A lot of actors choose their headshots based on one thing:
Which photo they think they look best in.
And listen — wanting to look good is human.
We all want to feel confident in how we show up.
But a headshot is not about looking like your cutest or most attractive self.
A headshot is a marketing tool.
It’s meant to:
- Signal your brand
- Clarify your casting
- Communicate your essence
- And help casting place you quickly and correctly
So the goal isn’t “What photo is prettiest?”
The goal is:
Which photo tells the truth about who I am and the stories I belong in?
That’s the shot that books.
Step 1: Know What You Actually Want to Be Called In For
If you don’t know what roles you want, you’ll pick photos at random.
Ask yourself:
- What worlds feel natural to me?
- What dynamics I am usually pulled toward?
- When people describe me, what words come up?
Do you tend to show up in stories as:
- The steady one?
- The scrappy fighter?
- The quiet observer?
- The charming wildcard?
- The sensitive soul?
- The loyal protector?
Your headshot should lead with that truth.
Step 2: Choose the Image Where the Eyes Are Doing the Heavy Lifting
This is the key.
Not the smile.
Not the jawline.
Not the glam.
The eyes.
When the eyes are alive, thoughtful, grounded, focused, or open — the headshot has power.
When the eyes are performing, posing, or trying… the headshot goes flat.
Look for:
- Inner life
- Stillness with depth
- Emotional presence
You’ll feel it more than you can articulate it.
Step 3: Match Wardrobe to Your Brand — Not to Fashion
Your clothes should support the energy you’re communicating.
Examples:
| Brand Energy | Clothing That Supports It |
|---|---|
| Soft, warm, empathetic | Earth tones, knits, relaxed fit |
| Precise, controlled, sharp | Structured clothing, clean lines |
| Playful, witty, charismatic | Color pops, textures, effortless layers |
| Intense, internal, grounded | Dark tones, minimal styling, simplicity |
Wardrobe should underline, not distract.
Step 4: Ignore What Your Friends Think
Your friends will choose the “cutest” shot.
Casting directors will choose the true one.
You’re not selling photos to your friends.
You’re selling your presence to the industry.
Step 5: Build a Small, Strong Portfolio
You don’t need 12 looks.
You need two things:
- Your Anchor Shot
The image that captures your core essence. - Your Range Shot
A subtle shift that shows a secondary flavor you can authentically inhabit.
That’s all.
When you try to be everything, you end up being nothing memorable.
If You Want Support Choosing Your Shots
I help actors review and select their final headshots to make sure the images:
- Support the roles you want
- Reflect your brand
- Read clearly to casting
- Feel grounded and true
This is built into my Branding Consultation.
Branding Consultation (45 minutes)
- Standard rate: $175
- If you book a Headshot Package: Add it for $100 ($75 savings)
Email to book: Jon@sovanephotography.com
No pressure — just clarity.
Closing Thought
The right headshot doesn’t make you look impressive.
The right headshot makes you look recognizable.
And that’s what books.