Sheila Burnett is a Professional Theatre Photographer based in the centre of London specialising in actors’ headshots.
My actors headshots are taken digitally so the images can be reviewed as the session progresses. I have a studio just off Warwick Avenue in W9, London. I’m easy to reach by either bus or tube and just 20 minutes from the West End. I also have access to a large communal garden which is great for actors looking for outdoor headshots, this is also a good place to warm up and do full length photography if required.
Professional Headshot Portraits are important for any actor, so it is crucial that each photograph is finished to the finest standard. This is done at a later stage after the proofs have been sent to you. My choice of photographic lighting is a combination of Tungsten and natural light. Tungsten lighting is commonly used in Theatre & Film, and unlike flash it offers a constant light. The advantage of indoor photography is that we are in total control of the environment and don’t have to cancel for bad weather, another advantage is that I have a place for you to freshen up when you arrive, and a place to change, do make up, shave etc.
The advantage of combining this with the outdoor photography, is that outdoor headshots work really well in colour, which they also appeals to the American and European market where headshots are taken differently. Not everyone wants location headshots, so it’s fine to do just studio if that’s what you prefer. I tend to do photo shoots in the afternoons, 12 noon onwards and also at weekends.
I have had 25 years experience taking actors headshots including well known actors from theatre, film and TV, along with radio, TV presenters, musicians, writers and students from most of the leading drama schools in London and across the UK.
If you have any questions you may find the answers on my FAQ page, including suggestions of casting types. If you prefer to chat in person, just give me a call on 020 7289 3058 or 07974 731391.