Quick Answer
Acting headshots are a vital marketing tool for actors, so choosing photos with effective facial expressions is key. The ideal headshots feature genuine, warm smiles that exude confidence and approachability. Actors should avoid overly broad smiles and stick with a natural look. Eyes should be bright, warm, and engaged to draw in casting directors. Portraying different emotions like joy, pensiveness, laughter, or determination through subtle facial expressions also adds dimension. Headshots aiming for leading roles should capture magnetism and personality. The most authentic expressions that align with an actor's brand and typecast generally make the strongest impressions. With quality photos featuring genuine, emotive facial expressions, actors can make memorable first impressions and stand out.
Introduction
Acting headshots are an essential part of any actor's marketing materials. They serve as your calling card to casting directors and convey your persona and range at a glance. While there are many technical aspects of taking great headshots, one of the most important is mastering key facial expressions that capture different emotions and moods. This allows you to showcase diversity while still maintaining continuity across your materials.
In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down how to develop a versatile facial expression repertoire for acting headshots. You'll learn techniques to expand your emotional range as well as practice specific expressions that casting directors look for. With tips for both beginning and experienced actors, this guide will help take your headshots to the next level.
Developing a Facial Expression Repertoire
The foundation of great acting headshots is developing a diverse repertoire of expressive looks. Rather than trying to master any single expression, your goal should be flexibility across a range of emotions. Here are some tips for expanding your facial capabilities:
Understand Your Natural Facial Tendencies
Start by analyzing your own facial habits and mannerisms. What are your natural go-to expressions? Do you tend to use the same few repeatedly? Becoming aware of ingrained facial patterns allows you to push beyond your comfort zone.
Make Faces in the Mirror
Spend time practicing different expressions in front of a mirror to see how they translate. Exaggerate them at first and pay attention to which muscles are engaged for each. How do subtle shifts in those muscles change the emotion you convey?
Loosen Up Facial Muscles
Just as an athlete warms up before a game, take time to loosen up your facial muscles before a headshot session. Massage your face, stretch it out, and shake out tension to increase mobility.
Try Face Yoga
Face yoga uses a series of exercises to strengthen and expand facial muscle capacity. Added flexibility and control will help you access more expressions.
Explore Character Expressions
Take inspiration from different characters and imitate their signature facial expressions. Are there any that feel outside your norm that you can incorporate?
Watch for Inspiration
Study facial expressions in movies, TV shows, and real people. When you see one that grabs you, try recreating it in the mirror to make it part of your repertoire.
React to Imagined Scenarios
Envision different scenarios designed to elicit emotions like excitement, sorrow, anger, joy, fear, etc. Let your face react naturally without limiting responses.
Mastering Key Expressions for Headshots
In addition to broadening your overall facial range, there are certain expressions that are essential for acting headshots. These common looks give casting directors an immediate sense of your skill and personality.
Neutral/Pleasant
A straight-on headshot with a neutral or slight smile is a must-have. This showcases your regular appearance and energy. The expression should be pleasant but not convey too much emotion.
Genuine Smile
This is a relaxed, authentic smile that reaches your eyes and gives a sense of approachability. Avoid an exaggerated grin, which can look unnatural.
Serious/Intense
With furrowed brows and focused gaze, this adds gravitas and conveys your dramatic capability. Jaw tension can also help sell intensity.
Quirky/Comedic
For those with comedic ability, this offbeat expression shows your playful side. Try a smirk, raised eyebrow, or any unique twist that hints at a fun-loving personality.
Confident/Bold
Pull your shoulders back and lift your chin up. Widened eyes and lightly raised eyebrows project leadership and confidence. This commands attention.
Pensive/Contemplative
Softer, more internal gaze with slightly knit brows gives a thoughtful, introspective vibe. Add a touch of vulnerability. Great for dramatic roles.
Joyful/Carefree
A wide open-mouthed smile and relaxed brow convey lighthearted energy. Use this or a fun variation to showcase a cheerful spirit.
Best Practices for Headshot Facial Expressions
When selecting and refining expressions for your acting headshots, keep the following best practices in mind:
Choose Expressions Strategically
Carefully curate 6-10 diverse expressions that show off your key qualities and range. Avoid repetitive or overly similar looks.
Emphasize Your Strengths
Let your innate persona shine through. If you excel at comedy, incorporate more humorous/quirky expressions. Play to your strengths.
Stay True to Yourself
While expanding your repertoire, ensure expressions feel authentic. Anything overly exaggerated risks coming off disingenuous.
Check Alignment With Type
Do your expressions align with your acting type? For example, "girl next door" types should incorporate warm, approachable looks.
Get Input From Photographer
Ask your headshot photographer which expressions they recommend. They'll know what pops on camera.
Review Options With Representation
Share options with agents/managers to get their input on which expressions best represent you.
Test Out Looks Beforehand
Practice your planned expressions in the mirror so you can replicate them naturally during the shoot.
Come Prepared With Inspiration
Bring reference photos of expressions you want to emulate to show the photographer examples.
Directing the Eyes for Maximum Impact
Your eyes are central to conveying emotion and connecting through the camera. Pay close attention to directing your eye gaze for maximum effectiveness:
Connect With the Camera
Unless the expression calls for looking aside, focus your eyes directly at the camera lens. This engages viewers.
Adjust Eye Focus
Softer, more relaxed eyes suit some expressions while sharper focus amplifies intensity and seriousness.
Don't Let Eyes Look Dead
Avoid staring blankly into the camera. Have a clear focal point to make eyes look purposeful.
Use Squinting Selectively
Light squinting can project thoughtfulness or skepticism. Overused, it can make you look guarded.
Keep Eyes Active
Even when expression and pose are neutral, keep a glint of alertness in the eyes. This keeps energy flowing.
Blink Naturally
Blinking helps keep eyes looking crisp. But blink carefully during shots to avoid shutting eyes at the wrong moment.
Avoid Over-Posing Eyes
While directing your gaze is good, don't over-think eye positioning. Natural eyes align best with authentic expressions.
Check for Redness
Examine your eyes closely in the mirror before a shoot. Redness diminishes vibrancy. Use drops to reduce it.
Consider Catchlights
Ask about the use of reflectors during your shoot. Catchlights in your eyes can make them pop.
Working With a Photographer to Get Great Shots
Collaborating effectively with your headshot photographer will produce the best results. Here are some tips for working together:
Communicate Your Goals Upfront
Explain the types of expressions you want to focus on and your overall vision. Provide examples you like.
Share Your Repertoire
Discuss the range of expressions you've developed. This gives the photographer insight into your capabilities.
Be Coachable
Trust your photographer's guidance on which expressions translate best on camera. Be willing to take direction.
Ask About Lighting Approach
Will the photographer use any specialized lighting? Rembrandt? Loop? Flat? Understanding the lighting helps guide your facial dimension.
Request Feedback on Energy
Ask photographers for real-time feedback if expressions feel flat or low-energy. They may see issues you don't.
Need a Warm Up? Ask.
If you feel stiff or not warmed up yet, communicate that. Take a moment to shake it out and recharge.
Speak Up About Discomfort
Don't stay quiet if you feel pain in a pose or can't hold an expression naturally. Your photographer needs to know.
Review Images Together
Work collaboratively with the photographer rather than on your own. What do they see working or not working in the results?
Provide Constructive Feedback
If an approach or instruction isn't landing for you, offer diplomatic feedback on why and how you think you can improve.
Book Additional Time If Needed
If needed, don't be afraid to extend the shoot duration or book a second session. Rushing the process rarely pays off.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
When shooting acting headshots, there are some common mistakes that compromise the effectiveness of your facial expressions. Be mindful to avoid:
Forced, Fake Expressions
Dishonest expressions read as inauthentic on camera. React genuinely to prompts instead of artificially posing.
Emoting With Just the Mouth
Don't rely solely on your mouth to convey expressions. Engage the whole face - eyes, brows, forehead, and more.
Neglecting the Jaw
Your jaw's positioning impacts most expressions. Be aware of letting it hang open unattractively.
Poor Head/Chin Alignment
Tilting your head oddly or letting your chin jut forward can ruin an otherwise good expression.
Distracting Nervous Tics
Anxious tics like rapid blinking or fake grinning undermine the emotion you want to achieve.
Looking Off-Camera
It's obvious when your eyeline is focused away from the camera lens. Keep eyes engaged.
Exaggerating Intensity
Avoid over-the-top intensity in dramatic expressions. Nuance reads better on camera.
Relying Too Much on Eyes
While eyes are critical, don't neglect the rest of your face. Holistic expressions are most convincing.
Disconnected Expressions
Ensure expressions match your inner intention and feeling. Disconnects look disingenuous.
Recycling the Same Look
Vary your facial expressions and don't get stuck on repeating your perceived "best" one.
Breaking Down Facial Muscle Groups
To gain fuller control over your range of facial expressions, it helps to understand the major muscle groups involved:
Frontalis
This muscle in the forehead controls raising and drawing together of the brows. It's engaged for looks of surprise, concern, concentration, etc. Practicing isolating it gives you ability to wrinkle your forehead intentionally.
Orbicularis Oculi
Encircling the eye sockets, this muscle allows you to squint, wink, and crease the corners of your eyes during smiles. Increased mobility enhances your ability to emote primarily with your eyes.
Zygomaticus Major
Running from the cheekbone to the corners of the mouth, these are your key smiling muscles. They pull the mouth wide and upward. Mixing smiles of different intensities is crucial for headshots.
Orbicularis Oris
This muscle surrounds your lips and allows you to purse, relax, or tighten them. Subtle shifts make smiles and other expressions look more natural.
Mentalis
Located in the chin, this muscle lets you tighten, loosen, raise, and lower your lower lip. This adds nuance to the mouth area.
Masseter
Control the prominent chewing muscle along your jawline to shape your jaw's positioning. A relaxed vs. clenched masseter changes the whole lower face.
Incorporating Your Hands
While facial expressions are the obvious focus for acting headshots, strategic use of your hands can also be impactful:
Promote Dimensionality
Placing one hand slightly closer to the camera and the other further back adds depth and interest to the composition.
Reflect Inner Intention
Hand gestures and poses should always match the internal emotion you want to convey. Don't let your hands undermine your face's intention.
Avoid Distracting Hand Habits
Some actors unconsciously touch their face, flick their fingers, etc. during shoots. Break distracting hand habits.
Consider Hand Positioning
Does the scene prompt a natural hand placement, like on a table? Make use of available hand positions that fit the emotion.
Drop Tense Shoulders
Even neutral hands relaxed at your sides improve expressions if they release tension in your neck and shoulders.
Add Warmth With Open Palms
Palms opened upward or outward feel more welcoming than hands balled up or stiff at your sides.
Use Single-Hand Focus
Drawing focus to one hand at a time coming toward the camera creates anice composition.
Working With Eyeglasses and Angles
Two technical considerations for headshot facial expressions are managing glasses and camera angles:
Position Glasses Strategically
Place eyeglasses low on your nose so eyes are fully visible over the rims or lens. Avoid glare blocking your eyes.
Check Glare Before Shooting
Have assistants hold reflector panels to identify potential glare on your lenses. Modify positioning to avoid it.
Tilt Head Slightly Down With Glasses
Tilting your chin down a few degrees prevents shadows from your brow covering your eyes.
Profile Can Minimize Glare
A 3/4 or profile angle is often more flattering for eyeglass wearers to avoid glare.
Arms Down to Avoid Reflection
With overhead lighting, putting your arms up can reflect in glasses. Keep them down.
Softer Lighting Minimizes Glare
Ask photographers about diffuse lighting approaches if glare is persistent. Softboxes and scrims can help.
Watch Camera Angle Consistency
When shooting multiple expressions, photographer should maintain the same angle and distance. Avoid lens distortion between looks.
Chin Up and Forward
Whether below or direct on, camera should be positioned to lift and elongate the neck and chin. Avoid unflattering angles.
Eyes Slightly Up
Eyes look best directed slightly upward rather than straight into a below camera. This opens up the expression.
Adjusting Approaches By Gender
There are some differences in conventional headshot expressions between masculine and feminine looks:
Masculine
More neutral, stoic expressions traditionally expected
Intense, smoldering gazes more common
Emphasis on strong jawlines and cheekbones
Brows can be lowered and serious
Feminine
Generally more smiling, warm expressions
Eyes often brighter, wider, and upbeat
More coy, flirty looks encouraged
Softness and approachability prioritized
However, as gender norms evolve, don't be afraid to bend traditional conventions if other expressions feel right. The key is always finding authenticity. Use expectations only as helpful starting places to then expand from.
Working With Photoshop Post-Production
Digital post-production allows photographers to refine and enhance some aspects of your facial expressions:
Brightening Eyes
Subtly increasing the brightness in the eyes can make them pop more. But avoid overdoing it.
Smoothing Skin
Light skin smoothing is common to minimize temporary blemishes and shine. Don't lose your natural skin texture.
Reducing Redness
Some redness caused by shooting conditions can be reduced if it negatively impacts the expression.
Whitening Teeth
Brightening teeth slightly helps draw focus to the mouth area. Make sure it looks natural.
Darkening Eyelashes
This can help frame eyes depending on the expression. But avoid being overly heavy-handed.
In all cases, post-production effects should only provide light enhancement and not materially alter your natural expressions. If effects start to look obvious or overly processed, they will backfire. The key is maintaining authenticity.
Key Tips for Different Experience Levels
Whether you're just starting out or are a seasoned pro, these tips will help tailor your approach:
If You're Just Beginning:
Focus on nailing the core neutral and pleasant expressions first.
Work extensively in front of a mirror to understand how your face moves.
Don't try to mimic other people's expressions too much. Stay true to your natural tendencies.
Do facial exercises to build muscular control and increase mobility.
Study headshots you admire to discern what makes their expressions effective.
If You're Established:
Curate expressions that reinforce your personal brand and existing body of work.
Choose looks outside your norm that hint at additional range.
Sync up your expressions with subtleties in lighting, pose, and environment for maximum impact.
Avoid repeating the same expressions from previous headshot sessions. Give fresh options.
Have acting colleagues or teachers evaluate your planned expressions for authenticity.
Work with photographers who challenge you creatively. Don't settle for stale, expected looks.
Additional Tips for Specific Acting Roles
Tailoring your headshot expressions to reinforce your ideal casting types can give you an edge. Here are some additional tips for common acting archetypes:
Leading Man/Woman
Incorporate sincere, straight-on eye contact to connect with the viewer
Prioritize gravitas, approachability, leadership, and strength
Focus on projecting confidence mixed with sensitivity
Girl/Boy Next Door
Warm, bubbly smiles that radiate sweetness and positivity
Friendly eyes that draw the viewer in
Avoid seductive or overly intense gazes
Brooding Romantic Lead
Intense but vulnerable eyes are key
Slight furrowing of brows adds emotional depth
Allow a touch of melancholy and wistfulness to come through
Comedic Actor
Playful, mischievous expressions
Fun experimentation with awkward or exaggerated expressions
Goofy smiles that aren't trying too hard
Villain/Bad Guy
Piercing, penetrating stares to unnerve
An edgy smirk can reinforce mischief and danger
Shadows accentuating intense eyes and cheekbones
Quirky Character Actor
Offbeat expressions with unique personality
Physicality matching unique essence
Avoid looking too affected or broad
Keep playing with expressions until you land on looks that feel true to your brand as an actor. Then refine those until they capture what makes your qualities magnetic.
Putting It All Together
Approaching acting headshots with purpose and strategy regarding your facial expressions will pay dividends. By developing a diverse repertoire, nailing key expressions, collaborating with photographers effectively, and continually improving, you'll convey the full breadth of your personality and talent to casting directors.
Remember to stay true to yourself while showing range. Avoid common mistakes like forced expressions or overusing certain muscles. With the right guidance tailored to your experience level, you can produce headshots that make a lasting impression and get you into the audition room. Use these tips to take control of your expressions and create your best, most compelling acting headshots yet.
| Section | Key Points |
|---|---|
| Developing a Facial Expression Repertoire | - Analyze natural facial tendencies - Practice making faces in mirror - Loosen facial muscles - Try face yoga - Explore character expressions - Study others for inspiration - React to imagined scenarios |
| Mastering Key Expressions | - Neutral/pleasant - Genuine smile - Serious/intense - Quirky/comedic - Confident/bold - Pensive/contemplative - Joyful/carefree |
| Best Practices | - Choose expressions strategically - Emphasize strengths - Stay true to yourself - Check alignment with type - Get photographer input - Review with representation - Test looks beforehand - Bring inspiration |
| Directing the Eyes | - Connect with camera - Adjust eye focus - Don't let eyes look dead - Use squinting selectively - Keep eyes active - Blink naturally - Avoid over-posing - Check for redness - Consider catchlights |
| Working With Photographer | - Communicate goals upfront - Share repertoire - Be coachable - Ask about lighting - Request feedback - Speak up about discomfort - Review images together - Provide feedback |
| Avoiding Mistakes | - Forced expressions - Just emoting with mouth - Neglecting jaw - Poor head/chin alignment - Nervous tics - Looking off-camera - Exaggerating intensity - Relying too much on eyes - Disconnected expressions - Recycling same look |
| Tips By Experience | Beginner: Focus on core expressions, self-study, stay true to self, exercises Established: Reinforce brand, show new range, sync expressions with lighting/pose, give fresh options |
| Facial Muscles | - Frontalis - Orbicularis oculi - Zygomaticus major - Orbicularis oris - Mentalis - Masseter |
| Incorporating Hands | - Promote dimensionality - Reflect inner intention - Avoid distracting habits - Consider hand positioning - Drop tense shoulders - Add warmth with open palms - Use single-hand focus |
| Managing Glasses & Angles | - Position glasses strategically - Check for glare - Tilt head down with glasses - Use profile angle - Keep arms down - Use soft lighting - Watch angle consistency - Chin up and forward - Eyes slightly up |
| Adjusting for Gender | Masculine: More neutral, intense gazes, strong jaws/cheekbones Feminine: More smiling, bright eyes, softness |
| Working With Photoshop | - Brightening eyes - Smoothing skin - Reducing redness - Whitening teeth - Darkening eyelashes |
| Tips for Acting Roles | Leading: Gravitas, confidence, sensitivity Girl/Boy Next Door: Warm, bubbly Brooding Romantic: Intense, vulnerable Comedic: Playful, goofy Villain: Piercing stares, edgy smirk Quirky Character: Offbeat, avoid broad |
| Conclusion | - Develop repertoire - Master key expressions - Follow best practices - Collaborate effectively - Continually improve - Stay authentic - Show range |
| Topic | Summary Points |
|---|---|
| Headshot Types | - Commercial (warm, cheerful) - Theatrical (dramatic, intense) - Lifestyle (relaxed, casual) - Character (accentuates unique traits) |
| Posing | - Chin slightly down - Shoulders back - Lean forward slightly - Engage core - Arms away from body - Hands relaxed - Solid posture |
| Lighting | - Butterfly lighting (dramatic) - Loop lighting (angular face) - Rembrandt (triangular highlight) - Split lighting (creates depth) - Flat lighting (high contrast) |
| Background | - Solid color (non-distracting) - Subtle texture (adds depth) - Similar tone to skin/hair (prevents clash) - Avoid busy patterns |
| Cropping | - Head only (focus on face) - Head/torso (more of body) - Medium shot (upper chest up) - Wide shot (full body) |
| Perspective | - Straight on (direct connection) - Angled (3/4 view) - Profile (dramatic) - Low angle (increase stature) |
| Retouching | - Brighten eyes - Soften skin - Conceal blemishes - Reduce shine - Whiten teeth - Sharpen jawline |
| Printing | - Professional print house - Satin, glossy, or matte finish - 8x10 standard size - Match headshot to resume paper |
| Costs | - Photographer hourly rate - Retouching fee per photo - Hair/makeup styling - Printing and reproduction - Additional prints |
| Organization | - Digital filing system - Backup copies - Databases/profiles - Easy access for submissions |
| Usage | - Headshots with resumes - Online casting profiles - Business cards - Website galleries - Physical mailings |
Conclusion
Great acting headshots require technical photographic mastery as well as strategic choice of expressions. Presenting a range of evocative emotions gives casting directors a window into your capabilities. With a developed repertoire, guidance on mastering key looks, and best practices for collaborating with photographers, this guide provides actors with the tools to succeed.
Remember to play to your natural strengths while showing new dimensions too. Stay authentic in your expressions and direct your eyes with intention. Curate shots tailored to your experience level and brand. Avoid pitfalls like exaggerating or forcing emotions. With practice and dedication to your facial instrument, your headshots will move casting directors and put your acting career on the fast track. Use these tips to take your headshot expressions to the next level.