What’s the Difference Between a Corporate Headshot and an Actor’s Headshot?

If you’ve ever searched “professional headshot” on Google, you’ve probably seen two very different types of images - clean, confident corporate portraits and cinematic, more emotional actor headshots. And if you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or creative professional in London, you might be wondering… which one’s right for me?

The Purpose

The main difference between a corporate headshot and an actor’s headshot comes down to purpose.

An actor’s headshot is essentially a calling card. It’s used to get auditions, which means it needs to show casting directors exactly what you look like and what kind of roles you might suit. That means clear, natural lighting, accurate skin tones, and minimal retouching. You’ll usually have a few different expressions or moods, but the focus is always the same: you.

A corporate or business headshot, on the other hand, is about communication. You’re not trying to “get cast”, you’re trying to connect. Whether it’s for your website, LinkedIn, or press features, your headshot represents who you are and what it’s like to work with you.

If you’re a founder or business owner, your headshot often doubles as your brand’s first impression. That’s why a good business portrait needs to reflect more than just your appearance, it should capture the tone and energy of your work.

(Curious what makes a great headshot in general? You can read my breakdown in What Makes a Good Headshot?)

The Look: Style and Lighting

Actors’ headshots are often shot against simple backgrounds with very soft, even lighting. The goal is accuracy. The casting director needs to see your face clearly, without distraction. They also tend to be tighter crops (shoulders up) and more neutral in tone.

Corporate headshots, meanwhile, are much more flexible. A founder or creative director might want something bold, dynamic, and full of personality, while someone in finance or law may prefer something cleaner and more traditional.

Lighting plays a big role here. A well-lit business headshot should feel flattering and professional, but still have enough shape to bring out your features. A little contrast or shadow gives depth, and subtle separation from the background helps you stand out.

In a London setting, that might mean a bright, airy studio for a timeless look - or using natural light and urban textures for something more contemporary and brand-aligned.

The Message

Actors are competing on casting pages filled with hundreds of other faces. Their job is to stand out while still being believable. That’s why actor headshots need to feel natural, authentic, and honest - no heavy retouching, no over-the-top lighting setups.

For business owners, the message is a little different. You’re not trying to fit a broad spectrum of roles, you’re just representing yourself and your work.

Your headshot is your handshake before you even enter the room.
It should say: I’m approachable, capable, and this is what working with me feels like.

That’s why so many founders today are moving away from stiff, traditional “corporate” shots. Instead, they’re choosing portraits that feel more them - whether that’s a candid, laughing moment, a creative studio backdrop, or a strong, confident gaze to camera.

You might also choose to include a mix of environments or setups. For example, if you’re a designer, architect, or creative professional, we might photograph you in your studio or workspace, showing you in your element. That kind of context adds authenticity and depth to your personal brand.

The Photographer’s Role

Regardless of the type of headshot, the photographer’s job is to make you feel at ease, because the best portraits happen when you feel comfortable, confident, and like your usual self.

For actors, that means helping you access a range of emotions and expressions. For business clients, it’s about helping you relax, feel confident, and bring your real personality forward.

A good headshot photographer understands light, composition, and posing, but that’s for them to worry about you just need to pick the right one for you.

If you’re looking for someone to capture your business headshot, I’d always recommend browsing their portfolio carefully. Do their images feel genuine and engaging? Do you get a sense of personality from the people in them? That’s usually a good sign that they know how to draw that out in you too.

(If you’re still deciding whether to invest in a professional headshot, I wrote a post that might help: Is It Worth Getting a Professional Headshot in London?)

My Perspective

Personally, I see the two styles as cousins rather than opposites. Both are about representing you, they just have different audiences in mind.

Actors are about authenticity.

Business ones are about story.

As a photographer, my goal is to meet you somewhere between the two. To create something that feels authentic, but also aligns with the story you’re trying to tell through your work or brand.

Whether you’re an actor or a founder, your headshot should feel like a confident reflection of who you are.

FAQs

• Can I use an actor’s headshot as a business headshot (or vice versa)?

  Yes and no - they ultimately serve different purposes. An actor’s headshot can look too cinematic or emotional for a business profile, while a traditional corporate shot might look too stiff or formal for acting work.

  If you have photos that are somewhere in-between they might do the job, but if you want each photo to serve it’s purpose best then you’re better off getting dedicated headshots.

• How do I choose the right style for me?

  Think about your audience and where the photo will appear. LinkedIn, press features, and company websites usually call for something clean and professional, but that still feels personal. But this entirely depend on your industry.

  The more corporate roles often require something more formal, where as if you work in anything around design, creatives, marketing you usually get away with something a bit more casual/lively.

  With the right photographer you should be able to work together to find exactly where you want to place yourself on that scale.

• What should I wear for a business headshot?

  Choose something that reflects your role and brand tone.

  Founders and creatives often do well with relaxed, well-fitted outfits - generally I would say to avoid overly busy patterns and stick with colours that complement your skin tone.

  However, if you are someone who wears a lot of colours and busy patterns then go for it! (Just let your photographer know so he can find the right backdrop/environment for the photo)

• How often should I update my headshot?

  Every 2–3 years is a good rule of thumb. But this can be much more frequently depending on how your appearance or brand direction changes over time.