Actor Headshots vs. Business Headshots: What’s the Difference?

Actor Headshots vs. Business Headshots: What’s the Difference?

At first glance, a headshot is just a picture of your face — right?

Not quite.

If you're an actor, you need a very different kind of headshot than someone who’s in business, real estate, or applying for jobs.
Let’s break down the difference so you can choose the right one.

🎭 What Is an Actor Headshot?

An actor headshot is made for casting directors.
It shows how you look right now, with natural lighting, simple clothes, and little to no heavy editing.

Casting directors want to see:

• Your natural face shape

• Eye color, hair color, skin tone

• A clear, honest expression

It should look like you, not a retouched version.
No fancy suits, no heavy makeup — just clean, real, and expressive.

💼 What Is a Business Headshot?

A business headshot is made for your professional life.
This includes LinkedIn, resumes, company websites, or speaking events.

You want to look:

• Polished

• Confident

• Friendly

• Trustworthy

For this style, you might wear a blazer, a clean shirt, or something that fits your industry.
Editing is okay here — as long as it still looks like you.

What’s Different About the Posing and Background?

• Actor headshots are often framed tighter — closer to the face.
  The background is simple and doesn’t distract. Expressions can vary slightly depending on the “type” the actor plays (funny, serious, etc.).

• Business headshots might be a bit wider, showing part of your shoulders or chest.
  The background is usually clean or blurred, and the focus is on making a good first impression in the workplace.

🤔 Can I Use One Headshot for Both?

It depends.

If you’re just starting out and only need one photo, we can shoot a style that works in both worlds clean, confident, and neutral.

But if you’re actively acting and working a professional job, it’s best to have one of each.

At TRG Headshots, we can shoot both styles in the same session so you don’t have to choose.

Final Thoughts

Actor headshots and business headshots may look similar but they serve totally different purposes.

Actors need to look real, raw, and castable.
Professionals need to look polished, confident, and ready to lead.

Want to make sure yours fits your goals?

Book your session at TRGHeadshots.com right here in Red Oak.
We’ll guide you to the right look, whether it’s for the stage, the screen, or the boardroom.