Commercial vs Theatrical Headshots

In this guide, we’ll be discussing everything you need to know about commercial vs theatrical headshots.

We’ll be covering the following topics (click on a bullet point to jump to that section):

What is a Commercial Headshot?

A commercial headshot is a portrait of an actor or model for use in marketing and commercial purposes such as TV commercials, magazines, and billboards.

The most important aspects of commercial headshots include:

• Anticipating the light source and angling yourself to create shadows that define facial features and carve out cheekbones, etc.
• Using your hands to create symmetry in the frame, drawing attention to your eyes and face.
• Maintaining a neutral facial expression or a smile (often a smile with teeth), with a slight squint in the eyes.

What is a Theatrical Headshot?

A theatrical headshot showcases an actor’s range of emotions with close-up shots of their face. It includes a close-up portrait and an action shot, which allows the director to see the actor’s ability to transform for a role.

It should include:

• A variety of looks that showcase range or show a specific detail of the actor/actress’ appearance (ex., piercing eyes, sharp jaw, full lips, etc.)
• A headshot that is one color and an action shot in black and white (or another color).

6 Differences Between Commercial and Theatrical Headshots

These 6 differences are what is usually seen, but not hard-set differences.

1. Setting

Commercial headshots tend to be taken in a studio setting, while theatrical headshots are usually shot on location or outside the studio environment.

2. Emotion and Expression

Commercial headshots include neutral expressions or smiles with a slight squint, theatrical headshots show range of emotions.

3. Purpose

A commercial headshots’ purpose is for commercial, marketing, and resume purposes. Therefore, a neutral expression or a slight smile with a squint is often preferred.

In contrast, theatrical headshots should include a variety of looks to show range or detail specific features of your appearance.

4. Crop

Commercial headshots are (usually) taken from a straight-on angle, directly at head level and theatrical headshots are taken from shoulder up.

5. Details and Range

Commercial headshots are sleek and simple, typically with close-up shots of the face. Theatre headshots on the other hand should include a variety of looks and specific details (hair and makeup included) to show range.

6. Distance

Commercial headshots are typically taken close to the face, while theatre headshots can be taken from any distance.

However, it is not recommended to include shots that are too far away because they may make the actor/actress appear unrecognizable.

To further explore the differences between the two, we also recommend this video by NGM Modeling:

How Can I Get Both Types of Photographs?

If you’re looking to get both a commercial and theatrical shoot while trying to maximize your cost or time efficiency:

You will want to book a professional photographer. The cost of this shoot (as a minimum) will be around $100-400, depending on the photographer and experience level.

When Should I Get Each One?

You usually get both taken at the same time so you can have both with you depending on the role you are going for.

When To Get a Commercial Headshot

You want to schedule your commercial shoot around the time you’re starting to do more auditions and meeting with agents and managers.

This typically happens when actors start booking commercials and print ads, but it varies from person to person.

When to Get a Theatrical Headshot

You want to schedule your theatrical headshot shoot around the time you’re doing more auditions as well.

Final Remarks

We hope you enjoyed this guide on commercial vs theatrical headshots.

This guide is also a part of our Headshot Photography Hub, so be sure to check that out for further headshot photography tips and insights.