A parent’s guide to headshots that casting directors notice

If you’re raising a young actor, you already know that headshots are more than just “school picture day with better lighting.” A headshot is your child’s calling card in the entertainment industry. It’s the very first impression a casting director, agent, or manager will have of your child - and it can be the deciding factor in whether they click “yes” to bring your star in for an audition.
But for many parents stepping into this world, the headshot process can feel overwhelming. You may be wondering: What makes a good headshot? How do I find the right photographer? What should my child wear? And perhaps the scariest thought of all: What if I spend all this money and end up with photos that don’t get my child called in?

And here’s the tricky part: not all headshot photographers are created equal. As a Momager, you need to know what to look for, what questions to ask, and how to prepare your child for the experience so you’re not left with an expensive batch of photos that don’t actually get them in the door.

Let’s break it down.

1. Why Professional Headshots Matter

Casting is fast-paced. A casting director might be scrolling through hundreds of submissions in a single morning (for just one role). Your child has maybe two seconds to make an impression. The right headshot helps your child’s personality leap off the screen.

Professional headshots are specifically crafted for the industry. They’re framed properly, lit in a way that flatters, and directed so your child looks natural, not posed. This is not the time for a school portrait, a cell phone snapshot, or that cute beach picture you love. Think of them as the photo version of their acting resume that opens the door to opportunity.  You want them to be high quality.

2. Choosing the Right Photographer

Look for Industry Experience

There are many talented photographers, but you want one who knows the entertainment industry, especially for kids. A wedding photographer might be wonderful at capturing moments, but headshots are a different world. Ask to see a portfolio of children’s headshots - not just adults. Kids have different needs when it comes to direction and comfort.

Read Reviews and Ask Around

The parent grapevine is golden here. Ask other theatre moms, your child’s agent (if they have one), or check local Facebook acting groups. In bigger markets like New York, LA, or Atlanta, there are go-to names everyone knows. In smaller markets, you’ll need to dig a little more.

MOMAGER PRO TIP: If you find yourself in a situation where someone has sold you a bill of goods that sounds anything  like “Part of taking classes with us requires getting headshots taken by our photographer” – RUN.  Taking headshots should NEVER be a requirement for being trained as an actor.  Unfortunately, there are plenty of people out there who see promises of fame and fortune (because you took their classes, paid for their headshots, etc.) as a way to take other people’s hard-earned money, but DO NOT fall for it.  Reputable acting studios may have headshot photographers they recommend, but they should never be required.  Now, are headshots required if you want to work with an agent or manager?  1,000%.  They can’t promote your child’s talents if they don’t have a photo, but even then, reputable agencies will recommend various photographers you can work with, not require you to work with a particular one.

Consider Style

Every photographer has a signature style. Some are bright and natural, others are moody and dramatic. Neither is right or wrong - but you want to choose someone whose style aligns with the types of roles your child auditions for. For example, Disney Channel hopefuls usually benefit from warm, vibrant shots, while more serious dramatic roles might require something a little moodier.

3. Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking

4. How many looks are included? (A “look” = an outfit/background change.) Kids typically need at least 2: one commercial-friendly (with a smile that shows their teeth) and one theatrical (more serious expression, mouth closed).
5. How long is the session? If you’ve done your homework and chosen the “looks” you want to photograph along with coordinated wardrobe selections, you shouldn’t need more than 60-90 minutes.  You don’t want your 10-year-old to be expected to last through a four-hour marathon.
6. Do you provide a hair and makeup artist? Some photographers include this, but for kids, less is more. You want them to look like themselves.  Plus, in this industry, younger looking is always better, so avoid ANYTHING that makes your child look older, including makeup, hairstyle, clothing, facial expressions, poses, etc.
7. What’s included in the package? Retouching? Digital files? Prints? All you really need are the digital files, with light retouching for things like flyaway hairs or a random facial blemish (teen pimples are real).  There are multiple places online to make print copies if you actually need them, so clarify as far as what you’re getting before you commit.
8. What’s the turnaround time? You don’t want to wait six weeks when you have auditions around the corner.

4. How to Prepare Your Child

Wardrobe

Keep it simple. Solid colors (jewel tones are great), no logos (they can create brand conflicts), no busy patterns (a plaid shirt under a jacket is okay). Layers (like a jean jacket over a tee or that plaid shirt) can add texture. Bring multiple options and let the photographer help narrow down what works.

Grooming

Keep hair natural. Avoid fancy up-dos or dramatic styling that doesn’t reflect their everyday look. Same with makeup - if your child wears any, keep it minimal. If they’re pre-puberty no makeup is best. Casting directors want to see the real kid, NOT a mini pageant contestant.  Think about it, do the kids on the Target commercial on your TV look like pageant beauties?  No.  They look like kids having regular kid fun.  Your child’s headshot should reflect the same vibe.

Sleep and Snacks

A tired, cranky child makes for rough headshots. Make sure they’re well-rested, and pack snacks that won’t stain clothes (think pretzels, grapes, or granola bars).  Make sure they’re hydrated (with water, not anything red or blue that will stain their mouth or lips).

5. Understanding Retouching

A little polish is fine - like removing a temporary blemish - but be cautious of over-editing. Casting directors want authenticity. If your child has freckles, those freckles need to stay. The goal is an honest but polished representation of how your child looks walking into a room.

6. Cost: What to Expect

Headshots are an investment. Prices vary by market, but in general:

• Smaller regional markets: $150–$400
• Mid-sized markets (Atlanta, Chicago): $300–$700
• Major markets (NYC, LA): $600–$1,200+

Remember: the most expensive doesn’t always mean the best. You’re looking for fit, not just price.

7. When to Update Headshots

Children grow and change quickly, which means their headshots need updating more often than adults’. A good rule of thumb:

• Every 12 months, or
• Anytime your child has a significant change in appearance (haircut, braces on/off, growth spurt).

If a casting director can’t recognize your child when they walk in the room, the headshot isn’t doing its job.

8. What Happens After the Shoot

Once you receive the proofs, you’ll need to select the final images. Pro tip: don’t just pick the one where you think your child looks “cutest.” Instead, choose the shots where they look like themselves - confident, approachable, and authentic.

From there, upload them to casting sites like Actor’s Access, Casting Networks, and Backstage. If your child has an agent or manager, alert them so they can upload them to their systems.

Final Thoughts

Headshots are not just pictures. They’re your child’s first chance to say, “Here I am - see me.” As a Momager, your job is to make sure those photos represent your child at their very best: natural, confident, and professional.

Done right, headshots will be one of the best investments you make in your child’s performing journey. They open doors, get your child seen, and set the stage for that all-important audition.

So take the time to choose the right photographer, prepare thoughtfully, and keep those photos current. It’s one more way you’re helping your star shine.  You’ve got this!