The InstantCast Blog » Headshots http://blog.instantcast.com Your Source for Casting Calls, Tips, and Gossip Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:28:14 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.8.5 en hourly 1 Get Your Portfolio Review with Headshot Photographer JM Spafford in FLA & NY! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/10/08/reserve-your-portfolio-review-with-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-in-florida-or-nyc-right-now/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/10/08/reserve-your-portfolio-review-with-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-in-florida-or-nyc-right-now/#comments Thu, 08 Oct 2009 20:47:23 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=8943 JM Spafford, InstantCast headshot photographerInstantCast headshot photographer JM Spafford wants to help YOU further your career. In your portfolio session you’ll get professional headshots, career advice, and a review of all your different looks.

YOUR career is important to us. We want to make sure you’re putting your best face forward… let us help when you reserve your headshot session with JM Spafford in the NYC area or his new location in Florida!

Let JM capture your star quality…isn’t it time you shared you shine with the world? ***Click here to reserve your session now***

By: Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast Editor

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/10/08/reserve-your-portfolio-review-with-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-in-florida-or-nyc-right-now/feed/ 1 InstantCast Headshot Photographer JM Spafford: From NYC to the Florida Keys…and Back! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/09/29/instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-from-nyc-to-the-florida-keys-and-back/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/09/29/instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-from-nyc-to-the-florida-keys-and-back/#comments Tue, 29 Sep 2009 19:21:51 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=8743 jmdsHey Everyone, it’s JM Spafford, the official NYC InstantCast Headshot Photographer, with some exciting news I’d love to share with you all: I’m now expanding my shooting services to include all of Florida! As you may know, NYC sets the standard in headshot, glamour and portfolio styles so we thought it would be fair to come down and make that style available to you. So if you’re in Florida, NY, NJ, or CT click here to reserve a shoot with me now.

I really hope to be able to share my passion in helping actors create striking photographs that book them work all along the East Coast. Hope to hear from you, and shoot, soon! Regards, JM Spafford. Click here to reserve your session with me today!

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/09/29/instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford-from-nyc-to-the-florida-keys-and-back/feed/ 0 Last Headshot Tip of the Week: The DOs and DON’Ts of Retouching! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/15/last-headshot-tip-of-the-week-the-dos-and-donts-of-retouching/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/15/last-headshot-tip-of-the-week-the-dos-and-donts-of-retouching/#comments Sat, 15 Aug 2009 08:00:47 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7610 Headshot by JM SpaffordEveryone does it. Everyone. It’s a very rare headshot indeed that needs no retouching, and, even if you think you look perfect, there are certain things that the right retouch artist can do in post-production that will give your picture that little bit of extra oomph that might just book you the job of your dreams.

The point of retouching is to bring out the best version of you – not to make you look like a supermodel.

A retouch artist should be able to get rid of blemishes, tone-down any under-eye circles, brighten the whites of your eyes and your teeth, but still leave the photograph looking natural and un-touched.

Most professional photo-printers offer retouching services, and if they don’t, your photographer will certainly either know where to get retouching done, or will do it himself (there may be a fee attached to this service – as it does take some time to make a photo perfect). Even though there is usually a charge for retouching – do it! Don’t spend a few hundred dollars on getting great photos and then be stingy with the extra $20 or $30 bucks it’ll take to go the extra mile.

Remember, however, even though all photos get retouched, there is such a thing as getting too much done to your photo. Don’t ask your photographer or retouch artist to do things like change the color of your shirt, paint fake muscles on you, make you skinnier or fatter, or anything else that would change the overall picture. This is why you should be very prepared at your shoot – because retouching can only go so far.

After you’ve gotten your photo retouched, print away! Get at least 100 photos – you’ll need them. When you go on an audition, staple your resume to the back of your photo and cut off the extra edges (headshots are printed 8 inches by 10 inches, and most paper is 8 ½ inches by 11 inches).

Be proud of your photo! You put a lot of work into it – and hopefully it represents you perfectly. Follow these easy steps and you’ll be sure to have pictures you love for the rest of your life.

Click here to start getting headshot photos with me now in NYC!

By: Headshot Photographer, JM Spafford

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/15/last-headshot-tip-of-the-week-the-dos-and-donts-of-retouching/feed/ 0 Headshot Tip of the Day: Photographer JM Spafford on Picking Your Headshot http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/14/headshot-tip-of-the-day-photographer-jm-spafford-on-picking-your-headshot/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/14/headshot-tip-of-the-day-photographer-jm-spafford-on-picking-your-headshot/#comments Fri, 14 Aug 2009 15:53:33 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7589 Headshot by JM SpaffordSo now you have 500 photos and you have to pick that one, single photo that’s going to be your calling-card in the industry. Usually, your photographer will choose some of his or her favorites for you to narrow it down.

It is rare that you’ll get the whole session to review – but if you want that, don’t hesitate to ask. Your photographer should be able to pick a variety of shots that he or she thinks shows you at your best.

With several choices in-hand (a few of your best from each set-up), you should get a second (or third, or fourth) opinion on which shot you should get printed. Feel free to ask friends, your agent, your family, etc.; on many levels, their favorite shot may be based on gut reaction rather than carefully weighing the options, but this is valid!

Many casting directors may not spend more than a few seconds looking at your photo. You want it to jump off the page and grab their attention.

Do your eyes shine? Do you look approachable? Is the photo technically good (for instance, is it cropped well and does the lighting flatter you)? Take all these into account when you are choosing the photo to print.

If you have a few that you simply cannot choose between, it might be a good idea to get them retouched and print them up at 8” by 10” to really see what they look like at that size. Are there any flaws that can’t be easily fixed by retouching? Does the larger size make the close-up a little too close? It’s hard to tell exactly what you’re looking at until it’s been retouched and you’re seeing a hard-copy of the photo rather than looking at it on a computer screen. Retouching is an essential part of any photo – which brings us to my next headshot tip…stayed tuned to my next blog!

Click here to reserve your photo session in NYC with me now!

By: JM Spafford, Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/14/headshot-tip-of-the-day-photographer-jm-spafford-on-picking-your-headshot/feed/ 0 Headshot Tip of the Day: RELAX! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/13/headshot-tip-of-the-day-relax/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/13/headshot-tip-of-the-day-relax/#comments Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:25:45 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7561 Headshot by JM SpaffordOkay – so it’s the day of your shoot. If you have picked a good photographer and have prepared to the best of your abilities, you know you’re in good hands. Relax, have fun, and don’t worry if each frame isn’t perfect.

The photographer will shoot hundreds of photos – and remember, it’s in his best interest to make these photos GORGEOUS! A lot of photographers work by referrals, so the photographer will be doing his or her best.

He or she wants to give you a great experience and some great shots. And a good photographer should turn out photographs that you’re able to use for a few years.

Good photographers are good at seeing you for you – and bringing the version of you that you want out on film. So be honest. If you really want something special or different in your photos or if you were unhappy with a previous headshot experience for any reason – tell your photographer about it!

Your photographer should do their best to get the shots you want, but they can’t read your mind. Also, remember, that your photographer is the professional – so if he or she has a different idea for what might look best for you or for what type of shot you might be able to use – go with it! If you trust your photographer, your shots will be all that much better.

Click here to reserve your photo session with me in NYC today!

By: Headshot Photographer JM Spafford

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/13/headshot-tip-of-the-day-relax/feed/ 0 Headshot Tip of the Day from JM Spafford: Prepare for Your Shoot! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/11/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-jm-spaffordprepare-for-your-shoot/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/11/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-jm-spaffordprepare-for-your-shoot/#comments Tue, 11 Aug 2009 17:02:41 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7480 brick headshotOne of the best ways to be sure you get all the shots you need on your shoot is to be super-prepared. This encompasses making sure you’ve taken care of your skin and hair the night before, choosing the right wardrobe, and having each look you’ll want to be shot in ready-to-go before the shoot even starts.

But even though you should prepare ahead of time, you should also be ready to improvise and go with the flow.

Many of the best headshots come from an easy-going collaborative relationship between the photographer and the subject. Click here to get headshots with me in NYC today!

If you’re prepared with an idea of what you want, the photographer will be able to focus on making you look your best (that way, he or she doesn’t have to play the role of stylist as well).

The night before the shoot, make sure to get PLENTY OF REST! The best make-up artists in the world have trouble covering up the tell-tale signs of a late night.  Don’t do any crazy new beauty routines or try any new products that you might be allergic to. Also, complete your normal routine with your hair.

Ladies: wear your hair as you would to an audition; natural-looking is much better than over-teased, over-sprayed and over-done (unless that’s the look you’re going for!)
Guys: for facial hair, shave as you normally would. If you sometimes have a bit of facial hair and sometimes are clean-shaven, leave it scruffy for the first part of the shoot, and then bring a razor to clean it up for the second part. This is a super easy way to get two drastically different looks out of a single shoot.

The last part of preparation is wardrobe. A good rule of thumb is to bring a couple of different looks – solid colors with attractive but not too revealing necklines work best. Men should bring a couple simple sweaters and/or nice-looking crew-neck options and a couple of button-down options. Ladies should bring a few sleeveless options and a few options with sleeves.

Your photographer should have a good idea of what clothes will look best in what location (for instance, outdoors would be a more casual, commercial look, and indoors would be for more dramatic or theatrical attire). Make sure that what you bring is clean, pressed, and looking new! Fabrics that are old, worn, or fading will only draw attention away from your stunning face!

Click here to book a photo session with me today!

By: JM Spafford, Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/11/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-jm-spaffordprepare-for-your-shoot/feed/ 2 Headshot Tip of the Day from Photographer JM Spafford http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/10/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-photographer-jm-spafford/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/10/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-photographer-jm-spafford/#comments Mon, 10 Aug 2009 18:26:08 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7448 JMChoose the right photographer: Okay, so you need new headshots. Those black-and-white film shots that were taken when you were 14 and 100 pounds heavier (or lighter) really don’t look like you – and though they may get you an audition, if you show up looking ten years older with a different hair color, the casting agent will feel duped, and you won’t have a snowball’s chance in hell of getting cast. The most important part of your headshot is that it looks like YOU!

A headshot should look like the best version of you… the you that will show up to the audition, the you that a casting agent or director will want to spend time with – whether it’s a single-day commercial shoot, or a three-year run on Broadway. So – point number one in this list is all about picking the right photographer to bring out that very best “you.”

Now, there are headshot photographers in every corner of New York and you can find a photographer in any price range… from the too-cheap to the oh-my-god-I-can’t-believe-anyone-would-pay-that-much-for-pictures. So how do you choose? The first thing to look at is a photographer’s samples. Most photographers now present their portfolios online. Remember, these are the shots that a photographer has chosen to exhibit, and usually reflect what he or she does best. Are they all natural light? Outdoors? Does the photographer do studio lighting and natural lighting both? Are they all studio shots?  Know what you are looking for and what that photographer can achieve.

If you are looking for purely theatrical shots, a photographer who does really great dramatic studio shots might be for you. If you are heading more to the commercial/film side of things, then outdoors and/or natural light might be better. If you are looking to cast a wide net and get several different shots you can use for different types of auditions – look for a versatile photographer who can master many different moods.

One other part of choosing the right photographer is choosing someone that you like. If you get a bad vibe from a photographer – don’t use them! Remember, you are going to be spending several hours with this person – and they are responsible for making you look relaxed, comfortable, and confident on-camera. If you don’t feel comfortable around the photographer, or you feel as though you’re being rushed, etc., that discomfort will show in your eyes in your pictures. Choose wisely! Choose meeeeee! Click here to book your photo session with me now.

By: JM Spafford, Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/08/10/headshot-tip-of-the-day-from-photographer-jm-spafford/feed/ 1 So you want to be an actor. Step 1: Get the right headshots today. http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/30/so-you-want-to-be-an-actor-step-1-get-the-right-headshots-today/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/30/so-you-want-to-be-an-actor-step-1-get-the-right-headshots-today/#comments Thu, 30 Jul 2009 15:58:00 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=7163 emilyHaving the right headshot is one of the most important things you need in this industry. Don’t just pick any photographer out of the yellow pages without doing a little research and asking a few questions.

For those of you living in LA or the NYC area, InstantCast makes it simple. We’ve formed great partnerships with professional headshot photographers in both cities–click here to learn more.

If you don’t live in LA or NYC, look to friends or fellow actors who have gotten their headshots done and find out where they went. Get referrals. Ask your acting teacher who they recommend.

Once you narrow your search down to a few choices then now it’s time to find out a little information from the source. Here are a few questions you should ask BEFORE booking your photo shoot.

What’s the price and what does that include? Do they do hair and make-up? How many poses are included? Does that include both photos and a CD? What is the price difference for color or black and white and can you do both?

Will you be directing the shoot or do I come up with my own poses? For a first timer, you are a looking for a professional photographer who can help you look your best. You’re not going to immediately know how best to pose or be able to portray the right emotions without prompting.

How long will the session be? Make certain you know how much time the photographer is giving you. You don’t want to worry about not getting to something because you’ve run out of time.

And lastly, how easy is it to make additional copies? What will that cost you? You can only assume you’ll be going back at some point for more headshots and it helps to know that information upfront.

By Casting Director Renee Godbout

Want one-on-one advice from Casting Director Renee Godbout? Click here to get your own Personal Casting Consultation today!

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/30/so-you-want-to-be-an-actor-step-1-get-the-right-headshots-today/feed/ 0 What Do You Think of My Latest Photo Shoot…Will You Be Next? http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/16/what-do-you-think-of-my-latest-photo-shoot-will-you-be-next/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/16/what-do-you-think-of-my-latest-photo-shoot-will-you-be-next/#comments Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:17:15 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6793 ariThis is Ari, an aspiring rock singer in a band. He asked me to make him look like a rock star for some promotional pictures and I’d like to think I did (with the help of my lovely makeup artist)!

I love helping people develop portfolios that will help further their careers. So, whether you’re an aspiring rocker, rapper, reality TV star…I want to help you look and feel your best!

Call me today to schedule a photoshoot in New York! Click here to get going.

By: JM Spafford, InstantCast Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/16/what-do-you-think-of-my-latest-photo-shoot-will-you-be-next/feed/ 1 Check Out My Latest Photo Shoot with Young Aspiring Actor Tracy! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/14/check-out-my-latest-photo-shoot-with-young-aspiring-actor-tracy/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/14/check-out-my-latest-photo-shoot-with-young-aspiring-actor-tracy/#comments Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:04:32 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6717 tracyThis is Tracy, a really cool, young aspiring actor. I recently shot his first series of headshots and both of us were quite pleased with the results. He was completely inexperienced but I think his determination and great look will make him go far.

After a few minutes behind the camera, he warmed up and I think he’ll do great using these photos. I would love to take some photos of more aspiring actors out there…like InstantCast members. Click here to be in my next featured photo shoot!

By: JM Spafford, InstantCast Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/14/check-out-my-latest-photo-shoot-with-young-aspiring-actor-tracy/feed/ 1 Hear How this Headshot of Emily Helped Her Book Film Projects! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/see-how-this-headshot-of-emily-helped-her-book-film-projects/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/see-how-this-headshot-of-emily-helped-her-book-film-projects/#comments Wed, 08 Jul 2009 19:05:55 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6587 emilyCheck out the latest headshot I took of Emily. Emily is a pro who works in theater, tv and film. She came to me knowing exactly what she wanted and, I think, she got it. She claims her photos have helped her book film and movie projects. I love shooting with people who have a clear vision of what their careers could be.

Think you have what it takes to be my next headshot client? Of course you do! I’m ready to help all you InstantCasters find fame with great headshots and get web exposure on this blog. So, what’s stopping you? Click here to reserve your session with me now!

By: JM Spafford, InstantCast Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/see-how-this-headshot-of-emily-helped-her-book-film-projects/feed/ 1 Check Out Headshot Photographer JM Spafford’s Latest Photo Shoot of Model Crystal! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/check-out-headshot-photographer-jm-spaffords-latest-photo-shoot-of-model-crystal/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/check-out-headshot-photographer-jm-spaffords-latest-photo-shoot-of-model-crystal/#comments Wed, 08 Jul 2009 16:55:29 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6574 crystalHi InstantCasters! I want to share with you my latest photo shoot this week & give you a glimpse of my work! Check out this photo of Crystal, a delightful young model who came to me to help flesh out her modeling portfolio.

After shooting in the studio, we took a sunny walk through the neighborhood shooting against greenery, brick and some cute passing by puppies. I feel I captured her warm, friendly spirit…what do you think? I’d love to hear your feedback…be sure to leave a comment on this blog & start a dialgoue with me!.

I hope to see YOU on here next! So, if you want to learn more about my services and reserve your very own photo session with me click here now!

By: JM Spafford, InstantCast Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/08/check-out-headshot-photographer-jm-spaffords-latest-photo-shoot-of-model-crystal/feed/ 0 Meet InstantCast Headshot Photographer JM Spafford! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/07/meet-instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/07/meet-instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford/#comments Tue, 07 Jul 2009 19:02:33 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6542 spafford_joshHello wonderful InstantCast members! My name is JM Spafford. I’m the NY headshot photographer for InstantCast and I can’t tell you how thrilled I am to be working with such an exciting, vibrant community. I’ll be creating a series of blogs over the summer so you can get to know me. I’ll be sharing my thoughts, experience, and expertise about headshots with you.

This summer I want to help you learn the art of headshot photography and its impact on the entertainment world. As we get to know each other I’ll be giving you tips and insider advice on how to make one’s way in this business. But first off, who the heck am I and why should I be taking your photos?! Stay tuned to my next blog to find out! Click here to book your photo session with me in New York today.

By: JM Spafford, InstantCast Headshot Photographer

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/07/meet-instantcast-headshot-photographer-jm-spafford/feed/ 0 Don’t Get Typecast! Here are 4 Easy Ways to Stay Versatile: http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/01/dont-get-typecast-here-are-4-easy-ways-to-stay-versatile/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/01/dont-get-typecast-here-are-4-easy-ways-to-stay-versatile/#comments Wed, 01 Jul 2009 18:48:31 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=6388 Steve SchirripaIt’s good to know what roles suit you best, but versatility is the key to success. If you find yourself always auditioning for the same parts, try to mix it up a bit.

Steve Schirripa, who played Bobby Bacala on The Sopranos for 7 years, is now playing a father on the ABC Family teen drama The Secret Life of the American Teenager. He was smart to go in a completely different direction and show his range.

Here are some things to remember:

1. Make certain you have a few different headshots that showcase a range of characters you can portray.

2. If you are most comfortable in comedic roles, go out of your way to occasionally audition for a drama and vice versa.

3. Keep your wardrobe up to date with a variety of different styles of dress. Have some formal, casual, trendy, glamorous, ethnic, business, and conservative clothes on hand.

4. If you’re a female, invest in a few wigs. And if you’re male, experiment with different styles of facial hair. Then have photos taken so you can show casting directors how versatile both your look and acting is.

By Casting Director Renee Godbout

Want one-on-one advice from Casting Director Renee Godbout? Click here to get your own Personal Casting Consultation today!

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/07/01/dont-get-typecast-here-are-4-easy-ways-to-stay-versatile/feed/ 3 Tired of getting turned down? Land your next role with new headshots! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/06/05/tired-of-getting-turned-down-land-your-next-role-with-new-headshots/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/06/05/tired-of-getting-turned-down-land-your-next-role-with-new-headshots/#comments Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:27:59 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=5727 With thousands of movies, TV series, and reality shows being made every day, it’s easier to make it in Hollywood than ever. But no matter how much talent you’ve got, you still need the right tools to get cast.

And you just can’t get in the door without stellar celebrity-grade headshots. That’s why we’re so dedicated to getting you guys professional headshots at a fraction of the normal price.

For InstantCast members in the New York City area, we’ve got our best deal yet: We’ve teamed up with professional headshot photographer JM Spafford, who’s thrilled to help out actors and models who are just getting started. JM is a trained actor himself – that means he knows exactly what stars-in-the-making need.

Learn more or book your New York City headshot session today!

By Alisha, InstantCast assistant editor

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/06/05/tired-of-getting-turned-down-land-your-next-role-with-new-headshots/feed/ 1 Be a winner this week with InstantCast Fantasy Casting! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/26/be-a-winner-this-week-with-instantcast-fantasy-casting/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/26/be-a-winner-this-week-with-instantcast-fantasy-casting/#comments Tue, 26 May 2009 19:23:58 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=5428 This week, InstantCast is celebrating winners of all kinds. We really want you to “go for the gold,” whether that means nailing your next audition, treating yourself to new headshots (New York members – click here!), or playing in the latest Fantasy Casting games!

Fantasy Casting is all about winning too. Will you win the next cycle of America’s Next Top Model? How about Survivor or Dancing with the Stars?

Prove that you’ve got what it takes to be a winner and play now!

By Alisha, InstantCast assistant editor

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/26/be-a-winner-this-week-with-instantcast-fantasy-casting/feed/ 0 This Just In: InstantCast Partners with Celeb Photographer J.M. Spafford http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/20/instantcast-partners-with-celeb-photographer-jm-spafford/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/20/instantcast-partners-with-celeb-photographer-jm-spafford/#comments Wed, 20 May 2009 17:07:31 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=5269 Hey New York InstantCasters: We’re proud to announce that we’ve partnered with celebrity headshot photographer J.M. Spafford of Starboard Photography! Reserve your New York photo session today!

Experts agree that great headshots are your most important tool for success in the entertainment industry. That’s why we’re now offering three HUGELY discounted headshot packages.

Click here to learn more & pick your perfect headshot package today!

By Isabelle Dungan, InstantCast editor

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/20/instantcast-partners-with-celeb-photographer-jm-spafford/feed/ 3 Nail your next interview in 3 steps! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/19/nail-your-next-interview/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/19/nail-your-next-interview/#comments Tue, 19 May 2009 16:12:45 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=5229 It’s easy to get caught up in the idea of fame, fortune, and red-carpet recognition. And with tons of real people becoming stars every day, fame isn’t that far away.

But first, you’ve got to remember that acting is a job. And just like any other job, you’ve got to send in a resume, go in for an interview, and make a great impression with your drive and professionalism.

So what’s the first thing a casting director should see? A killer cover letter.

Even though your headshot and resume will ultimately seal the deal, a simple cover letter provides a professional introduction. It’s a way to make sure you stand out from the pile of papers that a casting director has to sift through every day.

Cover letters should have three sections:

1. A brief introduction stating your name and what part you would like to audition for. If you’ve been referred by an agent, another casting director, or director then make a quick note of that as well.

2. A quick mention of your last role or two. Anything more than your last two significant roles is unnecessary – they’ll see them in your resume anyway.

3. A polite closing. Remember to thank them for taking the time to consider you for the role and include a number where you can be reached. Make sure that same number is also listed on your resume.

Proofread it carefully, checking for both spelling and grammatical errors. It’s your first impression and it has to be a good one!

By Casting Director Renee Godbout

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/19/nail-your-next-interview/feed/ 2 Barack Obama: Cover Model of the Year! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/09/barack-obama-cover-model-of-the-year/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/09/barack-obama-cover-model-of-the-year/#comments Sat, 09 May 2009 06:00:08 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=4999 As we wrap up our “unforgettable celebrity magazine cover” week here at InstantCast we can’t think of a better way to end it than with Barack Obama.

More than any other public figure in the past year, Obama has graced the cover of so many of our fave magazines. Click here to reserve your first celebrity photo shoot!

Think you could be on a collector-worthy magazine cover? Click here and play our Obama fantasy casting contest!

And don’t forget to apply for our newest parts–click here to be the first to apply to the latest modeling & acting gigs!

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/05/09/barack-obama-cover-model-of-the-year/feed/ 1 Transform Your Child into a Star…Today! http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/04/23/transform-your-child-into-a-startoday/ http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/04/23/transform-your-child-into-a-startoday/#comments Thu, 23 Apr 2009 14:37:44 +0000 InstantCast http://blog.instantcast.com/?p=4583 Enough about you! It’s time to make your child a Hollywood star… Here’s how:

Accelerate your child’s career with celebrity-grade headshots. Grant them access to the top agencies nationwide. Just click here to learn more and reserve your slot today! Spots are limited, so act soon. With professional headshots, your child could be the next Miley Cyrus, Abigail Breslin, or Daniel Radcliffe!

Click here to get started & watch your child transform into a star!

]]> http://blog.instantcast.com/2009/04/23/transform-your-child-into-a-startoday/feed/ 3