Actor Headshot
Our all-inclusive headshot session is designed to work with you, from beginning to end, to ensure we capture the essence of who you are.
from beginning to end, to ensure we capture the essence of who you are
Chicago Actor Headshots That Get You in the Room
Your headshot is your calling card. Before a casting director hears your voice or sees your range, they see your photo — and in a fraction of a second, they decide whether to keep looking. That's why your actor headshot needs to do more than look polished. It needs to feel like *you*.
At Gretchen Kelley Photography, every actor headshot session is built around one goal: capturing the most authentic, confident version of who you are. With a bachelor's in Media and Theatre Arts and over 15 years behind the camera, I understand what casting directors in Chicago and beyond are looking for — and how to help you deliver it.
What to Expect During Your Session
Every actor headshot session begins with a pre-shoot consultation where we talk about your type, the roles you're pursuing, and the looks you want to capture. Whether you need a warm commercial headshot, a dramatic theatrical look, or something in between, we'll plan your session around what will serve your career best.
On the day of your shoot, you'll get up to four looks — giving you the versatility to submit for a wide range of roles. We shoot with both studio lighting and natural light, depending on the mood and style we're going for. Throughout the session, I'll guide you through expressions and energy so that nothing feels stiff or forced. The goal is to get you out of your head and into the moment.
What's Included
Your actor headshot session at $550 includes everything you need to walk away with images you're proud of: a pre-shoot consultation, four looks, a shareable password-protected viewing gallery, all color-balanced high-resolution images, and two fully edited and retouched photos of your choosing. Hair and makeup services are recommended and available at an additional cost.
Not sure which style you need? Commercial headshots lean approachable and friendly — think warm smile, open energy, the kind of face you'd see in a TV ad. Theatrical headshots are more intense and cinematic, with deeper contrast and a serious or contemplative expression suited for film and stage work. Most actors benefit from having both in their portfolio, and our four-look session gives you room to cover that range.
How Often Should You Update Your Headshots?
The general rule in Chicago's acting community is every one to two years — or sooner if your appearance has changed. If the person who walks into the audition room doesn't match the photo on the casting table, that's a problem.
Keeping your headshots current keeps you competitive.
A Studio Built for Actors
Our studio is located at 4001 N Ravenswood Ave, Suite 504, in Chicago's Ravenswood neighborhood — just a block from the Irving Park Brown Line stop with free street parking out front.
It's a relaxed, creative space designed to help you feel comfortable and bring your best energy to the session.