​Effective vs. Ineffective Headshots

Whether you're struggling to get consistent auditions or simply looking to refine your type and start going for super specific characters, our number one promise is that our headshots WILL get you more auditions.  All it takes is capturing the right headshot and then using it properly.

Click each photo to read about the Type represented.

​So what's the biggest difference between a headshot that gets more auditions... and one that doesn't?

Specificity.

Casting directors want extremely specific "Type" headshots (where you look perfect for the character), so they can easily see you in that role. The more generalized or "vague" your character Type is, the fewer auditions you'll get.

Worried about typecasting yourself? On The Process page, we show you how to capture "specificity" while actually expanding your range.

Getting More Auditions is About Specificity, but There's More...

It's about how you use that headshot. Check out some of our free guides:

• How to Get an Agent
• Demo Reels (or you can hire our sister company Actor Screener Shoot to create a reel for you)
• Actor Resumes (includes a free Google Docs template that works on any device)
• Or, see our full list of actor resources here.​

4 Keys to an Actor Headshot That Gets More Auditions

There's a BIG difference between a beautiful headshot and an effective headshot. For instance, headshots that make you look different than you do in real life can actually lead to fewer bookings.

​Below are 4 critical elements for headshots that not only get you more auditions, but also help you book more work:

• ​Key #1: The More Specific You Are, the Better – as counterintuitive as it sounds, a "versatile" headshot can actually create LESS audition opportunities because casting directors want someone who looks EXACTLY like the character they want (our Process page shows you a technique to find your Type in just 10 minutes – while EXPANDING your range instead of pigeonholing you)
• ​​Key #2: Your Headshot Must Make it Look Like You're Willing to Invest in Your Career – if your headshot is not up to date with current industry trends, casting directors will assume you're not actively working, meaning they'll call you in less frequently (here are the most up-to-date headshot trends of 2021-2022)
• ​Key #3: Your Expression Can Make Casting Directors Believe You're Experienced (or Inexperienced) – the wrong expression could cause casting directors to completely skip over your clips & resume, never even giving you a chance (this guide shows you numerous tricks to capturing fantastic expressions)
• ​Key #4: Not Doing Your Homework Before the Shoot Can Cost You – after shooting with less experienced photographers, some actors realize they need to do a reshoot because they forgot to ask themselves a few key questions before their session, resulting in headshots that did NOT help them get more auditions (the questions you should ask are listed on our Process page)

Happy Clients

Star Tapia - landed an agent and booked numerous co-star roles.

“I can't say thanks enough for my headshots! Without a doubt these photos played a role in me booking Co-Star roles, signing with my agent, and being called in to audition for Primetime TV shows, major films, and more.

When you're in a market like New York City, you have to "bring it." Working with City Headshots was easy and all my questions were answered prior to the shoot. I had time to change wardrobe, touch-up makeup, and I was given help with posing and expressions.

My photos turned out great, and as you can see, the proof is in the pudding!”

​
Read Star's story in more detail here.

Eric Michael Gillet - booked 12 films within just a few months

“For years, City Headshots has been my go-to place for character and type-specific headshots.

The team ‘hears’ you when you explain what you're trying to target in terms of roles and projects, and the images they capture have helped me book most of the work I’ve done in television and film for the past few years.

​It doesn’t hurt that they’re also professional, courteous, prompt, and truly fun people. ”


Read Eric Michael's story in more detail here.

Stephanie Terrero - signed with an agent and started making 30% of her income from acting.

"Not only was my shoot laid back and easy, But they helped capture the right expressions too. I got the exact commercial and legit shots I needed by discussing my career goals and going over what wardrobe would work best for each shot.

"I received amazing shots and used them to get signed by Dream Maker Talent within just a few months. It wouldn’t have happened if I hadn’t gotten my headshots done with you guys. Thank you!"

​
Read Stephanie's story in more detail here.

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​Updating Your Headshot? Update Your Reel Too.

Since you're focused on getting more auditions right now, it's probably a good time to also start thinking about your reel.

City Headshots partners with Actor Screener Shoot and Demo Reels NYC to offer actor reel production and editing services.

We offer combo packages for Headshot + Reel updates – just email us to ask.