Actor Headshot Session Share: Capturing Colin's Strong Expressions in His New Actor Headshots
I recently had the pleasure of working with actor Colin to refresh his headshot portfolio, and the results are truly remarkable. Colin came prepared with a clear idea of his casting type and brought an incredible range of expression to the camera, allowing us to capture several strong looks.
The images we created showcase his versatility—from a moody, intense expression perfect for dramatic roles, to an open, genuine smile that lands commercial auditions. His commitment to bringing a story to the lens is exactly what agents and casting directors look for, and these headshots are destined to get him noticed!
The Key Difference: Actor vs. Corporate Headshots
When professionals ask about the difference between a headshot for a CEO and one for an actor, the distinction is clear. They serve fundamentally different purposes in the professional world.
Actor Headshots
Primary Goal: To showcase emotional range, versatility, and specific casting types to potential directors and agents.
Expression: Requires a wide range of emotion: intense, thoughtful, friendly, quirky, or serious. The expression must tell a distinct story or hint at a character's inner life.
Wardrobe: Is chosen to match a variety of character types—for example, a simple sweater for the "best friend" or a plain shirt for the "everyday" person.
Style/Lighting: Often involves a mix of styles: dramatic and moody lighting for theatrical looks; bright and flattering lighting for commercial looks.
Corporate Headshots
Primary Goal: To convey trust, professionalism, and approachability—reinforcing the individual's or company's brand identity.
Expression: Generally focuses on a consistent, executive presence. Expressions are typically neutral, confident, and genuinely warm.
Wardrobe: Is chosen to match the industry and company brand—a crisp blazer for finance, or polished professional casual for tech.
Style/Lighting: Must be clean, consistent, and well-lit. Lighting is specifically designed to minimize shadows and create a clear, polished, and professional look.
Preparation: Tips for Your Strongest Acting Headshot Session
Colin's strong results came down to excellent preparation. If you’re preparing for your own session, here are a few essential tips to ensure you bring your best performance:
1. Know Your Types and Looks
Before you step in front of the camera, have a clear idea of the "types" you need to capture (e.g., young professional, villain, quirky friend). Discuss these with your photographer so they can tailor the lighting and background to each look.
2. Focus on Your Eyes (The Window to the Soul)
In acting, everything is in the eyes. Practice expressing emotions—joy, suspicion, empathy—using only your eyes in a mirror. Your photographer will guide you, but coming in with this muscle already warmed up makes a huge difference.
3. Wardrobe for Versatility
Layers are your best friend: Bring a few simple jackets, sweaters, or cardigans that can change the look quickly.
Simple is Best: Avoid busy patterns, logos, or bright whites that distract from your face. Stick to solid colors that complement your skin tone and eye colour.
Pressed and Ready: Ensure all wardrobe options are clean, ironed, and ready to wear—wrinkles are nearly impossible to remove perfectly in post-production!
4. The Audition Look
Remember, you need to look exactly like your headshot when you walk into the audition room. This means your hair and makeup should be your "best self" look—natural, subtle, and realistic. Don't go for a completely new hairstyle or heavy, dramatic makeup that you wouldn't wear to a callback.
Ready to create a portfolio of headshots that lands you the roles you want?
Contact Erin Clayton Photography to discuss your actor headshot session!
About Erin Clayton Photography
My name is Erin, and I’m a professional headshot photographer in Victoria, BC, with over 13 years of experience. I believe a great actor's headshot is more than just a photo—it's a showcase of your versatility. I work with actors to create a variety of looks, ensuring your headshots reflect your full range and potential. My goal is to make every session a collaborative journey where you feel empowered and confident. By focusing on your natural expression and emotional depth, I help you build a portfolio that truly represents you as an artist.