Your headshot is your calling card in the industry. It’s what gets you seen, considered, and hopefully called in. But what happens when your headshot no longer reflects who you are—or worse, holds you back?
Here’s how to know when it’s time to update your headshots, and why keeping them current is one of the smartest career moves you can make.
So… How Often Should You Update Them?
There’s no exact expiration date, but a good rule of thumb is every 1 to 3 years.
That window can shrink depending on your career momentum, how much your look has changed, and what kinds of roles you're going out for.
When you wait too long, your materials start sending the wrong message—one that says you’re either not actively working, not paying attention, or not serious about your career.
Signs It’s Time to Refresh Your Headshots
If you’re unsure whether it’s time for a new session, here are a few clear signs:
✔️ You’ve changed your look significantly
Whether it’s a new hairstyle, different hair color or cut, noticeable weight change, new facial hair, or even tattoos—if you don’t look like your headshots anymore, it’s time for an update. Casting will notice, and if there's a disconnect between your photo and how you show up, it can affect how seriously you're considered for the role.
✔️ You’ve shifted age range
As your age range evolves, so do the roles you're right for. If you're now in your 30s but still submitting headshots from your early 20s, you're misrepresenting yourself—whether intentionally or not. That creates confusion for casting.
Still submitting outdated headshots? That disconnect between who they expect and who actually walks in can cost you the callback.
✔️ Your last session was 3+ years ago
Even if your look hasn’t changed much, it’s worth checking in on your actor portfolio. You might be missing a specific look for roles you now go out for, or your wardrobe may feel outdated for today’s market. Sometimes a full overhaul is needed—but other times, a thoughtful refresh is all it takes to stay aligned with your current casting.
✔️ You’ve grown or rebranded as an actor
If you’ve taken on new training, gotten representation, or are going out for different types of roles, your headshots should reflect that pivot.
✔️ Your reps asked for an update
Sometimes the note is simple: “We need better commercial looks.” Or, “We’re pitching you for love-interest types now.” Either way, trust that direction—it means your reps are having a hard time marketing you with your current headshots. They need tools that better represent who you are now.
When this happens, be sure to ask for notes. The more clarity you have on what your reps are looking for, the better you can tailor your new headshots to support those goals.
✔️ You dislike your headshots
If you feel disconnected from your current headshots—or worse, cringe a little when you submit them—it’s time for a change. You want to feel proud of what you're putting out there.
When you're submitting headshots you don't believe in, you're not confident—and that energy comes through in your auditions. A great headshot should speak proudly on your behalf—not quietly apologize for falling short.
Why Keeping Your Headshots Updated Matters
💼 Professionalism
Up-to-date headshots signal to casting directors and agents that you're actively engaged in your career and can be relied upon to present yourself authentically. Neglecting to update your headshot can suggest a lack of commitment or awareness of industry standards.
🎯 Casting Accuracy
An outdated headshot can misrepresent your current appearance, leading to confusion or disappointment during auditions. Casting directors rely on headshots to match actors to roles accurately; discrepancies can hinder your chances of being cast.
This article from Seattle Actor Photos dives deeper into why up-to-date headshots are essential for building trust with casting—and how misaligned visuals can hold your career back.
⚡ Confidence & Momentum
Submitting a headshot that no longer reflects your true self can undermine your confidence. A current, authentic headshot empowers you to approach auditions with assurance, knowing that your materials accurately represent you.
Bonus Tip: Keep a Folder of “Expired” Headshots
Actors all have them—headshots you once loved that just aren’t you anymore. Keep them in a “retired headshots” folder. Celebrate how far you’ve come, then move forward with looks that reflect who you are right now.
And if letting go of those old shots feels extra painful because the session was a big investment? You might be overpaying for headshots that aren’t built to grow with you. This post breaks down what you’re really paying for—and why more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
Related Posts:
Ready to Book Your Next Session?
If you’re nodding along to any of these signs, it might be time. Let’s capture the version of you that casting needs to see.
