Express
$275
30 minutes, one look, three final photos
For applications, school submissions or a first headshot.
- Delivered the same day
- Coaching the whole time
Actor headshots
Theatrical and commercial headshots for teens and adults, with real direction in every frame. Studio in Geneva, IL.
Choose your session
Every session includes direction, coaching and natural retouching, and every look gives you three final photos. If you want to keep going, you can move up to the next session on the spot.
Slate
$500
Up to 60 minutes, four looks, 12 final photos
For working actors, theatrical and commercial.
- Coached on expression and presence
- Delivered the next day
Range
$850
Unlimited time and outfit changes, five looks, 15 final photos
Every type you want to be called in for.
- Delivered within 5 days
- Hair and makeup available
Student or recent graduate? See student prices
A $100 retainer holds your time ($250 for Range), and the rest is due at your session. Hair and makeup with Range is $270 for both or $150 for either one. You can add more looks at your session.
Theatrical and commercial
- Theatrical headshots are character-driven, for film, stage, episodic and dramatic roles.
- Commercial headshots are brighter, warmer and more approachable, for advertising and TV spots.
- If you’re submitting for a range of roles, you need both. If you’re just starting out, one strong look is enough.
- Retouching stays natural. Casting directors expect you to look like your headshot when you walk in the room.
Recent actor sessions
… He never rushed us and even gave us extra time to make sure we got the shots we wanted. I got headshots, quarter-body shots, and full-body shots, and I was really happy with the experience. He also helped me choose which outfits would look best, which I really appreciated. …
Dhruv Patel
“Justin was absolutely amazing with my daughter! We had never done professional headshots before, and he made the entire experience comfortable, fun, and easy to understand. He walked her through the process and made everything feel very natural. The photos turned out incredible — we could not be happier with them! …”
Clare Conger“I had a really great experience with my headshot session with Justin! He was kind, attentive, and made me feel completely comfortable during the session. He was creative and also listened to my ideas, which made the whole experience fun and collaborative. The photos turned out amazing, and I’d definitely recommend him to anyone looking for a great photographer!”
Bryce Renee“I recently took pictures with Justin, not just headshots but a whole photo shoot and he did absolutely amazing! He is very easy to work with, and he made it super fun but he was very professional as well! I 10/10 recommend him, he is great at what he does! I cannot wait to go back for another shoot!”
Kileigh Peters“Had the best experience. Justin is phenomenal and very easy to work with. Super excited to get my shots back.”
Brian NealQuestions
What makes a great actor headshot?
The eyes. Wardrobe, background and lighting all come second. A great headshot has alive, energized eyes with real thought behind them, and that’s what stops a casting director mid-scroll. Every session is built around getting you there.
How many looks do I need?
Think about the roles you want to be called in for. Each look should say something different about who you could play. One strong look is enough to start, working actors usually need at least two, and Range gives you five.
What should I wear?
For theatrical, earth or muted tones and a structured jacket or layered top that suggests a character without being a costume. For commercial, brighter, cleaner solid colors. Avoid logos and busy patterns, and bring more options than you think you’ll need.
Can parents stay during teen sessions?
Yes, for the whole session. A familiar face often helps younger actors relax. I just ask that the direction comes from me, so we can keep the session focused.
When will I get my photos?
Express the same day, Slate the next day and Range within 5 days. You pick your favorites during the session and I start retouching right away.
Where is the studio?
134 Hawkins Way, Geneva, IL 60134, about 45 minutes west of downtown Chicago. I also shoot on location for some projects, so tell me if you have something specific in mind.