Do I need me some headshots (photos)?!

[Local Talent]

Just caught a Craig's List ad asking for: "Full body pictures (1 in a suit, 1 in casual wear)".
Two previous employers and a prospective one took a pic of my mug in their office or requested one via email.
Another potential client (foreigner) who called after a resume submission, asked whether I had "a big belly"... :rolleyes:

What is this, a trend? Are more of us getting ugly and fat or are employers going "Hollywood", too (see my thread: http://www.socalbodyguards.com/forum/showthread.php?t=219) ?

Some need (or think they do) big guys, I get it. Others want a certain look, I guess. And sometimes, they need to know what you look like before meeting you in the field (they never seem to send a photo of themselves, though).
But I don't like feeling like meat - I sell a service, not a body. I look for jobs - not dates.

On top of this intrusive/creepy (to me) request, some have no pb asking for very personal info without giving out anything about themselves, to the point that red flags go up big time.
The above-mentioned ad requests copies of DL, passport, CCW, and more... :eek:
Careful out there, there's a lot of scammers, esp. on Craig's List. :mad:

Am I being too rigid again, guys? What say you?

[flash]

I can see both sides of this. I can see why an employer would want a full body shot. Just to make sure that they aren't heiring a guy who looks like a bum. And if you won't polish up for a picture, who should they waste their time with an interview. I don't care what people say, when people meet some one new for the first time, the only thing they are looking at is your exterior. Guys don't go to bars looking for girls with big... personalties.

I also see you're want to retain anonymity. You shouldn't be hired based on what you look like. But then again, when an employer has has the choice of who will be trailing them around a high society event, they will probably make the vain choice and take the more in shape (Hey, ROUND is a shape), better looking agent.

I think a fair compromise, IF you are willing to compromise. Would be to have a few full body pictures already taken of you in a suit, is casual wear, torso up, and the stereotypical body guard suit, with the eat piece and dark glasses. It will be easier for the employer to see you as a body guard, if you look like one already. thats a tip I learn from going on auditions all the time.
If you are concerned with your identity, don't put your name on the images, and blur out your face. Employers will know it's you, because YOU sent it. Any one else would have no idea.
Just my thoughts.

[Local Talent]

The analogy with showbiz only goes so far, flash, but there are similarities. So I'll bite. :)

1. When a production needs to cast a part, they make the talent "prove" that they deserve and can play the part via auditions and/or readings. Well, isn't that process dropped when dealing with a known actor, whose work is easily on display on DVD or should be known by anybody in the biz?
Wouldn't it be insulting to Al Pacino if a director called him to ask exactly how tall or old he is?
Pros treat most talent like cattle, and other pros with respect (sometimes undue).

2. The movie business is full of stories like a young Clint Eastwood being told by a casting director or agent (I forget) to get lost. You see, Clint apparently didn't have "the voice of a leading man". Good thing other people didn't use that criterion, huh?

Look, I don't mean to sound like a hot shot who'd interview clients like Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard. I don't have the chops or the resume.
But I resent having to jump through endless hoops to get a job at this point. Now a complete newcomer would do anything to get a chance to prove himself, however, and that's probably where you're coming from.

Understand that I've just seen too many guys who looked great on paper fall flat on their faces as soon as put behind the wheel. So impressive resumes and Big Time clients (see my thread on name-dropping) don't mean much to me anymore. I'd want to meet the guy, ask him a couple of pointed questions, and get a gut feeling.
If a client, for some reason, has some quirky requirement such as needing "special forces" types (would SWAT qualify?), or people above 6'4" (would 6'3" & 1/2 work?), I question their understanding of the mission they're interviewing for.

Speaking from experience, every company cheats and sneaks agents who aren't exactly up to the clients' standards into details. Sometimes the guy is not LE, or has never been in the service, or doesn't carry. Sometimes the clients know and look the other way, sometimes they don't.
But what I've seen first hand is that sometimes this odd guy actually performs a lot better than the ones who initially made the grade. I know because I was that guy more than once... ;)
Most companies are well aware of this and look at specific client requirements as hindrance (of course) and frankly, pure silliness. So do I.

Another thing that's very similar to job-hunting is dating. Ever been on the phone with a chick trying to set a blind-meet, and she can't stop from asking questions? It's just a drink, dammit! What does it matter where my mom's from?! :rolleyes: (And yes, I know we're talking about VIPs whose time is very valuable...Well, mine too, but that's why you delegate. ;))

[flash]

I see what you mean. And yes, my thoughts are from zero EP experience.
I can imagine that having been in the game for a while, it would really suck being asked to jump through hoops over and over.
Is it always that hard to get get a job?

[Local Talent]

Is it always that hard to get get a job?
Yes and no.
It's a competitive business. And right now the economy makes the situation even worse: govt agencies have been slashing their budgets, so there's a lot of hungry cops out there (no OT, pay cuts, etc.). And cops (retired or off-duty) get most of the jobs in L.A. due to their training and experience, of course (although it does not always translate into protective work, but most clients don't know any better), and especially because they can carry firearms (throughout the whole country since H.R. 218).

The (not so) secret trick to get EP work is The Network. Once you're one of the boys, your buddies call you to put you on their details, and you're expected to return the favor when the time comes. It's a very small world and your reputation, esp. among the industry, is therefore invaluable. People skills will help you keep and get jobs a lot more than how tight your groups are or how much you bench press... ;)
Newbies have to rely on ads, while the best gigs are filled by word-of-mouth. I know some less-than-professional people out there who seem to never stop working... :rolleyes:
So it can be tough in the beginning.

If I was starting out and right out of the service, I'd probably join one of the EP factories (ahem, GDB & co), let them "train" me, learn the ropes and build the foundation for my resume. I'd try and get as much work on the side as possible (one-time parties, events, escorts, etc.) to meet other agents and companies. Then I'd get out as soon as I'd become in demand.
Doing your homework while still working for The Man is smart; you may be able to hit the ground running.

Personally, I know I've got plenty of room for improvement in all departments, but not being willing to bend over backwards anymore is probably my worst enemy in this economy (witness: this thread :)).
A while back, someone listing themselves only as "a reputable security company" (IIRC) put out an ad asking for a lof of personal info. I emailed them that I was a "very experienced professional" and if they were kind enough to give me their PPO #, I'd gladly send them what they asked for. Can you guess what happened? :D

So... photos? I don't need to show you no stinkin' photos!! :rant:

Your suggestion of the shades and earpiece shots was cute, BTW, but in a few years you'll realize how silly it sounded (no offense, bro; you just don't know right now). Go to every EP/security company website you come in contact with. Pics of guys trying to look tough in ill-fitting suits while making their best impression of a G-man are a tip-off that the company is run by yahoos who don't know the industry anymore than the newbie clients they're trying to impress.
Only one dude's opinion, mind you.

[Mata-Leão]

Yes, the ear piece, bodybuilder physique and shades are very stereotypical of the Hollywood movie portrayal of what a BodyGuard should look like. Then, you see many pop singers and stars walking around with 350 lb black guys that in all honesty are opposite of the word 'nimble'. Some of these HUGE guys look as though they have a problem with hip alignment by the awkward gate.

I'm am not saying that ALL big guys lack the brain power to be performing a constant threat assessment of every angle of the room - they could be wonderfully experienced. But, the higher majority are hired because of their size.

I am telling you right now, a big guy bodyguard scares the wrong person. Meaning, a huge bodyguard is a deterrent for persons who aren't normally going to cause a problem. A guy that has no professional training or is just a bystander will be the one to remark "wow, would you look at that guy! I bet he could tear your arm off like a celery stalk..."

An actual bad guy sees this BLOB as nothing but a speed bump. When a client is getting cased and the assailants spot a protective agent of "specific characteristics" that absolutely STINKS of ability, awareness and professional training...THAT is a deterrent.

And the funny thing is: the aforementioned savvy professional that is under 200 pounds gets the negative comments from the do-gooders! The innocent bystanders that are clueless to 'that world' are the ones now mentioning, "God, he's about as scary as a bouquet of tulips..." :D:D

What I am trying to say guys is this: I am a tulip. I am sensitive, beautiful, I only bloom in the winter and I come in a wide array of colors.:)
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f390/ebbylyn/tulipssmall.jpg

Seriously, this VERY picture is on my desktop right now. :)

[Local Talent]

What I am trying to say guys is this: I am a tulip. I am sensitive, beautiful, I only bloom in the winter and I come in a wide array of colors.:)
Too funny! I agree with Mata-Leão on this (as most of us do) and on his assessment from his "sunglasses" thread as well:
I have seen bodyguards that feel the need to look like they have just had a very rough Colonoscopy...angry at the world! To the general public, this might seem like a scary person. But in my opinion, to the highly abled, motivated assailant - this type of bodyguard is not seen as MUCH of a threat when compared to the intelligent, focused, deeply alert and seasoned looking bodyguard.

Take for instance a pro boxer. Boxer "A" is in the corner aggressively bouncing around looking very mean and pounding his gloves together. He is doing everything he can to project the meanness of a rabid pit bull. He looks like he is experiencing a constant adrenaline dump. This morning he sprinkled PCP on his Wheaties.

NOW, to the regular attendant of the boxing fight who is unaware of the intricacies of fighting and physical battles, this would appear quite debilitating.

Boxer "B" is very calm. He is fully aware that his training regimen was highly efficient and his cardio for this fight is top notch. His stare at his opponent is one of confidence and focus. His movement is not exaggerated. There is nothing that he is doing in his corner to try to instill fear in his opponent. His training and ability will speak for themselves when necessary, just like it has in his previous fights.

To the savvy individual - Boxer "B" is actually the one that is very menacing. He is the one to be feared.

But in the interest of fairness, highly-recognizable celebs have to be protected from crowds of rowdy fans and the paparazzi. There's no trying to go low-profile, and in a lot of cases, the clients actually want to be seen shopping in exclusive stores or getting into the hippest clubs. So they have to have big, intimidating protectors. Those human mountains are also a status symbol for some celeb-wannabes - conspicuousness is a big plus in their case.
A few years back, I saw Sean Combs (or whatever his flavor-of-the-month moniker is) out shopping on Rodeo Drive. He was surrounded by a posse of heavies as described by Mata-Leão. Most of them rode in a blacked-out Escalade that shadowed his own vehicle. Typical, and there's nothing wrong with that. Different mission.

Executives and other lower-profile VIPs tend to employ people who look like they would belong in the corporate world. A female bodyguard could be a secretary, to the unsuspecting public. A trained eye may notice that the way she carries her attache case, there's probably a weapon and a kevlar panel in there... ;)
Those people are not trying to draw attention (it's sometimes vital to them if transporting valuables, for ex.) so their requirements are different.

Which brings us back to the photo thing. :)
As flash says, a client will want to know what his protector will look like, in most cases, and that's understandable. But the resume will usually tell them a lot about that.
I have begrudgingly complied and submitted a photo or stats to clients, but I consider the request bad form on their part.

ETA: On a past job, my client's (grown) daughter couldn't help but remark, "aren't security people supposed to be big and burly?", after her mother introduced me. "I'm the smart and skilled type", I replied point blank.

[Mata-Leão]

Local Talent: Executives and other lower-profile VIPs tend to employ people who look like they would belong in the corporate world. A female bodyguard could be a secretary, to the unsuspecting public. A trained eye may notice that the way she carries her attache case, there's probably a weapon and a kevlar panel in there...
Those people are not trying to draw attention (it's sometimes vital to them if transporting valuables, for ex.) so their requirements are different.


This is the class of job I appreciate. Some people are looking for discreet protection and that is the name of the game for me. I don't even stand with the classic bodyguard 'hands clasped in front' so I do not draw unwanted attention.

Most of the time I am not introduced when my client is greeting his investors or other new acquaintances - and that is my preference as well. I am almost always standing 45 degrees to his back left or back right and with a slight distance to not encourage a hand shake from 3rd parties.

Every now and then when we have met persons that he thinks would be uncomfortable with the idea of professional security in which he has introduced me as his 'best friend' without telling me previously - I have to quickly adapt to that style of presence and then walk forward and shake their hand. I try to keep my 360 degree vigilance to a more discreet method so as to confirm that I am simply there as a friend. I mean, it's his call. As long as he doesn't introduce me as his trans-gendered life partner, we're cool. :D

I had one client here for a short term night gig that used me when he went out partying. When he would hit the casino, I would sit next to him and he would pay for me to play with him. I would of course play very conservative so as to outlast his chips. Sometimes it is most tactful to blend in.

Local Talent: On a past job, my client's (grown) daughter couldn't help but remark, "aren't security people supposed to be big and burly?", after her mother introduced me. "I'm the smart and skilled type", I replied point blank.

That's hilarious. In a world with the option to REWIND, the chauvinistic bodyguard could have replied, "aren't women supposed to be barefoot and pregnant...?" :eek:

[Keetryarima]

I have some brand new factory 12s but nothing very aggressive. Mud Bugs are a good tire but you wont find any. They are getting very hard to find used.... Maybe can find some new. Go with Zillas. You know I run them and swear by them. Best all around tire Ive ever had.

[AMarine07]

I'm not a big guy at all, 5'10 160. im trying to get into EP do you think this will be a big deterrent in starting a career?

[Rock]

Generally, depending on the job, they may or may not require photos. I have had to submit some, but they were not taken professionally and they still worked. Demeanor, skills, experience and proper attitude will get you a job more than photos or stature...

[Geo]

Whatever firm you end up with, A good firm takes their own head shots of the their employees. We take a few different types. Suits, tac gear with full kit and a full length shot. Some clients have very specific people they want to work for them

[Rock]

tactical glamourshots Geo?

[Rock]

I should point out that in my post, the pics I sent were suit, business casual and casual as that is what the client requested. Geo was a bit more specific.

I find the tactical photos interesting but I am sure the clients vet resumes as well. Full length photos are a no brainer for obvious reasons. And, no sunglasses indoors gents...

[AMarine07]

But... But... then they can see my eyes?!!:eek:

[Geo]

Funny Rock...I know some of the guys do get glammed up. I think its the first time they combed their hair.....

[Geo]

Also guys. In the next week or so. I will post a general email about the firm I work for taking resumes. We do either plainclothes EP (both domestic/international), Security details (military guys know what I'm talking about) that includes maritime stuff as well. Since I am on here. I will be taking the resumes to an review before I take them to the CEO. Don't be obsessed with the CCW as I am not even though I have one. I look at the total background of the person. Also as with most firms. We don't have full-time positions but many of our jobs are long term. More information to follow. Also feel free to PM me. Regards. Geo

[Rock]

Cool, we look forward to hearing about it.

[AMarine07]

So... they'll need head shots? (photos)

[Geo]

Hey Guys,
I have gotten the go ahead to take resumes on here. Please send me a PM and I will give you the email address to send them too ( They will come to me). I will also elaborate on the firm. Please keep in mind even if I like your resume. I have a CEO and board of directors to deal with on possible job prospects. Please have your resume free of spelling errors, run on sentences etc. Either way I will keep you updated if the firm wants to do an interview. Further, whatever qualifications you have military, weapons schools. Please list them. We do an extensive background search so do not lie, fudge or embellish on your history. Especially military. As the CEO gets upset when we find out people did not accomplish what they say during their time in the military. Thanks. Geo