When it comes to making it in the industry, a good headshot can make or break your chances of being seen. You can learn a lot from what’s been considered a quality headshot over the years—just look at these five A-listers’ early shots. That said, if you are curious about what an effective headshot looks like in action, particularly if you are not at the same level as Meryl Streep or the Rock (yet!), we’ve got a few examples for you here. Keep reading to learn exactly how to achieve a quality image that gets casting directors to take notice.
Perfect your pose
IMAGE CREDIT: David J. Crewe
When it comes to taking a good headshot, it’s vital that it looks like you invested the time (and money) in finding the right photographer, clothes, and pose to showcase yourself. Casting directors and their assistants will make snap judgments based on your headshot. This image of actor Sierra Nowak works so well because it gives us all of those things—but the best part of it is her pose. It’s unique yet still effortless. Stand out, but don’t distract from your looks.
Find the right expression(s)
When it comes to your headshot, choosing an expression may seem inconsequential, but it’s actually vital. Not all expressions are created equal, as each one immediately broadcasts the type of role you’re fit for. A scowl screams menacing villain, while a huge smile hints at comedy. And if both feel at home on your face, then that’s range! This image of Charlotte Ritchie successfully shows off her dramatic gravitas and the sort of smoldering sensuality that made her stand out in roles for “Call the Midwife” and “You.”
Consider the clothes
Do the clothes make the actor or is it the other way around? Picking out a wardrobe that complements your personality is no easy feat. In her 2023 headshot, “Saturday Night Live” cast member Chloe Fineman showcases a warm and familiar expression, but it’s her choice of overalls and a brightly colored striped shirt that really sells her big personality, quirkiness, and youthful energy.
Keep it natural
IMAGE CREDIT: David J. Crewe
Here’s the challenge: Your headshot should look professional but not overdone. Good lighting, a minimal background, and a quality camera and lens will do the trick. Don’t go overboard with filters, effects, costumes, or settings. Make sure your natural self shines through, because that’s who is booking the job. Utilizing a “no-makeup makeup” look and keeping all retouching to a minimum—like the headshot here—can help.
Find your confidence
This shot of “Adolescence” star Owen Cooper is the definition of quiet confidence. Perhaps unassuming at first glance, there’s an intensity and calmness that’s palpable in this image. His look is not overstyled, his pose is powerful, and even without cracking a smile, any casting department would look at this photo and be able to project a whole host of potential roles onto him.
Remember the eyes
It may seem obvious to some, but a good headshot will show off your eyes to ensure the casting director can connect with you. Here is a great example: Edmond Laryea’s eyes give off a humanity and warmth that any casting department would be drawn to—which is probably why the actor stays booked and busy.
Whatever you choose to do, it’s key that the final product feels authentic. This also means you should stay away from AI. Generating an image of yourself with the software may seem like a great, cheap alternative to hiring a photographer, but these images reek of, well, artificiality and cheapness. They also, frankly, do not look like you in a real, human way—they’re idealized, and that is not what a director will get from you onscreen. Besides, SAG-AFTRA has worked hard to protect actors’ likenesses from being replaced with artificial intelligence technology, so why would you want to ruin that by feeding the machine?