As an actor, your headshot is your first impression with every casting director who might hire you in the future. Before ever meeting you or seeing you perform, they’ll see this image of you, and it can be the difference between getting called in for an audition and getting passed over.
A strong, professional headshot for acting represents you at your best and communicates your personality, energy, and the types of roles for which you’re well-suited. Casting directors and agents rely on headshots to quickly assess whether an actor fits a particular character or production. However, we are all constantly changing, and that evolution can leave headshots looking outdated, no longer matching your look, or no longer aligning with the roles you are pursuing.
In this article, we’ll discuss how often you should update your acting headshots, key signs that it’s time for a refresh, and how keeping your headshots current can improve your chances of landing auditions.
General Rule of Thumb for Updating Professional Headshots for Acting
Now, some acting headshot photographers in Las Vegas might tell you that you need to be updating your portfolio, even as often as every three months. Truthfully, unless you’ve experienced a drastic change recently, updating your headshots every one to two years is a sufficient rhythm for most people. There are a few exceptions to that guideline, though. Keep reading to learn about a few situations that should have you scheduling a photoshoot with a photographer in Las Vegas within the next few weeks.
Key Signs It’s Time for a New Acting Headshot
Even if it’s been less than our one-to-two years guideline since your most recent acting headshots were taken, there are a few reasons you may still need to schedule another shoot. Your headshot needs to be in line with two things to successfully open the door for casting opportunities: your current look and the types of roles you’re aiming for. There are a number of reasons that one of these could shift suddenly.
Your Look Has Changed Significantly
If a casting director thinks you’d be a good fit for a role based on your headshot, but then you look completely different in-person, you’ll already be at a significant disadvantage in your audition. The director wanted the actor in the photo they saw, after all, and that person might not even exist anymore if your body has experienced a significant change, such as:
You’ve changed your hairstyle. Whether you’ve cut off long locks, dyed your hair a bold new color, or grown/shaved a beard, these changes can drastically impact your appearance. If you’re thinking of a change to your hair or grooming habits, I’d suggest timing that change to occur right before you’d regularly get your headshots updated anyway.
You’ve gained or lost weight. If your body shape has changed, it’s important to represent your current physique in your headshot. They might have a specific look they want for a role, and it’s helpful for them to be able to identify if you’ll fit that mold on camera.
Your face has changed due to aging. If you’re in a phase of life where your facial features are evolving rather quickly, you may want to consider updating your headshot anytime you notice a new change.
Your Current Headshot No Longer Matches Your Casting Type
As you grow in your professional career, your casting type may evolve. If your old headshot was taken when you primarily played young college students, for example, but now you’re auditioning for professional roles like doctors, lawyers, or parents, your headshot should reflect that shift.
Keep Your Acting Headshots Working for You
Remember: your acting headshot is an investment in your career. The more accurately aligned your headshot is with your current look and your career aspirations, the better odds you’ll have of booking roles! Reach out today to schedule a session to update your headshots.