Jose Lara Photography

Acting & Performance

Actor Headshots Near Los Angeles

Commercial & theatrical looks in one session — 45 minutes from Hollywood.

Your headshot is your calling card. Casting directors flip through hundreds of submissions — a compelling, authentic headshot is what gets you in the room. I shoot both commercial and theatrical looks so you have the range to submit for any role.

CallorText(805) 669-8062
Professional actor headshot photographer near Los Angeles
87 Five-Star Reviews on Google
100+ Clients Served
Same-Day Previews
Love Your Photos or I'll Reshoot Free

What Casting Directors Actually Want to See

I've worked with actors at every stage of their career — from first headshots to refreshes for working actors. Here's what matters.

Authenticity Over Perfection

Casting directors want to see YOU — not heavy retouching, dramatic filters, or a version of you that doesn't walk into the audition room. I keep it real.

Eyes That Tell a Story

The best actor headshots have life behind the eyes. I direct you through subtle expressions and emotional shifts so your photos show range, not just a pose.

Current and Accurate

Your headshot needs to look like you TODAY. Same hair, same weight, same energy. When you walk into the room, they should recognize you instantly.

Actor Headshots From My Studio

Theatrical, commercial, and character looks — all shot in my Camarillo studio, just off the 101.

Actor headshot - theatrical look
Actress headshot - commercial look
Actor headshot - leading man type
Actress headshot - dramatic look
Actress and model headshot
Performer headshot - dancer and actress

Theatrical vs. Commercial — You Need Both

Theatrical Headshot

  • Intense, dramatic, or emotionally charged
  • Shows depth and range as a performer
  • Darker, moodier lighting is common
  • Best for film, TV drama, and theater submissions
  • Casting directors want to see your raw ability

Commercial Headshot

  • Warm, approachable, and friendly
  • Natural smile — the "person next door" look
  • Bright, clean lighting with simple backgrounds
  • Best for commercials, print ads, and hosting
  • Brands want someone relatable and likeable

Most actors need at least one of each. I coach you through both looks in a single session.

Commercial Acting Headshots

Commercial acting headshots are the most commonly requested look — and the most misunderstood. Here's exactly what they are and why they matter.

What Commercial Acting Headshots Are For

Commercial acting headshots are submitted for TV commercials, print ads, web content, corporate videos, and hosting gigs. They're what casting directors look for when they need the friendly neighbor, the approachable doctor, the relatable parent — a real person a brand wants representing their product.

What Makes a Strong Commercial Headshot

Warm expression, genuine smile, clean lighting, simple background. The goal is approachable and real — not stiff or overly posed. I direct you through natural expressions so the warmth reads as authentic, not forced. Commercial headshots that look too polished or too perfect actually work against you.

Commercial vs. Theatrical: Shot in One Session

Most actors need both commercial and theatrical looks — and both can be captured in a single session. Commercial headshots for ads and brand work, theatrical headshots for drama and film. I coach you through each look so you walk out with the range to submit for any role, any type, any casting call.

What Your Actor Headshot Session Includes

Direction for theatrical and commercial looks
Multiple wardrobe changes welcome
Professional studio lighting and backgrounds
Expression coaching for range and authenticity
Live tethered review — see your images on screen as we shoot
Retouched finals — natural, not overdone
Files formatted for casting submissions

How It Works

Step 1: Book Your Session

My studio is in Camarillo — a quick drive from LA without the traffic or parking headaches. Pick a time that works for you.

Step 2: We Shoot Multiple Looks

Bring 2-3 wardrobe options. We'll work through theatrical and commercial looks with full direction so you're not guessing at expressions.

Step 3: Get Your Selects

Review your favorites together. Retouched finals delivered within 24-48 hours — clean, natural retouching that looks like you on your best day.

Actor Headshots Near Los Angeles — Without the LA Price Tag

My studio in Camarillo is 45 minutes from Hollywood on the 101 — close enough to be convenient, far enough to skip the $30 parking and 2-hour commute. LA-quality headshots at a fraction of the cost you'd pay at a Hollywood or Silver Lake studio.

Hollywood
~45 min
Burbank
~40 min
Santa Monica
~50 min
Thousand Oaks
~15 min

850 Calle Plano Suite N, Camarillo, CA 93012 • Right off the 101

Pricing

Simple, Transparent Pricing

Every package includes a 1-hour session with expert coaching.

Starter

$349

2 retouched images

Most Popular

Professional

$499

5 retouched images

Best Value

Executive

$799

8 retouched images

Every package includes:

  • 1-hour professional session
  • Professional coaching & posing direction
  • Multiple backgrounds & outfit changes
  • Live tethered review — every shot on screen as we shoot
  • Same-day selection gallery — pick your favorites before the day is over
  • Additional retouched images: $95 each

100% satisfaction guarantee — love your photos or I'll reshoot for free.

Sessions available now — book today.

Testimonials

What My Clients Are Saying

Real feedback from professionals I've worked with

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I'll Call You Within 2 Hours

Have questions about your session? Leave your name and number and I'll reach out personally.

You Are One Headshot Session Away

Let's create professional headshots that make you feel confident and look incredible.

Sessions available now — book today.

★ Love Your Photos Guarantee — free reshoot if you're not happy, no questions asked.