necessary media

in the 21st century, it is necessary for artists to display proof of concept and demonstrate marketing knowledge in the same ways their contemporary-music colleagues have for 40yrs. This requires the production and acquisition of media for daily use.

headshots

headshots, even for artists, are supposed to be proof of identity. They don’t need to be overly artistic, they shouldn’t be obscured, and they should contain eye contact with the camera.

Standardization of 8x10” headshots came from 35mm film. Companies readily accept 8x10 and 8x12 (standard camera cropping) and horizontal variations of each.

Key components:

  • eye contact

  • tight shot

  • relatively neutral background

  • subject it clearly the focus

  • realistic (not too glam, not too artistic)

promotional

portraits

Often called “press images” or “brand photos” these images have distinct artistic interpretations and are designed to promote the subject as an individual brand.

Most artists need 4-6 really high quality promotional portraits and 1-2 headshots

Key components:

  • captures personality

  • has artistic goals/vision

  • often for a specific purpose/use

photoshoot breakdowns

headshots: semi-pro

  • photographer with limited experience, coming up in the business, or side hustle. May need to be told how to shoot proper artist headshots
    $250

  • 2hr, unlimited looks

  • 10-20 edited images, unedited unlimited

  • batch editing or beginning level editing

  • too much or too little touch ups (dialogue)

  • provides no styling or makeup.

PROMO PICS: semi-pro

  • photographer with limited experience, coming up in the business, or side hustle
    $250-400 or TF

  • 2-4hr, unlimited looks

  • 10-20 edited images, additional for purchase

  • batch editing or “still playing with Photoshop” editing style

  • may want to get heavily conceptual as a growing artist themselves

  • sporadic or incomplete communication

HEADSHOTs: pro

  • photographer with some to much experience, standardized workflow (similar aesthetic for everyone)
    $500-750

  • 1-3hr, up to 3 looks

  • 5-10 edited images, additional for purchase ($50-150 each)

  • a couple edited images and access to unedited images OR batch edits

  • may or may not provide styling or makeup

promo pics: pro

  • photographer with some to much experience, multiple styles and variations
    $1200-3000

  • 3-5hr, up to 2 looks

  • 5-10 edited images, additional for purchase ($125-500 each)

  • consistent editing

  • clear communication

  • works with PR/Publishing/commercial

headshots: upper pro

  • photographer with 10yr experience, clear style & vision per client
    $800-1500

  • 1-3hr, 2-3 looks

  • 1-5 edited images, additional for purchase ($125-500 each)

  • high level realistic touch ups

  • may or may not provide styling or makeup

promo pics: upper pro

  • photographer with 10yr experience, distinct style, bespoke shoots
    $2750-10,000

  • 1-6hrs, 2-5 looks

  • 1-5 edited images, additional for purchase ($375-900 each)

  • commercial touch ups (often outsourced or in-house editing team)

  • personal commercial communication workflow

  • works with PR/Publishing/commercial

SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT

A social media or branding shoot is often done with an up-and-coming photographer getting into lifestyle photography. They’ll usually shoot for $150-400 and get lifestyle actions shots. They’re akin to promotional portraits but less formal.

TEST SHOOT

Photographers will often test new gear, locations, , concepts, or models, collaborating with all parties for a shoot that is free for everyone. Everyone shares access to the images. It is ok to approach a photographer to inform them that you’re available for test shoots if they would like to work with you, but the type of photoshoot, style, and scheduling are entirely up the the photographer. Also, be prepared to be turned down or added to a long list of potential test subjects.

Live performance video

staged with orchestra | concert with orchestra
staged with piano | concert with piano

LIVE INTERVIEW

One of the best pieces of media for an opera singer to have is a really good professional interview. These are becoming consistently more commonplace. Being good on camera can add to the artist’s value and offer consistently more opportunities.

Interviewing is a skill that should be practiced and honed.

Julia Bullock: The Met - El Niño
https://www.instagram.com/p/C7AUYByR7CV/

audition VIDEO

2-5 contrasting arias (define)
2/3 body - full body • single take • pro audio • HD video • Intro screen (name/contact info/aria title)
multi-cam • animated intro • outro • credits (pianist, producer)

WEBSITES