Tips for Actor Headshots

Written By John Diep

Overview

Main Goal of an Actor's Headshot: The primary purpose of an actor's headshot is to capture a clear, authentic representation of who you are as a performer. Casting directors, agents, and industry professionals use your headshot to get a first impression of your type, range, and suitability for a role. It should reflect your personality and provide a sense of the characters you can realistically portray.

Types of Actor Headshots:

  1. Commercial Headshots:

    • Typically bright, friendly, and approachable.

    • Designed to appeal to brands, advertisements, and general commercial work.

    • Aim for a warm, engaging expression.

  2. Theatrical Headshots:

    • More serious, focusing on dramatic, emotional, and character-driven roles.

    • Often darker in tone, highlighting a range of depth and intensity.

    • Neutral expressions are common but should still convey a strong sense of personality.

  3. Character/Specific Role Headshots:

    • Tailored to reflect a specific character type or niche (e.g., quirky, authoritative, villainous).

    • Useful if you’re targeting a specific kind of role, like a detective, villain, or romantic lead.

  4. Full Body or 3/4 Shots:

    • Some actors may want a full-body or 3/4 length shot, especially for modeling or action roles where physicality matters.

    • This can showcase your stature, build, or how you hold yourself.

Preparation Tips:

  • Know Your "Type":
    Understand what roles you're likely to be cast in. Are you more of a dramatic actor, a comedic one, or someone who can play romantic leads? This should influence the style and tone of your headshots.

  • Wardrobe:

    • Choose clothing that complements your type and role aspirations.

    • Stick to simple, solid colors that bring out your features. Avoid busy patterns or distracting logos.

    • For commercial headshots, opt for casual, clean attire. For theatrical, consider more serious or neutral options.

  • Hair and Makeup:

    • Keep hair and makeup simple and natural. It should enhance your features, not distract from them.

    • Consider how your hair would appear for specific roles; for instance, if you typically audition with a particular hairstyle, reflect that in your headshot.

  • Facial Expressions:

    • Practice various expressions in front of a mirror beforehand—smiling, neutral, intense, playful—depending on the headshots you’re aiming for.

    • Be subtle. Your expression should communicate personality but not overdo it.

    • (Don’t worry, I will help you with this during our session.)

  • Sleep and Hydration:

    • Get plenty of rest the night before to avoid looking tired.

    • Stay hydrated to keep your skin looking fresh and glowing.

  • Skincare:

    • Use minimal products if possible to avoid shine or caking, but a light foundation or powder may help reduce shine under studio lights.

    • Exfoliate and moisturize your skin a day or two before the shoot.

  • Work with a Photographer You Trust:

    • Communicate clearly with your photographer about your goals and the specific types of headshots you need.

  • Body Language and Posture:

    • Pay attention to your posture and stance. Even in headshots, the way you hold yourself can influence the overall impression.

    • Relax your shoulders and keep a natural, approachable posture.

    • (Again, don’t worry, I am here to help you with this!!)

  • Outdated Headshots:

    • Update your headshots regularly—at least every 1-2 years or after any significant change in appearance (e.g., hairstyle, weight change).

By preparing ahead of time and clearly communicating your goals, your headshots will serve as powerful tools to help you stand out to casting directors and agents, making it easier for them to envision you in their next project.

John Diep