Actors and models use glossy headshots as their marketing tool of choice, often accompanied by a resume listing their experience, skills, and contact information. Professional photographers set different poses to demonstrate an actor’s range, and each shot should look natural. A headshot should be printed on glossy photo paper and show the actor’s entire face and shoulders in full or 3/4 profile.
In the same way that others might use business cards, an actor or model’s marketing tool of choice is a large, glossy photograph known as a “header.” It is often accompanied by her resume, which lists all previous acting experience, educational background, special skills, and contact information. After an audition, an actor may be asked to leave at least one copy of their photo with the casting director or producers. An actor without a headshot could soon be forgotten during the casting process, so having enough numbers on hand at all times is crucial.
When a photographer organizes a session with a client, it’s not just about taking a close-up shot of the actor’s face. A professional photographer will set different poses to demonstrate an actor’s range, or the actor may undergo several costume changes. Each finished shot should look natural, if perhaps a little glamorous. Producers or the casting director often use an actor’s photo for their own purposes, such as assessing a family resemblance between actors or measuring chemistry between leads. That’s why having an honest image is more important than having a glamorous one.
Quite often an actor will either print a current resume on the back of a head shot or carefully attach it with paper clips. It is typically no larger than a standard 8 x 10 cm (20.32 x 25.4 in) portrait photograph, which makes it easier for producers to collect all the photos they receive and store them in envelopes. For maximum effect, a headshot should be printed on glossy photo paper, not photocopied or laser printed on standard paper. If an actor provides only one, he should show his entire face and shoulders in full or 3/4 profile. The photo can feature a serious expression or a more relaxed, upbeat pose, but should always be an accurate representation of the actor’s natural features.
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