Your headshot is your first audition. Before you ever step into a casting room, your image has already been evaluated by casting directors deciding who looks ready to work. In competitive markets like NYC and Northern New Jersey, actors need headshots that are clear, current, and strategically aligned with the roles they want to book.

Most working actors submit two types of headshots: commercial and theatrical. Understanding the difference- and having both- dramatically improves your chances of getting called in. Here’s what actually matters.

What Is a Commercial Headshot?

A commercial headshot is designed to show versatility and approachability. Casting directors want to quickly see someone who could fit naturally into everyday roles- coworkers, neighbors, professionals, or lifestyle scenarios.

Key elements of a strong commercial headshot:

• Neutral background (gray, white, or soft tones)
• Simple, solid-color wardrobe
• Natural, relaxed expression
• Sharp focus on the eyes

Commercial headshots are commonly used for TV commercials, corporate videos, lifestyle campaigns, and general film roles where relatability matters more than dramatic intensity. The goal is simple: casting directors need to see you fitting into their world, not standing out from it.

What Is a Theatrical Headshot?

A theatrical headshot shows personality, depth, and presence. These images are more intentional in mood, lighting, and color, helping casting directors understand your range and emotional capability.

Key elements of a strong theatrical headshot:

• Intentional background color or tonal contrast
• Dimensional, editorial lighting
• Confident, authentic expression
• Wardrobe that adds character without distraction

Theatrical headshots are typically submitted for stage productions, dramatic film roles, and character-focused casting calls. Unlike commercial work, theatrical headshots can show more edge, intensity, and artistic intention.

Do Actors Need Both?

Yes. Most agents and casting directors expect actors to maintain both a commercial and theatrical headshot.

• Commercial roles require clean, versatile imagery
• Theatrical roles require personality and emotional range
• Having both allows agents to submit you for a wider range of opportunities

Think of headshots as tools. You submit the one that best matches the role- not the same image for everything.

When to Use Which Headshot

Commercial submissions:
Approachable, open expression, brighter feel. Think lifestyle campaigns, TV spots, corporate work, relatable characters. If the breakdown says “real people” or “everyman/everywoman,” this is your shot.

Theatrical submissions:
Grounded, confident, more depth and contrast. Think stage productions, dramatic film roles, character-driven casting. If the breakdown mentions “intensity,” “gravitas,” or specific character traits, lean theatrical.

If you’re unsure:
Submit the headshot that matches the role’s tone- not your favorite photo. Your agent knows which one opens the door. When in doubt, commercial tends to cast wider.

What Casting Directors Actually Look For

After 30+ years photographing professionals and performers, these principles stay consistent:

Sharp, clear eyes
If the eyes aren’t sharp, the headshot doesn’t work. Period.

Accurate representation
Your headshot should look like you today. If your look has changed, your headshot needs to change.

Natural expression
Casting directors want “ready to work,” not forced smiles or model poses. You don’t need to perform for the camera. You need to look like someone a director can put on set today.

Minimal retouching
Light skin cleanup is fine. Over-retouching kills trust.

Simple wardrobe choices
Solid colors photograph best. Busy patterns and logos distract from your face.

How to Prepare for Actor Headshots

Wardrobe:
Bring 3–4 solid-color tops. Neutral tones for commercial looks, richer colors for theatrical looks. Most actors overthink this- a well-fitted solid tee or simple blouse works better than anything with texture, logos, or busy details.

Hair & Makeup:
Natural and polished. Your headshot should look like your best, most confident audition day- not overly styled. Skip the heavy contouring or dramatic hair changes. If you wouldn’t walk into an audition looking like that, don’t photograph it.

Mindset:
Relaxed. Present. Trust the process. The strongest headshots come from actors who feel comfortable, not performative. If you’re trying to “give face” or manufacture intensity, it shows- and not in a good way.

Actor Headshots in NYC & Northern NJ

I’ve spent over 30 years photographing professionals who need images that open doors. Actor headshots are approached with the same precision, calm direction, and consistency as executive portraits and corporate headshots– because the stakes are just as high.

What you get:

• Studio-based actor headshots in NYC and Northern NJ
• Commercial + theatrical looks in one session
• Same-week delivery (typically 48-hour proofs, one-week finals)
• Calm, guided direction (no awkward posing)
• Professional headshots that match current industry standards

The process is straightforward. We shoot both looks in one session, review the best options together, and you walk out knowing exactly what’s getting submitted. Your headshot isn’t just a photo. It’s what gets you in the room.

Ready to Book Your Actor Headshot Session?

Sessions start at $350 for commercial and theatrical actor headshots in NYC and Northern New Jersey.

Book your session at alexkaplanphoto.com or call 917-992-9097.

Serving actors across NYC, Northern New Jersey, Bergen County, and the surrounding areas.