How often should actors update their headshots?

The short answer

Update your headshots when you no longer look like your headshots. For most actors, that means every one to three years. However, personally, it depends on what changes - when I got a perm and drastically changed my haircut, I realized it was time for a new headshot. It absolutely varies from person to person.

Update immediately when...

Significant weight change. If you've gained or lost enough weight that your face shape has visibly changed, your headshot is now inaccurate. In all the interviews we've done with casting directors, the most important thing is that your headshot actually looks like you. If that's not the case with weight changes, it's time to update!

Major haircut or color change. Going from long to short, brown to blonde, natural to shaved: these would require updates. If someone who knows you would do a double-take at your new hair, it's time to update your headshots!

Aging that shows. This is the hardest one to assess honestly. To get an accurate answer, ask someone who knows you and is willing to tell you the truth. It's really easy to look in the mirror everyday and think you look the same, but comparing across years and years of small changes, you might look substantially different than headshots even taken a few years ago.

Glasses, accessories, tattoos, piercings, etc. If any of these are now part of your everyday look, you need shots with them. Many actors maintain both glasses and no-glasses options.

Can probably wait

Minor weight fluctuation. Self explanatory! Most people can't notice this type of change in a headshot.

Seasonal changes. A bit more tan in summer, slightly paler in winter - you probably don't look to different across seasons. (I mean, if you've been tanning on the beach in Florida 24/7, maybe you will, but you should be able to assess that yourself!)

Small styling changes. A slightly different haircut that's the same general length and color doesn't warrant a reshoot.

The "walk in the room" test

If a casting director pulled up your headshot and you walked into the audition room, would they recognize you immediately?

This sounds simple, but actors are terrible at self-assessment here. We see ourselves every day and don't register gradual changes. Ask trusted friends, your agent, or your acting coach. They see you less frequently and will notice what you've stopped seeing.

When your rep asks

If your agent or manager asks for new headshots, don't argue. They've seen hundreds, if not thousands, of headshots, and they'll know what fits your look or style best. If they're pushing for updates, the market is telling them your current shots aren't working for you.

Your headshot is a marketing tool, and tools need to be maintained.

Career transitions require updates

Sometimes you need new headshots not because you've changed physically, but because your career direction has changed:

Shifting from commercial to theatrical (or vice versa). Different looks entirely.

Moving to a new market. LA, NY, and other major markets have different aesthetics. A headshot that killed in Chicago might need adjustment for LA.

Changing your type. Maybe you've been submitting for "best friend" roles and want to push toward "lead." That's a different energy, potentially different styling, maybe a different photographer.

Rebranding after a break. If you've been out of the industry for a while and are returning, fresh headshots signal that you're active and current.

How should you budget for headshots?

Professional headshots cost money. A professional headshot can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500, depending on the photographer, the location, and the number of looks.

This is a lot, but usually it's worth it! The difference between taking selfies on your phone and hiring a professional photographer is drastic, and the actors that you're competing with are doing the same.

However, if you're early on and don't have a lot of money to spend, you may be able to get away with a DIY headshot in the beginning. Photo editing tools have gotten better and better, and at this point they can get you to 95% of the quality of a professional headshot.

For a tool like this, we recommend our own headshot creation tool, tried and tested by real actors.

Are my old photos still useful?

Just because you need an update doesn't mean every old photo is useless.

Keep theatrical shots if your theatrical look hasn't changed much. Hold onto shots that represent specific types you still fit. Maintain a range of expressions if they're still accurate.

Update what needs updating. Keep what still works. Your portfolio can mix sessions if the photos are all still representative.

Self-assess yourself

Every six months, look at your current headshots and ask yourself: Does this look like me right now? Does this represent the roles I'm currently pursuing? Would I recognize myself immediately if I saw this photo? Would casting be surprised when I walk in the room?

If you answer "no" to any of these, it's time to start planning an update.

So, should I update my headshots?

Update your headshots when they stop representing you accurately. For most actors, that's every one to three years, but life changes don't follow schedules. Stay honest with yourself about how you look versus how your photo looks.

Your headshot is a promise to casting: "This is who will show up." Make sure you can keep that promise every time.