Understanding Your Type
The Importance of an Actors Headshot
An actor's headshot is an essential marketing tool, offering casting directors an immediate sense of who you are, the roles you fit, and what makes you memorable. When creating headshots, it's important to capture the character types that align with the roles you're most likely to be cast in, which often depends on your gender identity, age range, and personality traits.
If you're unsure, seek feedback from trusted professionals—your agent, acting coach, or sometimes even close friends can help you identify roles that suit you best.Here's what your headshot should convey:
1. Authenticity
Your headshot should be a true representation of yourself, showing how you naturally appear in auditions. Avoid over-editing, heavy makeup, or dramatic lighting that alters your look.
2. Personality
Your unique personality should shine through. Whether you're approachable, intense, quirky, confident, or comedic, casting directors should sense your energy and vibe.
3. Emotional Range
A great headshot captures your ability to express emotions, often conveyed through your eyes. This is commonly referred to as "having a story in your eyes" or "presence."
4. Casting Type
Your headshot should give a sense of the roles you're suited for. Some examples include:
Commercial Headshot: Friendly, warm, and approachable—perfect for relatable roles.
Theatrical Headshot: Dramatic, with depth and seriousness—ideal for film or TV drama.
Character Headshot: Tailored to a specific type (e.g., villainous, quirky, authoritative).
5. Professionalism
A polished, high-quality headshot reflects your commitment to your craft. Avoid poor-quality photos (e.g., blurry or poorly lit) that could undermine your chances of getting cast.
6. Approachable Confidence
Your expression should strike a balance between confidence and warmth—neither too serious nor overly smiley (unless it's for a commercial role). A natural, relaxed look works best.
Popular Headshot Looks by Age Range
Different age ranges lend themselves to various character types. Here's a guide to help you identify your casting range:
Late Teens to Early Twenties
Girl/Guy Next Door: Best friend, Sidekick, Lovable loser, Love interest, Boho, Jock, Hipster, Gamer, Stoner/Surfer.
Edgy: Troubled teen, Emo/Goth, Bully, Cool hip kid, Hero/Heroine, Anti-hero/Heroine, Villain.
Young Professional: Student, Grad student, Intern/Assistant, Customer Service/Helpful Employee, Geeky Tech, Creative professional.
Mid-Twenties to Early Thirties
Girl/Guy Next Door: Best friend, Sidekick, Love interest, Fashionista, Hipster, Gamer, Stoner/Surfer, Fitness/Athletic, Outdoorsy, Western/Mid-western, Period look - 50’s, 60’s, 1800s..
Edgy: Hero/Heroine, Anti-hero/Heroine, Villain, Thug, Street smart, Prostitute, Victim, Military, Addict, Gangster, Biker, Urban hip.
Young Professional: Student/Grad Student, Intern/Office Guy, Secretary/Assistant, Creative professional, Geeky tech, New lawyer, FBI agent/CIA agent, Doctor/Nurse, Journalist, Activist, Detective/Cop/Security, Helpful employee, Waitress/Cook
Young Parent: Blue collar, Country Club, Suburban, BBQ, Boho
Thirties to Forties
Girl/Guy Next Door: Nosy neighbor, Girls'/Guys’ night out, Sex & the City type Fashionista, Love interest, Friend/Sidekick, Fitness, Outdoorsy, Western/Mid-western, Farmer, Period looks - 50’s, 60’s 1800s.
Edgy: Hero/Heroine, Anti-hero/Heroine, Villain, Thug, Street smart, Prostitute, Vicitm, Military, Drug dealer, Addict, Biker, Gangster, Urban hip.
Professional: Secretary/Assistant, Creative Professional, Office Employee, Tech Guru, Lawyer, FBI/CIA agent, Doctor/Nurse, Journalist, Scientist, Professor, News anchor, Therapist, Detective/Cop/Security, Waitress/Cook.
Parent: Blue collar, Country Club, Suburban, BBQ, Boho
Fifties and Up
Grandmother/Grandfather: Blue collar, Country club, Suburban, BBQ, bohemian, outdoorsy fit, Western/Mid-western, Farmer, Period look - 50’s, 60’s, 1800s
Edgy: Hero/Heroine, Anti-hero/Heroine, Villain, Victim, Addict, Mafia boss, Gang Leader
Professional: Secretary/Office professional, CEO, Judge, Lawyer, FBI/CIA director, Doctor/Nurse, Professor, Scientist, Detective/Cop/Security, News anchor, Therapist, Waitress/Cook.
Basics of a Good Headshot
Clear & Natural: Ensure your face is clearly visible with natural makeup and light retouching.
Eyes: Your eyes should convey confidence and approachability.
Background: A neutral or blurred background keeps the focus on you.
Wardrobe: Wear simple clothing that highlights your features without being distracting, that conveys the character type.
How Many Headshots Do You Need?
At a minimum, you should have:
One commercial headshot
One theatrical headshot
At least one additional look tailored to your type and range for other varied roles
Be sure to review the wardrobe guide for tips on how to prepare your look based on your type!
