8 Steps to your first role – Part 1: Get your Headshots
Breaking into the industry can feel daunting, but the right advice can help you take those first steps with confidence. In part one of our series on helping you land your first role, our Birmingham campus Careers Manager Katie Kerr shares her top tips on getting the perfect headshot.
Authenticity Matters
Your headshot is often the very first impression a casting director has of you, so authenticity matters. The goal isn’t to create a version of yourself that looks overly polished or unrecognisable — it’s to make sure your headshot genuinely reflects who will walk into the audition room. If your photos don’t look like you on your best day, it can create confusion and disconnect during casting.
Invest in a Professional Photographer
Investing in a professional photographer can make a huge difference. A strong headshot photographer understands lighting, angles, and most importantly, how to capture personality and presence. Professional headshots aren’t just about looking good — they’re about communicating your casting type clearly and confidently.
Choose the Right Headshot for Your Casting
When selecting your final images, remember that the “prettiest” photo isn’t always the best choice. The strongest headshot is the one that aligns with the kinds of roles you’re most likely to be cast in. Think about your casting: are you naturally suited to drama, comedy, corporate roles, period pieces, or edgy contemporary work? Choose images that tell that story.
Create Variety with Different Looks
It’s worth bringing a variety of outfits and trying different looks during your shoot. Small changes in styling can completely shift the feel of a headshot, allowing you to tailor submissions for different genres and projects. Having a selection of looks gives you flexibility and helps you market yourself more effectively across the industry.
Your Headshot Is a Marketing Tool
As a performer, you are the CEO of your own business. Every part of your professional image matters, and your headshot is one of your most valuable marketing assets. Treat it as an investment in your career — because a great headshot doesn’t just capture how you look; it helps communicate who you are as a performer.
Find out more about our Creative Futures team here.
To discover more about Performers College, including auditions and how to apply, contact us at [email protected] or you can Apply Now, or book an Open Day on our Events page.
