Everything you need to know about headshots

Your headshot is the first thing a casting director sees, it's what's going to make them
want to know more, look at your showreel, and perhaps explore a gut feeling that you're
a perfect fit for the role. It is absolutely essential in getting acting work as it conveys
your personality type, who you want to be as an actor and your level of professionalism.
The way you present yourself and are photographed can make you more appealing to
certain opportunities, which has led to the development of 2 main types of headshots:
Theatrical and Commercial.

• A theatrical headshot is an actor's portrait for film, TV, and Theatre roles, it tends to be posed more dramatically and aims to show emotional depth. It’s important to come across as a convincing performer. These are likely to be the headshots with threatening or emotional facial expressions; it's a clever idea to have these be the expressions you know you excel at portraying.
• A commercial headshot aims to promote a certain demographic for advertising. It's important to be aware of the demographic you are and how that can be advertised, these headshots are usually evenly lit, contain bright colours and positive facial expressions your aim is to come across as likeable.

The most important thing is to display yourself boldly and encompass how you want to
present yourself. For example, if your hair is curly and you sometimes straighten it, you
may want to ensure there is a photo of both; the same applies for facial hair. Your
headshot needs to look like you, avoid over editing or heavy makeup and always make
sure it is updated regularly to be accurate to what you look like now (this especially
applies to younger performers).
Across all types of headshots there tend to be common mistakes, here are the main
ones and how to avoid them:

1. An ‘Amateurish’ look.
A professional casting director will be looking for a professional headshot. Some red
flags that may steer them away are poor lighting, a distracting background and shots
being out of focus. Casting directors also tend to dislike the use of props or any
distracting elements. Your best course of action is to have your headshots
professionally taken by an experienced photographer, so all you will have to worry
about is presenting yourself. Furthermore, a clear investment in your headshot photos
suggests that you take acting seriously and are eager to be in the industry.

2. A lack of range.
It's vital to demonstrate that your ability to show range. It may be difficult to see how
you’d fit into a villainous, confrontational role if all of your headshots are warm and
comforting – or vice versa. Versatility is crucial to be prepared for any and all
opportunities that come your way!
4-6 headshots should be enough to demonstrate a variety of expressions, you also may
want to include a ¾ or full body photo on your profile and bring multiple changes of
neutral tone clothes to your shoot.

3. Seeming vulnerable or uncomfortable.
Casting directors are looking for someone comfortable in front of the camera, your
headshot is the first time you can display this. If you seem self-conscious or
apprehensive it may be assumed that this would also reflect on screen, limiting your
opportunities. This can be prevented by ensuring you are wearing clothing you feel
comfortable in, having pre-practiced positions and expressions and building a positive
relationship with your photographer to make you feel more at ease and confident.
Keeping track of every factor and potential issue may be difficult, this is why it might be
helpful to get a second opinion from someone you trust (or someone brutally honest).
Furthermore, if you have anyone available with industry experience it would be
extremely beneficial to hear their perspective or advice as they are likely to have an eye
for what casting directors are looking for.

Preparing, taking, and distributing your headshot can feel exhausting and daunting
however the doors and opportunities it will open make it all worthwhile. The look that
inspires a casting director scrolling through profiles could be the same look inspiring
audiences in your successful projects. With a combination of peer, professional and
self-guidance you are sure to make the perfect impression. 
Looking for the perfect headshots in Leeds? Book here!

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Author

Etana Hobbs