One of the primary reasons why actors should regularly update their headshots is to present a current look. As actors grow and evolve in their careers, their appearance may change as well. There’s no good submitting an application for a casting call with current blonde hair when your headshots show a version of you with bright pink strands, is there? It is crucial to showcase the most accurate representation of oneself. By updating their headshots every one or two years, actors can ensure that they are presenting an authentic and current version of themselves to potential employers. Mark’s post on why your headshot should look like you makes the same case from the other side of the camera.
Showing range without losing yourself
Another crucial aspect of headshots is the opportunity to display range and versatility. Acting is a craft that requires actors to embody various characters and emotions, and their headshots should reflect that. Different looks, expressions, and moods can be conveyed through variations in wardrobe, lighting, and facial expressions. By working with a professional headshot photographer, such as Mark Wheelwright, actors can explore different styles and capture a range of emotions to showcase their versatility. Our guide to how many headshots actors need is worth reading before you decide how many looks to book.
Grace’s session
Recently, at Dock Street Studio, photographer Mark Wheelwright and actor Grace worked together on an actor headshot session. As Grace arrived, the session kicked off with a thorough consultation to determine her goals and the benefits she hoped to achieve from the shoot, with regards to her acting career and what sense of persona she would like to convey. Mark wanted to understand the essence of Grace’s acting persona and capture it in the photographs. To create a relaxed ambiance, drinks, refreshments, and chilled music were provided.
The shoot began against a plain black backdrop, with Grace in a simple black shirt. Mark guided Grace through a range of emotions and expressions, starting with a neutral look, then transitioning to intense and finally encouraging her to radiate a warm and engaging smile. Each shot captured a different facet of Grace’s talent and versatility, which is essential for actor headshots as you do not want to be limited!
Outfit changes played a significant role in adding diversity to the session. Grace effortlessly switched from the black shirt to a different top, accentuating her unique features and capturing different moods. Mark also made lighting adjustments to create subtle variations in atmosphere, enhancing Grace’s hair and adding depth to the images; this included dimming the lighting slightly to create a more ‘moody’ look. Because the studio shoots tethered, Grace could see each lighting change on the big screen as it happened.
To introduce further variation, different backdrops were incorporated. A light grey backdrop with a hint of purple added a touch of elegance and allowed Grace’s expressions to shine even brighter. Throughout these changes, Grace remained dynamic, showcasing different angles and expressions, from her side profile to a front-face view.
Choosing the final images
As the session drew to a close, a collection of photos was presented to Grace. These images would serve as the basis for her selection process. Grace now had the opportunity to carefully choose the best headshots that truly reflected her personality and met her professional goals. Once Grace made her selections, the chosen photos would be sent to Mark to undergo retouching and editing, ensuring they met the requirements for casting platforms such as Spotlight.
In conclusion, the headshot session at Dock Street Studio with photographer Mark Wheelwright and actor Grace was a success. The consultation, accompanied by drinks, refreshments, and relaxing music, set the stage for a productive and enjoyable shoot. With various outfit changes, lighting adjustments, and backdrops, Grace’s unique talent and versatility were captured in a collection of stunning photographs. Now, with the final selection in hand, Grace could confidently submit her professionally edited headshots to casting platforms, knowing they would make a lasting impression on industry professionals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which session gives me the range Grace got?
Grace’s session covered several outfits, two backdrops and a few lighting changes. That maps onto the In-Depth Portrait at £200 — an hour, five looks, ten retouched images. If you only need two looks, the Quick-Fire Spotlight at £150 covers it in 40 minutes.
How often should I update my headshots?
Every one to two years, or sooner if your hair, weight or casting bracket has changed. If the photo no longer looks like the person walking into the room, it is working against you.
What should I bring?
Two or three plain tops in solid colours — Grace’s black shirt is a good example — and a note of the roles you are going up for. Our guide to what to wear for headshots has the detail.
How long until I get the images?
Your gallery is supplied the same day and retouched selects are typically with you within 48 hours, sized for Spotlight and other casting platforms.
Where is the studio and how do I book?
Dock Street Studio, Unit 9, 30–38 Dock Street, Leeds LS10 1JF — central Leeds near Leeds Dock, a short walk from the train station, with parking on site. Book online or call and we will talk your casting through first.
Book your actor headshots in Leeds
Every session starts with the same consultation Grace had, so the looks we shoot are the ones your casting actually needs. Book online, email hello@dockstreetstudioleeds.co.uk, or call 0113 4400102.
About the author
Beya Milan
Actor • Studio assistant & guest writer, Dock Street Studio Leeds
Beya is a working actor based in Leeds who assists on sessions at Dock Street Studio and contributes guest articles drawing on her experience on both sides of the camera.
Shot, written and built by the Dock Street team
Every guide on this blog comes from the team at Dock Street Studio — Mark behind the camera with 18+ years' experience, Nicole on styling and lighting, Beya on video and bookings and Austin keeping the site fast and findable. If you'd rather have us do it than read about it, book a session or explore our photography services in Leeds.