Chicago Actor Headshots That Actually Get You In The Room
Your headshot is working before you are. It's what casting directors see before your name, before your reel, before your resume. In a submission grid of hundreds, it has about two seconds to communicate something specific. Your type, your energy, your range. A generic headshot doesn't do that. A great one does. Second City Headshots specializes in actor headshots built for the Chicago market: commercial, theatrical, and everything in between.
What Makes An Actor Headshot Actually Work
Casting directors aren't looking for the most beautiful photo. They're looking for the most castable one. That means your headshot needs to communicate a type clearly, feel authentic rather than posed, and hold up at thumbnail size on a casting platform. It also needs to look like you, not a version of you from three years ago, not an overly retouched version of you, and not a version of you that's trying too hard.
Every session at Second City Headshots is built around this. We work through your types before we pick up a camera, figure out which looks will serve your submissions best, and then shoot with intention. The result is a set of images you can actually use, not a gallery of technically fine photos that all look the same.
Commercial vs. Theatrical
You Probably Need Both
Commercial headshots are brighter, more open, and approachable. They're what you submit for national spots, regional campaigns, industrials, and anything where a brand needs a face that feels warm and relatable. Theatrical headshots carry more emotional weight — they're built for film, television, streaming, and stage work where casting wants to see depth and specificity.
Most working actors need at least one strong look in each category. Our sessions are designed to cover both within a single shoot, so you leave with a versatile set that works across submission types rather than a stack of photos that all say the same thing.
Actor Session Pricing
Starter Session
$250
Fast refresh when you just need a solid, current set.
2 looks (wardrobe change and styling shift)
2 retouched images included
Full casting gallery buyout = $150
Great if your current headshot is just outdated.
Actor Session
$500
A strong set of distinct options with room to experiment.
5 looks (wardrobe change and styling shift)
5 retouched images included
Full casting gallery buyout = $100
The sweet spot for most actors updating their kit.
Portfolio Session
$750
Maximum variety for submissions, reps, and casting coverage.
8 looks (wardrobe change and styling shift)
8 retouched images included
Full casting gallery INCLUDED
Best for actors who want options without compromise.
What To Bring
You don’t need to overthink this. Bring 2-3 wardrobe options per look you’re shooting. Solid colors work best, usually best to avoid busy patterns and large logos. However, if it fits the look you’re going for… let’s try it! Think about the types you’re currently submitting for and dress towards those. If you’re not sure, we’ll talk through it before the session.
Hair and makeup: Come camera ready. I don’t currently offer hair and make up but you’re welcome to bring someone in with you if you’d like.
COMMON QUESTIONS
What to Expect
How far In Advance Should I book?
We recommend booking at least 1-2 weeks out to give yourself time to prepare wardrobe. But, if you’re ready to go, we can usually make next day happen.
How long until I receive My Images?
If you purchase a casting gallery, which is un-retouched, you’ll get that same day. I also turnaround one retouched image within 24 hours as well. The rest is 5 business days.
Where is the studio located?
We are located in the Bridgeport neighborhood, just outside of downtown Chicago. 1010 W 35 St
Can I add More Retouched Images After The Session?
Yes. Additional retouched images can be purchased à la carte from your casting gallery.
Do you shoot commercial and Theatrical In The Same Session?
Yes. We plan looks to cover both within a single session. The Actor Session (5 looks) and Portfolio Builder (8 looks) give you the most flexibility for this.