Actor headshot examples by type, age range, and market

Why examples matter

Looking at examples is one of the fastest ways to understand what works. But here's the thing: most actors look at headshots without knowing what to look for. They see a "good" photo and try to copy the surface (the lighting, the angle, the smile) without understanding why it actually works.

This guide breaks down what makes different types of headshots effective, organized by the categories casting actually uses.

Commercial headshot examples

Commercial headshots share common DNA: warmth, accessibility, and clarity. Within that, there's range.

The "friendly neighbor" look

This is the most versatile commercial look. It says: "I'm trustworthy, likable, and easy to work with."

What to notice: a genuine smile that reaches the eyes (not forced or posed), open body language even in a close crop, solid flattering colors (often a soft blue, green, or warm neutral), even bright lighting with minimal shadows, and direct eye contact with the camera.

This look books national commercials, corporate work, and pharmaceutical ads. If you could be in a commercial for literally anything, this is your baseline.

The "fun friend" look

More energy, more personality. Still friendly, but with an edge of humor or playfulness.

What to notice: bigger smile, more life in the expression, brighter colors in wardrobe (but still solid, not patterned), slightly more casual styling, same even lighting but maybe a touch warmer.

This books comedy commercials, sitcom co-stars, and brands targeting younger demographics.

The "professional" look

For actors who submit for upscale commercials. Financial services, luxury brands, business-to-business content.

What to notice: confident but not aggressive expression, more polished wardrobe (blazers, structured tops), often a bit more mature or sophisticated in vibe, same clean lighting principles.

This look says: "I'm someone you'd trust with important things."

Theatrical headshot examples

Theatrical headshots prioritize depth over accessibility. They suggest character rather than pitch warmth.

The "grounded neutral" look

The workhorse theatrical headshot. Calm, present, specific.

What to notice: neutral expression (not smiling, but not angry either), eyes that feel alive and engaged, darker more muted wardrobe tones, directional lighting creating some dimension, a sense of inner life or thought.

This books drama, indie film, and theater. It says: "I have range. I can be shaped."

The "intensity" look

More edge, more specificity. For roles that require something harder to define.

What to notice: strong eye contact with a sense of weight, minimal or no smile, darker styling (possibly textured fabrics), more dramatic lighting (but not gimmicky), a feeling that there's a story here.

This books darker dramas, thrillers, and character roles. Use with caution though. It's not for everything.

The "vulnerable" look

Softer than the neutral, but still theatrical. Open without being commercial.

What to notice: soft expression (possibly a hint of a smile), warmer but still grounded styling, softer lighting with fewer harsh contrasts, a sense of approachability but depth beneath.

This books romantic leads, coming-of-age stories, and roles requiring emotional accessibility.

Should I have different headshots depending on my age?

Your headshot approach should evolve as you age, because the roles change.

In your 20s, both commercial and theatrical options are essential. You're figuring out your brand, so more looks and variations are common. Commercial often leans "young and fun" while theatrical can explore range more freely.

In your 30s, types start to solidify. Professionals, parents, and leads become more common casting categories. Commercial looks may shift toward "reliable adult." Theatrical looks can deepen in specificity.

In your 40s and beyond, character work becomes more prominent. Headshots should emphasize what makes you distinctive. There's less pressure to be generic, more value in specificity. Authority, wisdom, and lived experience become assets.

At any age, your headshot should represent how you'll actually walk into the audition room today, not how you looked five years ago.

Market differences by coast

Major markets have subtle differences in what's expected.

Los Angeles tends to favor slightly more polished, commercial-leaning shots. Television and film dominate, so cinematic lighting works. More looks are expected (actors often have multiple headshots).

New York leans more theatrical. Theater and indie film influence aesthetic preferences. Slightly grittier, more character-driven looks can fly. But you still need commercial shots for advertising work.

Regional markets tend to favor commercial looks since there's more local and regional advertising work. Theatrical can still matter, especially for film incentive states, but there's less pressure for multiple looks. One strong commercial can go far.

Self-tape era considerations

With self-tapes now standard, your headshot needs to match what casting sees on video. If your headshot looks nothing like how you present on camera at home, you'll confuse casting directors. Consistency matters.

How to use this information

Don't try to replicate specific photos. Instead, identify which category you fall into most naturally. Study what makes those examples effective. Bring that understanding to your next headshot session. Ask your photographer to help you nail the essentials of that look.

Your headshot should feel like you, but the right version of you for the roles you're pursuing. Examples help you see what "right" looks like in practice.

The takeaway

Examples are reference points for understanding what works. Study them, understand them, then bring your own specificity to the shoot. That's how you get a headshot that books.