So what are film headshots, and what makes them different than theatrical headshots and commercial headshots?
In this article, we'll dive deep on what goes into film headshots and I'll include plenty of examples. If you want to learn the basics acting headshots (not specifically about "film" headshots), I recommend checking out my Ultimate Guide to Acting Headshots article. Film HeadshotsSo what are Film Headshots? They're professional headshots of actors used to submit to film and television auditions! There are two primary types of headshots in the acting industry: Commercial Headshots and Legit Headshots. Commercial headshots are essentially big, smiling, fun headshots used to submit for commercial acting work, and legit headshots are typically more serious shots that are used to submit for film television, and even theater work. Film headshots are just another word for "Legit" headshots, and in this article we're going to discuss them in great depth.
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Why it's Good:
It's very relaxed, the colors and outfit are not distracting, and her expression captures your attention. "What is she thinking? Why does she look like that?" Additionally, the lighting is soft and you can see what she looks like easily. The only note I would give is to photoshop out the earring, as generally jewelry is not recommended for acting headshots. |
Why it's Not So Good:
Technically, this is a fantastic headshot. You get a clear sense of the Type that she plays (Athlete) and her expression is approachable. The only reason she should not use this shot is that her jacket is distracting. The writing on it should have been removed with Photoshop, because right now, it draws too much attention away from her face. But everything else about this shot is wonderful! |
Why it's good:
The expression is strong, calm, and ever-so-slightly approachable, which captures the actor's brand perfectly. The entire focus of the shot is on his face, and nothing distracts from that. It's a simple, straightforward, professional film headshot. |
Why it's Not So Good:
If this were being used as a Film or "legit" headshot, could you guess why it's not good? Well, the lighting and backdrop are fine, but the big smile makes it not work as a film headshot! Film headshots are generally meant to be more serious in tone, and this shot is clearly a "commercial" headshot, and should only be used for that purpose. |
To see more examples of Good vs. Bad headshots, including shots with unprofessional backgrounds and lighting, check out my Ultimate Guide to Actor Headshots and Bad Headshots vs. Good Headshots.
Film Headshots vs. Theatrical Headshots
Is there a difference between film and theatrical headshots? Not really.
Back in the early 2000's, it was common to shoot film headshots horizontally and theater headshots vertically, but that trend went out of style around 2012, and the industry has shifted back to vertical-only headshots for now.
Here's an example of a horizontal headshot that could have been considered a "film" headshot:
Back in the early 2000's, it was common to shoot film headshots horizontally and theater headshots vertically, but that trend went out of style around 2012, and the industry has shifted back to vertical-only headshots for now.
Here's an example of a horizontal headshot that could have been considered a "film" headshot:
Although it's a nice shot and works well on a webpage like this blog post, casting directors dislike horizontal shots because of two main reasons:
- They don't work well on the back of resumes. When attaching and stapling your resume to the back of your headshot, a vertical shot works better because you can simply flip the shot over and see your resume. With a horizontal headshot, you have to flip AND rotate the shot, which is an extra step that casting directors don't want to do a thousand times a day.
- They don't upload properly for most online casting websites. Most casting sites like Backstage and Actor's Access are formatted for vertical headshots, and horizontal ones either need to be cropped or they can get squeezed and distorted.
For the two reasons above, vertical shots are almost always better. Film and theater headshots are exactly the same.
Some Final Information
As we get ready to wrap up this article, here are a few final things to keep in mind about film headshots:
If you want to dive much deeper on what goes into great headshots, I highly recommend taking a look at my Ultimate Guide to Actor Headshots, where I outline everything you need to know. You can also check out this bonus video:
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Expressions: "Can you smile in theatrical headshots?" Even though you should aim to focus primarily on serious expressions for film headshots and friendly expressions for commercial headshots, you can still include a range of expressions for each, meaning a film headshot can have a subtle smile (as long as it's showing confidence), and a commercial headshot can have a slightly less big smile (as long as it's showing approachability). You should also keep in mind how your eyes look on camera. A very slight squint, almost as though you're thinking about something or trying to see better in the distance, can help make your eyes appear more alive and interesting in the shot. But feel free to play around with a wide variety of expressions throughout your shoot to get the most options!
- If you want to learn way more about expressions and how to capture the different ones needed for acting headshots, I highly recommend reading my free eBook called Upgrade Your Headshot from $400 to $1,400 (without spending a dime more).
- Hair & Makeup: Makeup is not required for headshots but can be beneficial, especially for women. Natural makeup is best because casting directors want to know what you look like in real life. Be sure you can replicate your makeup as closely as possible whenever you go into an audition because you need to show up looking exactly like your headshot!
- Wardrobe: Wear what you love, as long as it supports your Types. It's a good idea to wear solid colors because patterns and logos are distracting. Layers can add more depth, so an open jackets is a great addition to outfits. You don't need to worry about your pants or shoes since they won't be in the frame. Most colors work fine, but you should stay away from pale colors like white, light gray, light pink, etc., if possible because they can look too bright on camera.
If you want to dive much deeper on what goes into great headshots, I highly recommend taking a look at my Ultimate Guide to Actor Headshots, where I outline everything you need to know. You can also check out this bonus video:
Enjoyed this article?
Book more work by thinking "Outside the Industry."
Understanding film headshots in depth is just one part of growing your acting career.
As someone who has worked with people in thousands of industries (through my headshot business), I've been able to take growth strategies that work for businesses and apply them directly to actors – to help them grow their careers faster than most would think possible (examples: one of my clients landed his first-ever Broadway role in just 4 weeks of working with me, and a brand-new actress signed with a high-level agent in just six weeks of working with me).
I'd like to invite you to my free insider newsletter where I share my best material, including:
Download my free Actor's Toolkit to get started and you'll hear from me a few times a week with unique "outside the industry" strategies. I promise they'll help you build a career you're truly proud of.
As someone who has worked with people in thousands of industries (through my headshot business), I've been able to take growth strategies that work for businesses and apply them directly to actors – to help them grow their careers faster than most would think possible (examples: one of my clients landed his first-ever Broadway role in just 4 weeks of working with me, and a brand-new actress signed with a high-level agent in just six weeks of working with me).
I'd like to invite you to my free insider newsletter where I share my best material, including:
- How to network easily and authentically with casting directors – even if you hate self-promotion.
- How to find your Type and Brand in just 18 minutes (it doesn't require awkwardly asking lots of random people for feedback)
- How to find a hardworking and reliable agent – even if you don't have a strong resume or showreel
- And much more...
Download my free Actor's Toolkit to get started and you'll hear from me a few times a week with unique "outside the industry" strategies. I promise they'll help you build a career you're truly proud of.
Martin Bentsen (author of this guide) is an actor marketing coach who uses “outside the industry” thinking to help actors book more work. He’s helped over 6,000 actors with their careers and actor headshots since 2009 and his photography studio City Headshots is ranked #1 on Yelp. He’s spoken at NYU, The New England Theater Conference, The Actor’s Green Room, and other venues. Want to book more acting work by thinking different? Start with his free Actor’s Toolkit to create new opportunities right away, or visit his website at www.martinbentsen.com. |
Some Additional Q&A
How Much Do Good Headshots Cost?
In general, you can expect to pay anywhere from $150 to $800 for them, depending on where you are in the country and how many looks you need. Avoid spending less than $150 because most photographers that charge super cheap rates do so because they don't do great work.
The more expensive the photographer (in general), the better your experience will be and the more usable shots you'll get. That being said, avoid spending more than $800 because once you get to such levels, you'll find that you're just paying for the photographer's name (some photographers are really great at networking or have just been in the industry for decades).
A good rate to aim for is between $350 and $550 for a two-look actor headshot session.
Learn more about headshot cost breakdown here.
The more expensive the photographer (in general), the better your experience will be and the more usable shots you'll get. That being said, avoid spending more than $800 because once you get to such levels, you'll find that you're just paying for the photographer's name (some photographers are really great at networking or have just been in the industry for decades).
A good rate to aim for is between $350 and $550 for a two-look actor headshot session.
Learn more about headshot cost breakdown here.
Can You Take Your Own Headshots for Acting?
It's generally not advised because casting directors won't take you seriously as an actor if you're not using a high-end, professional headshot. But if you're only looking to audition for student films or small unpaid productions, you can definitely get away with using an unprofessional headshot!
Learn how to take your own headshot here.
Learn how to take your own headshot here.
What is a Headshot in Film?
Actor headshots are the single most important marketing material you'll need to start booking acting jobs. They show casting directors what you look like so they can decide whether to bring you (or someone else) in for the audition.
Fair or unfair, most actors get hired not just for their acting ability, but because of what they look like! If a production needs an Asian person, they'll never consider you if you're white (it's probably the only industry where you can legitimately discriminate against people based on what they look like without getting into trouble).
It's the job of the casting director (who is hired by a production company) to find the right actors for the part. They sift through thousands of actor headshots every day to find people who look perfect for the role, and then they bring them into the audition room.
Fair or unfair, most actors get hired not just for their acting ability, but because of what they look like! If a production needs an Asian person, they'll never consider you if you're white (it's probably the only industry where you can legitimately discriminate against people based on what they look like without getting into trouble).
It's the job of the casting director (who is hired by a production company) to find the right actors for the part. They sift through thousands of actor headshots every day to find people who look perfect for the role, and then they bring them into the audition room.
Further Reading:
If you enjoyed this article (Film Headshots vs. Commercial Headshots), you might be interested in some of these:
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