Never Fear, The Photo Police Are Here!

Posted by Troy

October 25, 2005

So I decided to apply to a couple of agencies in the Chicago area in hopes that my SAG membership is not totally useless out here in the midwest. Unfortunately, the headshots I have left from 1997-98 (when I was doing things like 7th Heaven) are, well… dated. So, I took the photo I made for my book, blew it up to headshot-size, slapped a border on it, and put my name on the bottom. I used the great Wal-Mart online photo service to send it to the lab so I could pick it up after work.

Now, I dont recommend regular photo labs for headshots by any means. Paying $2.00 a pop is a waste of money. If you are duplicating headshots, you will be better off looking at lithographs from a reputable duplication center that specializes in photographs. Unfortunately, my favorite duplicator on Woodman Ave in Sherman Oaks appears to have gone under (ABC Graphics)

But, I needed 5 so I sent them in.

I got in to Wal-Mart and upon giving them my name was approached by a manager who proceeded to ask me 20 questions about the photo. Did I take it, when was it taken, do I have the negative, do I have proof its mine, etc etc. I took the photo myself last year for my book cover, so yes I took it, no there is no negative (its digital) and no, there is no way to prove I took it. I eventually convinced him it was my property, and I had to sign a document saying so, to take any lawsuits off of the local Wal-Mart branch.

What a pain.

These people take their jobs way too seriously. Sure they should be on the lookout for child pornography and inappropriate photos, but come on - a picture of ME? I mean, I’m flattered they thought it was a professional photograph, and they probably weren’t used to seeing acting headshots in such a small town, but sheesh, give me a break.

Speaking of headshots, I still have about 450 of my old headshots from 1997-98. So for you, the viewer, I am offering the chance to own one of these fabulous photos (see a thumbnail below) for the low price of $1. This includes shipping, and I will personalize the autograph with whatever you want. Of course, I have final refusal, but hey, try me.

So heres a PayPal button for $1. Come on… you know you want one.

(actual photo is 8×10, with a white border and with my name on the bottom.. sorry don’t have an actual scan around)