Contact Information
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First Name
Last Name
Agency
*
Role
Email
*
Phone
(###)
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Your Casting/Representation Specialty
(Tick all that apply)
Film
Television
Commercials
Musical Theatre
Stage / Theatre (non-musical)
Dancers
Singers / Musicians
Voiceover
Models
Variety / Specialty Acts
Children / Young Performers
Other (please specify) ...
What do you personally look for in a great headshot?
What are the biggest mistakes you commonly see in headshots?
(Tick all that apply)
Over-retouched / unrealistic skin
Poor lighting / shadowing
Doesn't look like the performer
Distracting styling or wardrobe
Lack of emotion or connection
Generic / lacks personality
Wrong crop / size image
Outdated photo
Other (please specify) ...
How important is it that a headshot reflects the performer's current look (eg hair, age, styling)
Not Important — I can work with some variation
Important — nice to have, but not critical
Neutral — depends on the project or performer
Important — it should be a fairly accurate representation
Absolutely Essential — it must reflect how they currently look
How much does the quality of a headshot impact your decision to shortlist or request an audition?
Not at all
Minimal influence
Some influence, but not a dealbreaker
Strong influence on my perception
Extremely influential in decision-making
What types of "looks" do you prefer to see from a performer's headshots?
(Tick all that apply)
One clear, authentic image that feels like "them"
A few contrasting looks showing emotional range
Looks that hint at casting potential (eg "tough guy", "girl next door", "corporate" etc.)
Light character-based looks (subtle and real)
Stylised or overt character shots (eg detective, villain, royal, martial arts etc.)
I prefer neutral shots — I'll imagine the roles myself
Comments or clarification (please specify) ...
How much makeup do you think is appropriate for headshots?
(Please consider performers of all genders and ages. Tick all that apply or add comments)
Very minimal — clean skin, real features
Light makeup to enhance natural features
Camera-ready, polished look (still realistic)
Age-appropriate approach is key
Depends on the performer's brand or role type
Makeup-free preferred for some submissions (eg children)
Comments or clarification (please specify)...
Do you prefer smiling or non-smiling headshots — or a mix?
(Tick all that apply or comment below)
Natural, relaxed smile prefered
Neutral expression preferred
A mix of both expressions is ideal
It depends on the performer's brand or casting type
Comments or specific preferences (please specify) ...
What are your preferences around background and lighting in headshots?
(Tick all that apply or comment below)
Neutral, studio-style backgrounds (grey, black, white)
Soft natural lighting
Controlled studio lighting with clarity and contrast
Environmental / outdoor backgrounds
Blurred backgrounds that focus on the eyes
I'm flexible as long as the lighting is flattering and the image is clean
Comments or specific preferences (please specify) ...
How many different headshots do you prefer to see per performer?
1 clear option only
2-3 strong contrasting looks
4+ if clearly labelled and distinct
It depends on the project
What are your pet peeves when it comes to headshots?
Anything else you'd like performers or photographers to know?
Would you be open to being credited in future educational content (eg headshot prep guides for performers)?
Yes, please credit my by name
Yes, but anonymously
No thanks
Thank you so much for your time and insight. Your input is incredibly valued and vital in helping us better understand what casting professionals truly need in order to establish the perfect ensemble — quickly, effectively, and with ease.
By sharing your perspective, you’re not only helping photographers and performers improve the quality and relevance of their submissions — you’re actively shaping a more efficient, castable, and professional industry standard.