Actor Headshots vs Model Headshots: Key Differences
If you’re building your portfolio, “Actor Headshots vs Model Headshots: Key Differences” is one of the most common questions I hear as a professional photographer working in Philadelphia and London. While both types of headshots aim to open doors, the goals, style, and expectations for each are surprisingly different.
As someone who coaches both actors and models in my studio, I’m here to break down what sets each headshot apart—and help you make smart choices when it’s time to book your session.
What Is an Actor Headshot?
Actor headshots are all about authenticity and emotional range. Casting directors want to see you—your essence, your versatility, and your ability to fit a variety of roles. This means:
Clean, natural lighting (studio or soft daylight)
True-to-life colors (no heavy filters or stylized edits)
Minimal retouching—skin is real, personality shines
Emphasis on EYES and expression (sincere, approachable, and real)
Cropped tightly (usually shoulders up)
Simple clothing (solid colors, neutrals, classic fits)
A variety of expressions: confident, thoughtful, open—sometimes variations for drama vs. comedic roles
Pro tip: For actors, casting teams are looking for someone who could be anyone. Your headshot needs to show your depth, not just your look.
What Is a Model Headshot?
Model headshots, often called “digitals” or “polaroids,” are all about marketability and “blank canvas” potential. Agencies and clients want to see your bone structure, skin, and how you photograph under different lighting, knowing they’ll style or cast you for many roles.
Crisp, bright lighting emphasizing bone structure and skin
Minimal makeup, hair back or natural, neutral expressions
Very little to no retouching (agencies actually prefer unedited images)
Full face and profile angles, plus clean half and full-body shots
Standard black tank, tee, or bodysuit with jeans or leggings
Eyes direct to camera; neutral or gentle confidence (less “smile,” more “smize”)
Little to no jewelry or busy prints
Usually shot against a plain studio wall or paper backdrop
Pro tip: For models, your portfolio should look like a fresh canvas—agencies want to imagine you as a chameleon, fitting many looks and styles.
Key Differences: Actor vs Model Headshots
Purpose:
Actors: Reveal personality, emotion, and range for roles.
Models: Show structure, proportions, and blank-slate quality.
Expression:
Actors: Sincere, emotive, sometimes varied expressions.
Models: Calm, neutral, minimal expression, more about angles than emotions.
Styling:
Actors: Subtly styled to suggest “type,” but avoid trends or distractions.
Models: Super-simple, skin and features front and center—basic wardrobe, minimal makeup.
Edits:
Actors: Gently retouched—real skin texture remains.
Models: Almost no retouching. Blemishes may stay.
Image Types:
Actors: Mostly head and shoulders, sometimes 3/4 shots.
Models: Headshot, profile, half-body, full-body—whole range to show proportions.
How I Approach Each Session
For actors, we shoot a relaxed, collaborative hour with breaks to play and try different expressions, outfits, and lighting. My job is to bring out the unique spark you bring to the screen or stage.
For models, it’s all about crisp light, fluid direction, and capturing you in your purest form—photos a client or agency could style for any brief.
Regardless of your field, I provide all the guidance you need on wardrobe, hair, and posing, and deliver images that meet agency specs every time.
Ready to Book? Let’s Create What You Need
Whether you’re chasing your first role or your next campaign, it pays to get your headshots right. Reach out for a consult and let’s build your perfect actor or model portfolio—right here in Philadelphia, London, or wherever your journey takes you.
