For actors and models, photos open doors. A headshot is often the first thing a casting director sees, and a modeling portfolio is how an agency decides whether to call you in. The good news is that starting out does not require expensive photos. It requires the right photos.
This guide explains what a professional headshot is, what agencies want to see from new models, how to build a portfolio and comp card, and how to avoid overpaying.
What Is a Headshot?
A headshot is a close-up photo, usually from the chest or shoulders up, that shows what you look like right now. Casting directors use headshots to decide who to call in for auditions, so the most important rule is simple: your headshot must look like you on a good, normal day.
A strong acting headshot has:
- Sharp focus on the eyes and expression that suggests a personality.
- Natural hair and makeup close to how you show up to auditions.
- Simple clothing in solid colors that do not distract from your face.
- A clean, uncluttered background.
- Minimal retouching. Removing a temporary blemish is fine; changing your face is not.
Many actors have two looks: a commercial headshot that is warm and approachable, and a theatrical headshot that is more dramatic for film and television. Update your headshots whenever your look changes, such as a new haircut, or every year or two for young actors.
Polaroids and Digitals for New Models
New models do not need a professional portfolio to approach an agency. Most agencies ask for simple, unedited snapshots often called polaroids or digitals:
- Clothing: fitted, plain clothing such as a tank top and jeans, so the agency can see your shape.
- Makeup and hair: little or no makeup, and hair pulled back from the face in some shots.
- Lighting: natural daylight, such as near a window, with no filters.
- Shots: a smiling and a neutral close-up, a profile, and a full-length shot.
Agencies want to see the raw material. Heavily edited photos make them wonder what you actually look like. For more on getting started, see our guide on how to be a model.
Building a Modeling Portfolio
A modeling portfolio, often called a “book,” is a collection of your best professional images. Once you are signed, your agency usually guides what goes in it and may arrange test shoots with photographers. A good book:
- Shows range: different looks, lighting, clothing, and moods.
- Puts the strongest images first.
- Stays focused: quality over quantity, often 10 to 20 images.
- Includes tear sheets, which are published images from real jobs, as you earn them.
- Lives online: most agencies and clients view books digitally.
What Is a Comp Card?
A comp card (also called a zed card) is a model’s business card. It typically shows one main headshot on the front and several images on the back, along with your name, height, measurements, hair and eye color, and your agency’s contact information. Agencies usually produce comp cards for the models they represent, and many are now digital.
Choosing a Photographer
- Review their portfolio for headshots or model tests that match what you need.
- Ask what is included: number of looks, retouched images, and usage rights.
- Ask your agent or acting teacher for recommendations.
- Bring a parent or guardian if you are under 18, and never agree to a shoot that makes you uncomfortable.
Be cautious if an agency insists you use its own photographer for an expensive package before it will represent you. The FTC lists required photographers and upfront fees among the warning signs of modeling scams. Read our guide on spotting modeling and acting scams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my own headshots with a phone?
For model digitals, yes. For acting headshots, a professional photographer usually produces better results, but a well-lit phone photo can work while you are just starting out.
How often should I update my headshots?
Whenever your look changes significantly. Children and teens change quickly and often need new photos every year.
Do I need a portfolio before contacting an agency?
No. Most agencies prefer simple, unedited snapshots from new models and help build the portfolio after signing.
Have a great headshot? Put it to work. Tell us why you wanna be famous.