- With over 30 years of acting experience, a personalized approach, and technical photography expertise, I create headshots that truly help you stand out in the industry
- A typical session will last a minimum of 3 hours
- Clients often report great feedback from industry professionals regarding their headshots (“Your headshot looks exactly like you!”) as well as increased industry bookings
- I work with my wife Ann Hamilton (20+ years), a professional makeup artist as well as an accomplished Film and TV actor and audition coach
What Makes a Great Actor Headshot in NYC
Let’s be honest—a great headshot in New York is more than just a nice picture of your face. It’s your calling card and the key to getting in the door. The NYC acting market is highly competitive, with casting directors sifting through hundreds of submissions every day. Your NYC headshots need to make an instant impact.
What sets great headshots apart from just okay ones? It’s not about fancy lighting or even high-end cameras. The best headshots capture something authentic—your personality, your energy—making casting directors think, “I need to meet this person”.
Great NYC headshots are a balance of these 5 aspects:
- Framing & Composition – A professional headshot is typically a close-up, framing the actor from the chest up with the face as the focal point. Eyes should be sharp and engaging.
- Expert Lighting – Whether shot in natural light or a studio setting, lighting should be soft, even, and flattering, without harsh shadows or distracting highlights.
- Minimal Retouching – Your headshot should represent how you look in real life. While some minor retouching is fine, excessive airbrushing or altering features can mislead casting directors.
- Authentic Expression – A great headshot captures personality and emotional depth. It should feel natural and not overly posed, giving a glimpse of who you are as an actor.
- Neutral & Well-Chosen Wardrobe – Simple, solid-colored clothing and simple patterns will keep the focus on your face. Your wardrobe should complement your skin tone and generally represent the types of roles you’re aiming for.
The photographer you choose is more important than you might realize. They need to understand the NYC market—Film, TV, Broadway, and commercials each have unique expectations. A photographer who knows these distinctions will ensure your headshot stands out and your investment pays off.
Jeremy Folmer: NYC’s Premier Actor Headshot Photographer
I’m not just another guy with an expensive camera—I’ve built a reputation as one of the most sought-after headshot photographers in New York City. What sets me apart? I genuinely understand what you’re going through as an actor because I’ve spent the last 30 years navigating the NYC acting scene myself. I know what agents and casting directors are looking for…authenticity.
My studio, conveniently located in the Lower East Side of Manhattan, has become a go-to spot for actors who are looking for headshots that capture their unique personality. My clients consistently report something interesting —that agents and casting directors are relieved when they are looking over their headshots because they actually look like them IRL. That’s no coincidence given the time I spend capturing authentic moments with each client. I create images that help actors book work in New York’s highly competitive market.
The Actor-Photographer Advantage: Why Jeremy’s Background Matters
You know what makes me different? I’ve been on both sides of the casting table. With over three decades of experience as a working actor, I still go to auditions and still book roles here in NYC, I know exactly what it feels like to be judged based on a single image.
That perspective gives me a huge advantage. When I’m behind the camera, I’m thinking like a casting director. I know the difference between an expression that feels real and authentic as opposed to one that looks forced. I can spot the subtle shift between a smile that says, “commercial star” and one that says, “dramatic lead.”
During our session, I won’t just tell you to “smile more” or “look serious.” Instead, I’ll guide you into the right headspace—we will listen to the music that you love…from Broadway to Heavy Metal… you name it we will put it on the playlist! My sessions always feel like I’m hanging out with a good friend capturing Headshots along the way that truly connect with agents and casting directors.
And here’s the thing—I get it. Most actors hate having their picture taken (funny, right? Me too!). But because I’ve been in your shoes, I know how to make the experience comfortable, natural, and, dare I say, even fun.
Jeremy Folmer’s Unique Approach to Headshot Photography
My approach to headshot photography breaks free from industry norms by prioritizing authenticity over perfection. Instead of relying on stiff poses, generic expressions, or overly retouched images, I create an environment where actors feel comfortable enough to reveal their true selves. My experience as a working NYC actor gives me a unique edge—I understand both the emotional and professional pressures of the industry, allowing me to direct sessions more like a scene than a photoshoot.
Unlike many photographers who focus solely on technical aspects like lighting and composition I emphasize the story in each shot by allowing you to be you. I guide actors into the right headspace, capturing expressions that align with their specific casting type—whether it’s a warm, inviting look for commercials or a grounded, intense expression for drama.
Most importantly, my process is interactive, and actor focused. I don’t just take pictures; I engage with actors on a personal level, helping them to connect with their essence rather than just posing for a camera. This approach results in headshots that feel alive, stand out from the typical “perfected” industry standard, and actually help actors book work.
My technical approach is also unique. I use a hybrid lighting system that combines:
- Non-flash daylight balanced studio lights
- Natural ambient indoor light
- Natural Outdoor light
- Reflected light
This creates images with dimension and life, avoiding the flat, over-lit look common in most headshots. Your eyes will pop and your skin will look natural- the overall effect feels cinematic as opposed to artificial.
Another personalized feature is the integration of professional makeup. My wife Ann Hamilton works directly with clients to create camera-ready looks that enhance your natural beauty without looking “done.” This saves you time, is stress free and ensures a cohesive vision throughout the shoot. Ann stays with us the entire session touching you up as we move along from look to look.
Types of Actor Headshots for Different Casting Needs
NYC actors need different types of headshots depending on their casting goals. I specialize in creating versatile images that can work across categories while also delivering specialized shots for specific markets.
Commercial Headshots
Commercial headshots should convey your approachability and relatability. These shots often feature:
- Bright, even lighting
- Warm, friendly expressions
- Often (but not always) direct eye contact
- Clothing that suggests versatility
I excel at capturing natural smiles that don’t look forced. As client David Maulbeck noted “After looking over the headshots with my manager and commercial agent, we are going with 101, 329, 279. Everyone is thrilled with your work and the headshots. Thank you again!”
Theatrical/Legit Headshots
For theater, film and TV submissions your headshot should convey more depth. Legit headshots often feature:
- More shadowed, dimensional lighting
- Serious or contemplative expressions
- Styling that suggests character potential
- A stronger sense of personality
Actor Nishant Panchal landed a lead film role “I just booked a lead role in a film! I believe a lot of it is due to the amazing headshots you took, that even got me considered for the role.”
Character-Specific Headshots
Sometimes, actors need headshots tailored to specific casting categories. I can help create images that will help you get seen for:
- Period Pieces – Classic, timeless, historical dramas
- Villain/Antagonist – Mysterious, intimidating, or cunning with and edge
- Blue Collar/Working Class – Down-to-earth, rugged, and approachable
- Young Professional/Millennial – Trendy, confident, and urban-chic
- Corporate/Professional – Clean-cut, polished, and authoritative
- Specialty Markets – Commercial Print, Comp Card Portfolio
The key to all these categories is authenticity. My approach guarantees that even when tailoring headshots for specific markets, they always feel natural and genuine—never staged or forced.
Preparing for Your NYC Actor Headshot Session
Getting ready for your session with me is more than just showing up. I will guide you through a detailed preparation process to ensure you get the most value and walk away with headshots that truly represent you.
Pre Photo Shoot Consultation
- Wardrobe guidance & detailed prep PDFs
- In Depth discussion about your “type” and casting goals
- Recommendations for hair and makeup preparation
If you prefer a phone consultation, I will be happy to talk through specific colors that work with your skin tone, neckline choices that flatter your face shape, and styling options that align with your casting goals.
What to Bring to Your Photo Shoot
For your session, plan to bring:
- 6-8 different tops/outfits (or just bring as much as you can handle)
- Variety of colors (both neutral and bold options patterns can work well too)
- Any specific “type” clothing relevant to your casting (i.e. suit and tie, sweater sets)
- Minimal jewelry
- Hair products for touch-ups
I recommend avoiding:
- Overly busy patterns
- Extremely bright colors that might reflect onto your skin
- Clothing that bunches or wrinkles easily…don’t worry! we have a steamer if things get
wrinkled on our way here - Boxy and oversized tops that hide your figure
- Trendy styles that will go out of date quickly
Day-of Preparation
On the day of your shoot:
- Arrive well-rested
- Drink plenty of water in the days prior to your session
- Men should shave right before the session (unless facial hair is part of your look)
- Come with clean, dry hair styled as you would for an audition
The goal isn’t to look “special” or “made-up” like you would be attending an awards ceremony but rather to look like your best, most authentic self – on a good day.
Post-Production: The Art of Ethical Retouching
One thing that sets me apart from other NYC actor headshot photographers is my approach to retouching. While many rely on heavy editing to “perfect” the image, I believe in keeping it natural and true to life. In my 20+ years of experience, I’ve found that this authenticity leads to happy casting directors and more auditions.
Focus of my headshot retouching:
- Maintaining Authenticity – The goal is to refine, not transform. Casting directors expect headshots to be an accurate representation of the actor.
- Removing Distractions – Light retouching can eliminate temporary blemishes, stray hairs, or uneven lighting without altering permanent features.
- Preserving Skin Texture – Over-smoothing skin can make a headshot look artificial.
- Ethical retouching keeps natural pores, lines, and textures intact.
- Enhancing, Not Changing – Adjustments to lighting, contrast, or color grading should complement the actor’s natural look rather than distort it.
- Matching Real-Life Presence – The actor in the headshot should look the same as they do in the audition room, ensuring consistency and building trust with casting directors.
This approach aligns with today’s casting expectations. In today’s HD world, casting directors want to see the real you—not an overly retouched version. My subtle, natural editing approach ensures your headshot represents you at your absolute best, without altering who you are.
When you walk into the audition room, you’ll look just like the headshot that got you there. This consistency builds trust with agents and casting director, making you a more reliable choice for the role.
Frequently Asked Questions About NYC Actors Headshots
How much do NYC actor headshots cost?
Professional actor headshots in NYC typically range from $500-$1200 depending on the photographer’s experience, session length and what’s included. My rates of only $595-795 with extended sessions are fair & competitive.
How often should I update my headshots?
Most NYC actors should update their headshots every 12-24 months. However, you should get new photos immediately if you:
- Your Look Has Changed – If you’ve changed your hair color, hairstyle, gained/lost significant weight, grown/shaved facial hair, or aged noticeably, it’s time for an update.
- Your headshot should accurately represent how you look when you show up for an audition.
- You’re Not Booking Auditions – If your current headshots aren’t getting you in the room, they may not be capturing the right energy or targeting the right casting categories. A fresh set could make all the difference.
- You’re Rebranding Your Type – If you’re transitioning from youthful roles to more mature characters or shifting from comedy to drama, you need headshots that reflect your new casting range.
- Your Headshots Are Over Two Years Old – Industry standards change, and your headshots should always look fresh and current. Even if your look hasn’t changed much, an outdated headshot might not make the best impression.
- Your Current Headshots Don’t Look Like You Anymore – If your old shots feel too polished, too generic, or don’t capture your true personality, it’s time for a redo. Your headshot should feel like you on your best day, not a version of you from years ago.
- You’ve Started Working More and Need Multiple Looks – If you’re booking gigs in different genres (commercial, theatrical, film, TV), you may need a variety of headshots that target each casting market.
If any of these apply to you, it’s a good sign that you should invest in new headshots to give yourself the best chance in today’s competitive industry.
Do I need different headshots for theater versus film/TV?
While having versatile headshots that work across all mediums is ideal, there are subtle differences in headshots for Theater vs. TV/Film as casting expectations can differ across mediums.
Theater often allows for slightly more expressive and dramatic headshots that convey a classic and timeless look. Your wardrobe might be a bit more sophisticated and theatrical with darker and solid colors that bring more focus to your expression.
Film and TV headshots should be natural and contained exuding subtle expressions that reflect a grounded and real version of yourself. Soft lighting and clean natural retouching helps casting directors see how you will appear on screen. Film and TV roles are more type-driven and wardrobe choices can help convey believability if different roles. I can help you create a portfolio that works across all media.
Should I hire a makeup artist for my headshot session?
The short answer is yes! For women professional makeup can be added on to a photoshoot for $150, through my wife & makeup artist Ann Hamilton. You should arrive with clean, moisturized skin and your hair audition ready.
We will help manage it during the shoot. Ann will provide a clean, fresh look to begin and works with you to create the looks you want as the shoot progresses. Men will typically receive light makeup to cover blemishes and translucent powder to reduce and shine.
How many outfit changes should I bring?
I recommend bringing 6-8 (or as many as you can handle) different tops or outfits to provide variety. Focus on different necklines and colors rather than complete outfit changes, as headshots typically show you from the chest up.
How long before I receive my finished headshots?
You will receive a password-protected gallery of images to select from within 3-4 business days after your session. Typical turnaround for retouched images is 2-3 business days.
What is the difference between a good headshot photographer and great headshot
photographer?
A good headshot photographer: Knows how to use professional lighting and camera settings. Provides technically strong images with sharp focus and balanced exposure. Directs basic poses and expressions. Delivers clean, well-edited headshots that look polished.
A great headshot photographer: Understands the acting industry – They know what casting directors and agents look for and tailor shots to fit your type and market. Brings out authentic expressions – Instead of generic poses, they help capture real personality and emotion that make you stand out.
Makes you feel comfortable – A great photographer creates a relaxed environment, helping you feel confident rather than stiff or self-conscious.
Provides expert direction – They don’t just say “smile” or “look serious”; they coach you through subtle emotional shifts that create compelling, natural images. Knows the difference between ‘pretty’ and ‘effective’ – A great headshot isn’t just flattering; it’s strategically designed to get you in the audition room.
Offers personalized guidance – They help you with wardrobe, styling, and expression choices based on your goals and acting niche.
Edits with restraint – They enhance, not alter, ensuring your headshot still looks like you. A good photographer can take a nice picture. A great headshot photographer helps you get work. That’s the difference.
How do I book a session with Jeremy Folmer?
You can book directly through my website or by calling my studio. Current lead time for new appointments is approximately 2-3 weeks, so plan accordingly, especially if you have upcoming auditions or agent meetings.
The right actor headshot is an investment in your career. In NYC’s competitive market, working with a photographer who truly understands the industry like I do can make all the difference in getting you in the room and helping you book the roles you want.