How Many Headshots Should Actors Have?
If you’re a Cleveland actor preparing for an audition in 2026, you may be asking yourself: how many headshots should actors have? This question is trickier than picking one standout photo and calling it a day. Casting directors these days expect more from their actors, and the difference between showcasing one look vs. showing off multiple looks in your Cleveland actor headshots could mean the difference between booking the gig…or not.
One professional headshot may seem like enough, especially if you’re new to acting. Why pay for more photos than you need? However, actors should have more than one professional headshot for several reasons. You can display your versatility and array of talents when you have more than one headshot. If you show a casting director variety in your looks, they can cast you in many different roles and genres of acting. Below, Cleveland Actor Headshots breaks down why actors should have more than one professional headshot.
Only ONE Actor Headshot? Could One Strong Look Be Enough?
Some actors argue that you only need one look. Well, one great look. Sure, you could create a powerful headshot that truly embodies who you are as an actor and nail your audition with that one photo. If you really believe you have one strong look that fits many roles, then go for it. At the start of your acting career in Cleveland, I recommend starting with more than one look. When you are testing the waters and just starting as a fresh face in Cleveland, it’s wise to spend money on at least 5 different headshots that will represent your brand and build off that look.
Why MOST Actors Have MULTIPLE LOOKS
“If you’re an actor and you only have one headshot, you might as well not send out a headshot at all.”
In 2026, most working actors have at least 5 looks. Let’s discuss why you, as an actor in Cleveland, should have multiple looks.
Commercial vs. Theater Headshots
Your acting headshot should represent you in a way that makes the casting director think when they look at your photo, “Hey, I can cast this actor in a commercial, and they can sell me shoes.” You should be smiling broadly and have a more “light” look in your commercial headshot photo. Theater headshots are typically darker and more mysterious. You want the casting director to look at your headshot and know you can play serious, and even dark roles. Sending a wide-grinned commercial headshot to a talent scout looking to fill drama roles will immediately eliminate you from the audition process.
Casting directors in Cleveland want actors with multiple looks because there is an increasing demand for actors in the area. Ohio has just announced that it is continuing its film incentive program, which means more productions will travel to Cleveland. Not only will there be an influx of movie and TV productions coming to Cleveland, but there are also plenty of commercials being shot around the area for local businesses. Additionally, many theater companies are putting on plays that you could be cast in. By having multiple looks, you allow yourself to be considered for more opportunities.
How Many Actor Headshots Do You NEED?
For theatrical headshots, you will notice darker lighting. The actor will normally wear all black, all white, or dark colored clothing. The dark tone of these photos displays to a casting director that you can go serious and play more intense characters.
Helpful Hint: Our Cleveland actor headshots team also likes to suggest having an actor headshot that highlights the specific type of role you want to book. Maybe you are trying to book commercial jobs, or maybe you look creepy and want to book horror-type roles. Have a headshot that sells that!
Why Casting Directors WANT TO SEE MULTIPLE LOOKS
Remember how I mentioned casting directors are shooting in the dark when they look at actor headshots? If you send them multiple looks, you instantly become more professional in their book. Not only that, but displaying multiple looks shows talent scouts that you are versatile as an actor. You don’t have to audition and prove to them you can play multiple characters; showing them you have different looks is enough proof. Let’s say you are an amazing comedian. Add a headshot to your list that shows casting directors your comedic side.
Actors Should Have HOW MANY LOOKS?
When it comes down to it, I have worked with so many actors who ask me this question, I feel comfortable saying actors should have two looks. But three looks is ideal, four looks is good, but 5 looks is where the booking is at.
If you are serious about acting and want your best chance at booking jobs as an actor in Cleveland. You should have five headshots that you’re cycling through as your quality headshot gets hired. Cleveland Actors choose us!
