COMMERCIAL HEADSHOTS

Commercial/comedy/sit-com headshots

Unlike Theatrical Headshots which can have a more serious and "raw" feel to them, Commercial headshots are for advertisement and casting opportunities for commercials so they then to be brighter and expressions are warmer and overall. They also transfer over well into sit-coms, dark-comedies, stand-up comedy and most genres. There is a forward energy and relatability as well as a more specific character accessibility that shows a fun or quirky energy or edge. Commercials play all over the country so Commercial Headshots tend to be more conservative as far as wardrobe goes (not too sexy) and generally warm or with a hint of a secret or small smile. Your commercial headshots is almost never printed so the thumbnail really needs to pop when it is submitted online by your agent.

Commercial headshots can be bright and cheery or smirky but they are usually on the brighter side and not too shadowy. Agencies, casting directors and managers talk about Headshots "popping" and that just means that your energy and eyes really pull attention in a small thumbnail on casting websites. The process of casting a Commercial happens much faster than a film, so casting is making very quick decisions. Generally, you need to show what you are selling in a broader more specific way with your commercial headshots. Popping a headshot is something your photographer really needs to know how to do. The light needs to balance your skin and hair and background to make sure your eyes and your energy are the focus of the headshot. If you bring a lot of energy into a room, then your commercial headshot should really reflect that. If you are a more subdues, sarcastic, quieter, warmer etc... actor, then your commercial headshot should tell that story.

Your age category will usually help with Headshot "looks." If you are in the "young-mom" or "mom" category, then that should be a look for you. Kids are simpler and should look their age. I am not a fan of little kids wearing suits or being overly dressed up for their actor headshots. Commercials take place in offices, however, wardrobe tends to be more stylized and less conservative for offices. There are lots of "healthy lifestyle" commercials for older actors and bright/colorful quirky style, sports fan, neighbor, consumer, family oriented product commercials for all age actors. You need to know what you could reasonably play. Watching commercials for your "type", talking to your actor friends, agents and teachers will help. Sometimes it is easier to start with categories you are not right for and narrow them down that way.