Commercial headshots can best be characterized by having a warm, friendly, well groomed look, with a nice smile. Theatrical headshots are less "commercial" looking with more elements of your true character as a person - generally more serious looking than a commercial headshot. Commercial headshots typically consist of a flattering image of the head or head & upper torso (called a 3/4 Shot) clearly displaying eyes, nose, mouth, ears and hair in simple, direct lighting. This is the image that shows what “you” look like and is often, but not always, the more casual appearing headshot of the three. A successful Commercial headshot will not only show you relaxed and at your best, but will more importantly capture and convey your energy, your personality. This headshot is the heart of your photo portfolio and is typically the type of photo that film and television casting directors, producers and agents want to see accompany your resume.
However, we have seen a trend in the past several years where advertisers are using "real people" in commercials. And sometimes, they really are "real" people, literally off the streets. But usually, they are actors who have learned how to act "real" in a certain "commercial way". There are talent agencies who specialize in just this sort of commercial actor. And schools who will train the man or woman off the street with just enough "technique" to keep them from tripping over the cables in the studio, or looking directly in the camera lens when they're not supposed to, but not enough to make them look like actors, because looking like an actor is not what certain ad agencies want in certain commercials anymore.
It is important that your headshot look exactly like you. If you send a picture to a Casting Director or agent and you get called in, and you don’t look like your headshot, you automatically lose. However if your picture looks exactly like you and they call you in... well, then, YOU are exactly who they are interested in. So, now that you're in the door, all you have to do is 'Knock them down' with your audition
One of the most famous lines spoken by a casting director: holding up a heavily retouched headshot and asked the actress "Uh... did you bring this girl with you? " Headshots must represent what you look like. I can not stress this strongly enough.
Commercial Resume Information:
Do you need a commercial acting resume?
NO!
When you submit your headshot and resume for a commercial audition, you should use the same resume you use for any other acting audition.
Some actors like to have a commercial section on their resume with the mention "List available upon request".
Auditions for new ABC Family telefilm "Revenge of the Bridesmaids"
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ABC Family is currently holding auditions for a new telefilm titled "Revenge
of the Bridesmaids". Casting information for the actors and extras is now
avai...
