castingheadshots

Casting headshots are portrait photographs used by actors when submitting to casting directors, agents, and production companies. They aim to present the performer’s current appearance and range, supporting an audition decision. Historically associated with printed 8x10s, today they are primarily digital assets used in online submissions and casting platforms, often paired with a résumé.

Appearance and composition: A typical casting headshot is a close-up or head-and-shoulders image. The subject often looks directly at the camera with a natural, neutral expression or a subtle smile. Hair and makeup should reflect everyday appearance, not heavy glamor. Retouching should be limited to color correction and removing obvious blemishes, preserving the actor’s true features.

Wardrobe and background: Clothing should be solid and free of logos or distracting patterns. Neutral, non-distracting backgrounds such as gray, white, or seamless tones help keep the focus on the face. Wardrobe choices should align with the kinds of roles the actor wants to be considered for and remain current with the performer’s actual look.

Technical and submission considerations: Digital headshots are uploaded to casting networks and emailed with resumes or audition packets. Common formats are high-resolution JPEG or PNG; maintain color accuracy and avoid heavy filters or digital altering. Ensure the image file is up to date with the actor’s current appearance, and obtain any necessary model releases.

Variants and rights: Many actors maintain multiple headshots to cover different looks. Minors require parental consent and ongoing rights management. Update headshots as the appearance changes to maintain accuracy for casting purposes. Retain original files and document releases to support usage in auditions and projects.