bringing over 8 years of snapping experience to the table. While I specialize in capturing killer actor headshots, my camera also loves diving into the worlds of corporate, brand, family, event, food, and real estate photography.

I proudly hold a degree from Girne American University’s Radio and TV Cinema Faculty, and on the side, I picked up a program certification in psychology — all while perfecting my craft behind the lens. I’m all about people and emotions, and you’ll find that vibe masterfully woven into my portfolio.

Being a bit of a human resource specialist myself, I’ve got the inside scoop on what casting directors are after in a killer portfolio. Beyond just clicking away for headshots, I’m here to help actors prep for casting calls and auditions, boosting those chances of snagging that dream role.

For me, being a headshot photographer isn’t just about pretty pictures; it’s about giving my clients a portfolio that sets them apart from the crowd. If you’re on the lookout for headshots or a portfolio that truly reflects your talents, drop me a line! Let’s make sure your shoot is not just a session but a fun, relaxed experience where you shine confidently in front of the camera.

A Casual Guide to Recording Actors' Video Presentations! 🎬🌟. Professional portrait photographer in Los Angeles | Axenia Haritonova

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