The Headshot Formula That Gets You Seen

Know your type. Show your range. Land auditions.

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Actor Chase Lubag showcases a stylish transformation with silver hair and bold fashion, captured by photographer Laura Flannery and styled by Kasey Smith.

You’ve booked your headshot session with your favorite photographer—yay!

But now what?

Before you start pulling outfits or stressing about poses, let’s take a beat and do some brainstorming. A little clarity on your brand and the characters you’re most aligned with can make a big difference in the outcome of your shoot.

Here’s how to prep with purpose, so your headshots feel authentic—and casting takes notice.

Start With You

Casting directors want to see your true self. But let’s not forget: you are a character. Just like preparing for an audition, we’re going to break you down in the most empowering way possible.

Make a list of the following:

• Who you are in real life (best friend, sister, pet parent, bartender, athlete...)

• The types of shows/films you see yourself in or dream of doing

• Actors who play roles you’d love to book

• Character types you’ve auditioned for before

• Actors or characters people say you resemble

💡 This is just for you—so be honest and specific.

Do a Little Research

• Search IMDb or Google for actors who look like you. Study their headshots and marketing materials.

• Look at the client pages of agencies you admire. What do their headshots look like? What are they wearing?

• If you have reps, ask them how they’re marketing you—it’s helpful to align before the shoot. (And if you don’t have reps yet, that’s totally fine. This is still YOUR career. You’ve got this!)

Character Trends by Age Group

While it’s important not to box yourself in, understanding current casting trends can give you helpful direction. Use this list as inspiration—not a rulebook.

Kids & Tweens

• Girl/Boy Next Door, Disney Kid, Best Friend

• Bully, Cool Hip Kid

• Studious, Young Professional

Teens & Early 20s

• Everyday Roles: Jock, Hipster, Gamer, Surfer, Best Friend, Love Interest

• Edgy: Anti-hero, Troubled Teen, Emo, Villain

• Professional: Intern, Student, Geeky Tech, Creative Pro

Mid 20s–Early 30s

• Relatable Types: Lovable Loser, Fashionista, Best Friend

• Edgy: Villain, Addict, Gangster, Hero/Heroine

• Professional: Lawyer, FBI Agent, Assistant, Waitress

• Parenting Roles: Young Mom/Dad, Suburban, BBQ Vibes

30s–40s

• Everyday People: Nosy Neighbor, Love Interest, Fit Friend

• Professional: Doctor, Detective, News Anchor, Lawyer

• Edgy: Biker, Streetwise, Mafia Type

• Parenting Roles: Bohemian, Blue Collar, Suburban Parent

50s & Up

• Grandparent Roles: Outdoorsy, Country Club, Warm

• Business Types: CEO, Judge, FBI Director

• Edgy Roles: Mafia Boss, Addict, Anti-hero

Think Creatively, Stay Flexible

Your headshot session is a creative process—not a rigid checklist. Don’t worry about hitting every category. Just bring a variety of options, trust the process, and let your photographer guide you.

For more prep tips, be sure to check out my post: Headshot Session: Wardrobe

Have fun. Be bold. Show up as YOU.

— Laura F.