There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to acting headshot poses, and that’s actually a really good thing! Different poses serve different purposes. Some are considered standard and essential. Others can be used as complementary headshots that help you stand out for specific types of roles.

Standard Acting Headshot Poses

Standard acting headshot poses like a clean, straight-on close-up or a slightly angled portrait, are your go-to images. These are the ones you’ll use most often on casting websites, in agent submissions, or during auditions. They’re designed to show casting directors exactly what you look like and give them a natural, honest sense of your essence. If you’re just starting out in your acting career or still refining your archetypes, getting a solid commercial headshot and theatrical headshot that are a true representation of you on your best day is a great place to start. (Not sure what a commercial or theatrical headshot is? Or thinking, “What the heck in an archetype?!?” Check out this blog post by Backstage.)

As you grow an actor and have a clearer sense of the roles you are typically getting seen for (or roles you would be right for and would like to get seen for), this is the perfect time to add a few supporting headshots that hint at character, tone, or energy. These can help casting teams visualize you in a variety of roles.

Here are a few of the types of acting headshot poses that are industry standard and/or will help your images stand out in a saturated market.

• Straight On Close-Up: This is a direct at camera pose that shows a confident, neutral expression, focuses on the eyes, and gives a clear sense of your essence. Perfect for theatrical roles and agent rosters. This will be your go-to industry standard acting headshot.
• Slightly Angled Pose: This pose can be more dynamic and can suggest friendliness or introspection. This is another great option for general submissions.
• Full Body Pose: Ideal for commercial auditions (think athletics, yoga, etc.), dance roles, or theater resumes where physicality matters.
• Three-Quarter Lifestyle Pose: This pose can be more relaxed and candid. Helps with casting for commercials, lifestyle brands, or light-hearted character types.
• Pose with Hands Visible: This headshot pose adds storytelling power. Subtle hand placement can suggest warmth, confidence, or energy, which is great for editorial, commercial, or personality-driven roles.
• Over-the-Shoulder Look: This pose can add a touch of intrigue or intensity, and is excellent for moody, dramatic roles.
• Off-Camera Gaze: Creates emotional depth or a sense of contemplation. Great for indie or narrative-driven characters. This is definitely a headshot pose I would use as an accent headshot for a very specific role. 
• Natural Laugh or Smirk: This is your commercial gold. These expressions bring authenticity and engagement that show off your personality. This type of acting headshot can appeal to commercial clients looking for the right actor who will be helping sell their product. This can also be your money shot for landing comedic acting roles.

The overall goal of your headshot photography session should be to build a strategic gallery of images that work hard across a range of opportunities without confusing your brand. Yes, friend, YOU are your brand! And you’re an amazing one! As a former actress, I can say how incredible it feels when you get fresh headshots that make you feel so excited about the work you do and super confident to start sharing them with casting agents and at auditions.

Okay, we’ve talked about some of the types of acting headshot poses that you want to create for your portfolio. But just standing in front of a camera and posing doesn’t necessarily seal the deal on nailing the pose. So, I want to share with you 10 essential pro tips for acting headshot poses that stand out and ensure you show up confidently to your headshot session and create strong, compelling images:

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10 Essential Acting Headshot Pro Tips

1. Know Your Type
I mentioned this one earlier! Before you even step in front of the lens, get clear on your casting type. Are you the witty best friend? The high-powered CEO? The backyard BBQ dad? The hero or the villain? The lawyer? The detective? The creative techie? The love interest? The blue collar mom? The troubled teen? Knowing this will guide your expressions, posture, and energy, and most importantly help you create on point acting headshots that get you called in to audition again and again for those key roles you are perfect for.

2. Lead with the Eyes
Your eyes tell the story. A genuine connection through your eyes creates trust and intrigue—two things casting directors are always looking for.

3. Relax and Shake it Out
Awkward body language or tension in your jaw can make you look stiff or forced. Breathe, unclench, and let your natural expression settle in. Take a moment in between a series of images your photographer captures to shake it all out and come back fresh. Don’t be afraid to blow out your lips to help relax your face and reset. (I know it can feel silly for some people so I, as the photographer, will typically demonstrate this first for my client and then we’ll do it together.)

4. Play with Subtle Expression
You don’t need big, dramatic faces. A slight eyebrow raise or a soft smirk can suggest character and emotional range in a powerful, nuanced way.

5. Use Your Angles
Straight-on poses are standard, but subtle shifts in your face or body – like a tilt or turn – add dimension and variety. These small changes help highlight your best features.

6. Lean In (Just a Bit)
A slight forward lean reads as confident, connected, and engaged. It draws the viewer in and gives your headshot more energy. It also creates a more flattering angle for many body types. 

7. Master the Micro-Movements
Tiny movements matter. A tilt of the chin, a softening of the mouth, or adjusting your shoulder position can transform the entire feel of an acting headshot pose.

8. Mix it Up
Even if you are more of a commercial or comedic actor, make sure you are getting a good mix of natural smiles and laughs as well as a few more serious or mouth closed images. Remember to use those eyes and get a range of expressions.

9. Practice Makes Comfortable
Yes, practice in front of the mirror. Get familiar with how your face and body move. It’ll help you feel less awkward and more confident during your acting headshot session. HOWEVER, don’t get so locked into a specific pose or facial expression that YOU think looks good, but that keeps you from taking direction from your photographer who may be needing to adjust you for the best camera angle.

10. Work With a Photographer Who Understands the Industry
Acting headshots are not the same as corporate or editorial portraits. A great actor headshot photographer doesn’t just understand lighting and angles—they know what casting directors are looking for, how to coach subtle expressions, and how to help you show up as your most castable self. They’ll help you create a gallery that doesn’t just look good, but works in the context of the acting world. Ask to see samples of actor work, talk about your goals, and make sure they’re someone who understands both the art and strategy behind a strong acting headshot.

You made it to the end, and I hope you’re feeling more confident, informed, and inspired! You’ve got this. Your next acting headshot session is a chance to truly show up as your best self—and I believe in you. Keep refining your craft, stay true to your unique essence, and remember: your headshots are working just as hard as you are.

Want to keep learning? Check out this post: Choosing the Right Actor Headshot Photographer

And if you’re looking for a photographer in the Boston area who understands both the art and industry of acting headshots, I’d love to work with you. Let’s create images that feel like you, and help you get seen for the roles you’re meant for. Reach out here to start planning your session!