Hey All,

I just got the edited versions of my new headshots. I’m digging the black background. We’ll see if they’re successful. With their introduction, I’m sharing my thoughts on when to get new headshots. As always, grain of salt people. Opinions will vary. Listen to your agent/manager/mom if they disagree.

1. Your Headshots Don’t Look Like You

For those who have been following me on the social media front, you know that I wrote a screenplay and that Less Than 30 goes into production this month (WHAT!?). I’m also a producer on the film, and I sat in/was the reader for the auditions. Thus, I know first hand that directors do NOT like it when you don’t look like your headshot. This is not to say that a headshot shouldn’t be a great picture of YOU, but if you’re going to look glamorous in it, you better be prepared to do that makeup for every.single.audition. Alternatively, and my favorite solution, have different headshots for your “types.” For example, in theatre I am often cast as either a cold, sexual b*tch  or the innocent (go figure) and in film I’ve mostly been playing girls next door (from manic pixie to troubled). Can you tell which one’s marketed which way? (If you can’t, tell me. Something’s getting lost in translation and I need to know).

2. You Hate Your Headshots

I don’t know why we do it, but a headshot we formerly loved now makes our toes curl with hate. Why do my eyes look like that?! What am I doing with my mouth!? Do I look drunkie!? Etc. If you don’t love it, you’re going to dread sending it out, so save yourself some angst at the starting gate and pony up for ones you do love.

3. You’re Rebranding

Do you want to move from “Tough Guy” to “Leading Man?” Jax Teller aside, these are very different looks and your headshot should reflect the new direction. When making a brand switch, do your research. Pinterest has some great boards devoted to actors, as well as, headshots. Look at the people whose career you hope to emulate and gather your inspiration.