By Rose Savannah Brand
•
June 5, 2025
In the world of acting and modeling, your headshot is your calling card. It’s often your first impression, your audition before the audition, and the image that casting directors, agents, and clients will associate with your name. That’s why a high-quality, authentic, and professionally guided headshot session can make all the difference. At Savannah Brand Photography, one of the leading photography studios in Savannah, GA, we understand the power of a great headshot—and we’re here to help you look your absolute best. Whether you’re just starting or updating your portfolio, here are our top headshot tips for actors and models who want to stand out and get booked. Know Your Brand (Yes, You Have One!) Before you even step in front of the camera, it’s essential to understand your brand. Are you the edgy type? The girl or guy next door? A high-fashion model? A commercial actor? Consider the roles or campaigns you'd like to be cast in, and ensure your headshots reflect that vibe. At Savannah Brand Photography, we help our clients identify and communicate their brand through practical expression, styling, and posing. Pro Tip: Bring a few adjectives with you that describe your look or ideal roles—think quirky, confident, intense, charming. We’ll help bring that essence to life. Choose the Right Outfits Wardrobe choices are crucial. Your clothes should complement your look, not overpower it. Solid colors generally work best, and textures add interest without distraction. Avoid busy patterns, loud logos, or anything too trendy that might date your photo. For actors, bring 2–4 shirt options that represent different character styles (e.g., business casual, casual chic, rugged, or upscale). Models should consider more fashion-forward outfits to showcase the range. As a trusted photo studio in Savannah, GA, we help you select wardrobe combinations that flatter your features and align with your industry goals. Grooming & Self-Care Matter While retouching can smooth out minor blemishes, nothing beats healthy skin, styled hair, and clean grooming in real life. Actors & male models: Facial hair should be intentional—either cleanly shaved or neatly groomed. Female models and actors: Opt for light, natural makeup unless a more dramatic look suits your brand. Hydrate, get good sleep and avoid salty foods or alcohol the night before your session. We also offer add-on hair and makeup services from camera-ready specialists—ideal for clients seeking a polished result. Practice Expression in the Mirror The best headshots Savannah actors and models can have to show subtle shifts in emotion—friendly, intense, confident, and curious. Practice different expressions in the mirror. What does “approachable but confident” look like on you? Our signature posing and expression coaching at Savannah Brand Photography brings out your authentic personality and emotional range, whether you're aiming for theater, fashion, film, or print. Eyes Are Everything In a headshot, the eyes tell the story. They need to be alive, present, and intentional. That doesn’t mean just staring—it means channeling a feeling or character with your gaze. A great photographer knows how to pull that out of you. During your session with Savannah Brand Photography, we’ll keep things relaxed, fun, and focused. Hence, your eyes reflect exactly who you are. Don’t Forget About Posture and Posing Even with tight cropping, posture still matters. A forward, lean, and relaxed posture, along with proper shoulder and chin position, can transform your look. Avoid stiffness or slouching—this is where working with a team experienced in headshots in Savannah, GA, really pays off. We employ subtle micro-posing techniques to accentuate your best angles without compromising authenticity. Keep Your Portfolio Fresh The entertainment and modeling industries are constantly evolving—and so is your look. If you've made noticeable changes to your hair, style, or typecast, it’s time for an update. As a rule of thumb: Actors should update their headshots every 1–2 years. Models may need updates even more often, depending on agency expectations. Our photography studio in Savannah, GA, offers portfolio-building sessions with multiple looks and locations to keep your materials fresh and compelling. Trust the Editing—but Don’t Overdo It Retouching is essential, but subtlety is key. Casting directors want to recognize you when you walk in the room, not your overly filtered social media self. At Savannah Brand Photography, we offer clean, natural edits that highlight your best features without changing your unique identity. We provide both high-res and web-optimized versions, perfect for casting websites, social platforms, and print portfolios. Be Yourself—Seriously Authenticity wins. When you’re relaxed and authentic to yourself, your headshots radiate confidence and personality. Our sessions are designed to be stress-free and collaborative. We take the time to understand your story, make you laugh, and deliver images that feel like you. You'll walk away with a diverse gallery that reflects your full potential. Work with a Photographer Who Gets It Not all photographers understand the unique needs of actors and models. You need someone who can coach you through expression, stay current with casting trends, and build a session tailored to your brand. At Savannah Brand Photography, we specialize in headshots that talent in Savannah, GA, can trust. Our clients choose us for our eyes, experience, and our ability to make them feel seen and confident in front of the lens. Whether you're preparing for your next big audition or refreshing your model comp card, we're here to help you succeed. Ready to Book Your Headshot Session? If you’re ready to refresh your portfolio, make a killer first impression, and elevate your career, Savannah Brand Photography is here for you. Located in Savannah, Georgia, our photo studio provides headshots tailored to working and aspiring talent across the region. We’re proud to be among the top e-commerce photographers in Georgia, offering a blend of artistry, professionalism, and personal attention. Visit www.savannahbrandphotography.com to view our portfolio or book your session. Questions? Reach out at hello@savannahbrandphotography.com or DM us on Instagram @savannahbrandphotography. Let’s create something unforgettable, starting with your headshot.
