Actor Headshots
How Does It Work To Photograph Acting Headshots?
When you come in, I’ll have you hang the outfits that you brought on a rack. We can go through and see what you brought and decide what we think are the best options. Always best to start with the outfit you feel like a million bucks in.
I love to chat and hear about your acting career so far, and find out what kind of roles you’re getting and what you’d like to be getting.
Once we start the session, I’ll guide you and coach you on poses and facial expressions. I shoot to a large screen so we can everything as we shoot. This is perfect for coaching and for making any changes you want in real-time.
What Are Actors Headshots?
Acting headshots are photographs taken from about mid-chest up. The focus here is really on your face and your facial expressions.
An acting headshot is the first time casting agents, casting directors, and managers will see you. They'll make a split-second judgment about you based on that image.
Variety in your acting headshots is the key. Your facial expressions should show off the personality of the types of roles you want to read for. So, no more relying one “good” headshot to get you by.
Time for new headshots!
Theater Headshots
Theater headshots are essential for capturing the your essence as a performer, showcasing versatility, and portraying the unique qualities that casting directors look for. These headshots should highlight your personality while being adaptable to a range of roles.
Headshots For TV and Film
TV and film headshots are crucial for portraying the real, authentic you while capturing the unique qualities casting agents seek. Unlike theatrical headshots, which are often dramatic and expressive, TV and film headshots focus on natural, subtle expressions that convey your on-screen presence. A well-crafted headshot can help casting directors see you in the roles they envision.
I had contacted John to get acting headshots done. This was my first time doing anything like this, so naturally I was a little nervous. But John was amazing, and his coaching really helped me feel confident and validate my ambitions. I cannot recommend John Armato enough, and I know that he will be the first person I go to next time I need photos done! -Mckenna D.
Getting the Look “Just Right” in Your Actor Headshots
With some simple coaching on pose and expression, along with great studio lighting, I'm able to capture acting headshots that show off your true personality with confidence and approachability. We were able to get a good variety of expressions to suit different audition needs. You can't be too prepared in this field. If all your headshots look like the girl or guy next door but you want to be playing a badass law and order cop, you're handicapping yourself by not having the right images to send.
I like to find out what you're reading for right now and what you'd like to be reading for, then we can shoot for a variety of expressions that match the character types you want to be playing.
My professional headshot studio space is located in Rockville, Maryland, and I offer in-studio or outdoor headshot sessions depending on the style that suits you and your brand. If you have any questions about a headshot session, feel free to contact me below.
Child Actor Headshots
I hear a lot of parents of young actors saying, “Well, let's see if he/she really gets into it, then I'll invest in headshots,” or, “I'm waiting to see if my kid gets cast for something before spending the money.”
I get it, money can be tight, and activities are expensive. Be glad your child isn't getting into hockey! If your son or daughter is into acting and wants to be cast for TV, film, or the stage, the best investment you can make is on solid headshots. These headshots are going to be the first thing a casting director sees before even meeting your son or daughter. Before they've even had a chance to see what they can do as actors, that first impression will have already been made. Make sure that you're going in strong with a good headshot.
Professional headshots show that you believe you are worth it. It shows the casting agent you think you are worth their time and that you see yourself as a professional.
There will be hundreds of people all auditioning for the same part, so anything you can do to make yourself stand out above those other folks will only help you in the process.
I work as an expression and posing coach with every client that walks in the door. I guide everyone through the process of carefully crafting headshots that show variety in expression and mood. I want you to leave here armed with a great headshot, no matter what you want to audition for.
Here is a session I did with a young actor in my neighborhood. He killed it in front of the camera. Keep your eyes on this guy!
As a professional headshot photographer, I serve the Maryland, Virginia, and D.C. areas with both in-studio and outdoor headshot sessions.
For more information on child headshots for you or your young actor or actress, send me a note below, or book a session today.
“These are some of the best headshots I’ve ever had! John Was so much fun to work with and Megan’s makeup and hair were incredible! I couldn’t be happier! Highly recommend! 5/5 stars! They’re phenomenal! ❤️”
— Bailey L, via Google
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