Professions That Can Benefit from Headshots

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By The Light Committee

There can be a lot to know about headshots. For example, what is one exactly? It can mean very different things to a lot of different people. And, what is the difference between a headshot and a portrait? Sure, there are various factors that compel a difference between a professional headshot and just a selfie or portrait. Mainly this is because a headshot is made by a professional to be used by a professional for professional reasons. So, what are some examples?

Actor Commercial and Theatrical Studio Headshots
The Difference Between a Commercial Headshot and Theatrical Headshot Are Ideally Used by Actors to Be Cast for Different Types of Roles

Who Needs a Headshot?

So, you’re wondering if you could use professional headshots? It’s very likely that you could. It’s harder to make the case to not get one than it is to get a professional headshot. There are many scientific, traditional, and modern reasons why.

Let’s throw some scientific points at you. Content with visuals get 94 percent more views. And, 40 percent of people respond to visual information better than they do to plain text. And, LinkedIn profiles with photos get 21 times more views and 36 times more messages. Other such statistics as to the importance of an image are available but a few points should make the point. So, if it’s obvious that a headshot to accompany any text – your bio, resume, profile, etc. – is very important, then who are some of the professions it’s important for?

Actor Headshots

Actors need headshots for their careers. Headshots are essentially the core of their resume. Sure, they need to list relevant experience on their resume like everyone else but, their look is essential. A good headshot for an actor is everything.

Typically, most actors will need at least a commercial headshot and a dramatic / theatrical headshot. The difference between these two shots should be clear. The commercial headshot is commonly well and evenly lit with a bright cheery background. A theatrical headshot goes for dramatic looks. Often, part of the face is in shadow and the background might also be darker. The two photos are used for submitting to casting directors for two very different roles.

Dancer Headshots and Musician Headshots

A dancer might need a headshot to submit for auditions or to use for general marketing. In most cases, this headshot will be much like an actor’s commercial headshots. This headshot will often also be from around the chest or shoulders up, though a full-body shot might not be out of the question.

A dancer headshot of a woman in a dress in studio near Los Angeles
A Common Style for a Dancer Headshot for Submitting During Auditions

Musician headshots can take on several different looks in that they are often more artistically creative. As a result, a musician might seek headshots that take on a commercial look to colorful moody looks to take advantage of the many promotional channels a musician might encounter.

A musician photo shoot of a woman and her mic for promotional materials
Musician Headshots Can Take on Much More Creative Liberties as They Can Be Used Across Many Promotional Channels

Other creatives can also benefit from headshots. They include authors, speakers, podcasters, and more. Basically, if you’re in the creative industry with even a remote need to brand or market yourself as an individual, you should consider having a professional headshot made.

Corporate Headshots

Corporate headshots – also commonly referred to as business headshots or executive headshots – can also vary widely. As with any other headshot, the photo has a lot to say about you. It’s important to get it right. The biggest difference with a corporate headshot compared to other types of headshots is that they tend to be more conservative overall. What does this mean?

A business headshot is usually against a neutral color background, such as a shade of gray. The person will usually wear business attire too. Some professionals opt for business casual, depending on their field. So, what are some top professions that get professional headshots?

  • Accountants, financial manager, or banking executive
  • Actors
  • Attorney or lawyer
  • CEOs
  • Consultants
  • Creative directors
  • Dentist
  • Directors
  • Doctor
  • Engineer
  • ERAS medical residency applicant
  • IT manager or other tech executive
  • Loan officer
  • Models
  • Pilot
  • Psychologist, psychiatrist or therapist
  • Real estate agent or Realtor
  • Registered nurse
  • Sales manager
  • Vice presidents, managing directors, etc.

The list could go on and on.

doctor headshot made on site in Woodland Hills, CA
A Classic Corporate Headshot Pulling Off a Clean, Crisp Look Against a Grayish Background

Business Portrait vs Lifestyle Headshot

A business portrait and lifestyle headshot are essentially the same. The goal of this shot is to capture the person in their business element, to convey the profession they are in. However, a lifestyle headshot is extended to actors, models, musicians, and dancers to the roles they want to be in.

Headshots for realtors of a woman working from her laptop made in Los Angeles
A Business Portrait Can Be Used to Capture and Illustrate the Profession of a Person or Their Professionalism in General
A cinematic headshot made of a Los Angeles movie director
A Lifestyle Headshot Can Be Used to Help Brands or Casting Directors More Closely Imagine You for a Particular Shoot or Role

Getting Professional Headshots in Los Angeles

A headshot is an important thing for many reasons. As a result, if you’re serious about using them for career purposes, you should turn to a professional. Never use a selfie. It shows and is a direct reflection on your professionalism and level of quality in your work. While some people might be tempted to do a selfie anyway because of expenses, headshots can be affordable. In addition, the collaboration with a headshot photographer will help you achieve the type of headshot you’re after.