How Knowing Your Type Helps You Book More Acting Jobs

One of the most common questions actors ask before a headshot session is: “What should I wear? How should I pose? What do they want to see?”

The truth is, casting directors don’t want to see a version of you that doesn’t exist. They want to see the real you...but the right version of you.

That’s where knowing your type comes in.

Two contrasting actor headshot types: edgy corporate professional and relaxed creative look — NYC headshot by Rod Goodman.Two contrasting actor headshot types, strong confident business professional and relaxed creative photographed by NYC headshot specialist Rod Goodman.

Why “Type” Matters

• Casting directors see thousands of headshots every week. If you’ve ever seen casting agents going through headshots and how quickly they do it, you’d be shocked! You have literally a second's view.
• A clear, authentic type makes you memorable. Head over to actor headshot NY page if you want to see more more examples.
• Confusion kills, don’t try to be everything to everyone. Do you wear a beard? To casting folks, now you’re “Beard Guy,” so maybe consider getting headshots done clean-shaven (if you’re willing) or, if not, then embrace “Beard Guy.” Stereotypes are not a bad thing...they’re work!

How to Figure Out Your Type

• Ask trusted coaches, teachers, or peers for feedback.

• Ask people you trust how they see you. This is a powerful exercise, give it a try!

• Look at the roles you consistently book or get called back for.

• Take note of the actors that are booking the jobs you want, look through IMDB to see what those actors are using for their actors headshot.

• Think beyond looks, consider vibe, energy, nuance, presence.

• Are you a character: the best friend, the nosy neighbor, the snooty housewife? Go for it, because again type casting is not a dirty word, it's work!

How to Show It in Your Headshots

• Wardrobe: Choose colors and styles that reflect your type (but still feel like you). Bring more than you think you need. Options are a good thing.

• Expression: Don’t overact, but do bring intention. Less is always better. This is camera work, not theater acting. Let it come from within. Contain it. Headshots are just another form of acting. This aspect is one of the most important parts of creating “the shot” and where your relationship with your photographer becomes key.

• Connection: Communicate your type to your photographer so they can guide you. Bring examples. Tell your rep or acting coach that you're getting your headshots done and ask for their thoghts and or advice on type. If your best friend has a shot that gets her called in constantly, show your photographer! This is a collaboration,  the more info you can provide, the better your results will be.

Why Authenticity Still Wins

• Don’t force yourself into a box that doesn’t feel right.

• You can have range, but each headshot should feel true.

• The best headshots open doors because they feel honest.

If you’re ready to book a headshot session that helps you show your true type and your best self,  get in touch here.

Written by Rod Goodman