Actor Headshots Vs. Modeling Headshots Vs. Business Headshots

Business Headshots vs. Modeling Headshots vs. Actor Headshots: Why They’re Not Interchangeable

Headshots are essential in many industries, but the type of headshot you need depends on your career. Whether you’re in business, modeling, or acting, each headshot serves a different purpose. Let’s break down the differences, focusing mainly on actor headshots.

Actor Headshots: Authentic, Grounded, and Versatile

Actor headshots are the most specific, tailored to casting calls, auditions, and agency submissions. These headshots need to look exactly like you both in terms of appearance and personality. Casting directors want to see who you are right now, not a version of you with heavy makeup or a dramatic pose. You should look like a relatable person who can be in TV show.

Key Traits:

• Expression & Energy: Actor headshots should reflect your true self, showcasing a variety of emotions that could be used in different roles. Whether it’s serious, playful, or neutral, the goal is to look like you always do while still conveying a message to the viewer that you can play different roles.

• Realistic & Industry-Aligned: It’s important to align with industry trends especially with SAG-AFTRA agencies. No excessive makeup or costumes; the focus should be on your face, eyes, and a subtle, approachable expression. Wardrobe plays an important part..I'll talk about that in another blog.

• Portrait Orientation: These headshots are typically taken in a portrait style, focusing on your head and shoulders. Soft, flattering lighting enhances your features, but without dramatic shadows or harsh contrasts. Your headshot should be as natural as possible.

The aim is for casting directors to see you and immediately think, "This is the person for the role." That's why actor headshots must be grounded and realistic, highlighting your ability to portray a range of characters while remaining true to who you are.

Actor Headshots by Mackenzie Tyra Clark

Business Headshots: Polished and Professional

Business headshots are used in corporate settings on LinkedIn and company websites. These images are all about presenting professionalism, with neutral expressions, business attire, and simple backgrounds. They must convey approachability and competence, which is why they’re much more formal than actor headshots. Fun things about actors, we do NOT have to portray competence in our headshots. 🙃 It's nice to be intelligent, but not required to portray for actor headshots lol! (Unless you want to portray a strong business woman/man.)

Business Headshots by Mackenzie Tyra Clark

Modeling Headshots: Bold and Dramatic

Modeling headshots focus on the model’s ability to create different looks for fashion, print, and editorial work. These shots can be dramatic, with high-fashion outfits, creative lighting, and bold makeup. Modeling headshots allow for more artistic freedom and expressiveness than both business and actor headshots, aiming to captivate and showcase versatility.

Beauty Headshots by Mackenzie Tyra Clark

Honestly....

While business and modeling headshots focus on specific industries and purposes, actor headshots are designed to showcase your authentic self, highlighting your natural features and emotional range. They need to reflect who you are today, with a neutral, flexible, and grounded look that fits within industry standards. Always ensure your headshot aligns with your profession to make the right impression.