Theatrical actor headshot Phoenix AZ - dramatic studio lighting by CMQ Headshots
Professional actress headshot Phoenix AZ - clean white background portrait
Actor headshot Phoenix AZ - blue backdrop professional portrait
Commercial actor headshot Phoenix Arizona - approachable expression for casting

ACTOR HEADSHOTS
PHOENIX, AZ

CAPTIVATING, CHARACTER-DRIVEN
HEADSHOTS
FOR ACTORS & PERFORMERS

$250

plus

IMAGE(S) you purchase
$100 each

All sessions by appointment only. Book now to secure your preferred date.

If you don't see a date or time that works for you, please contact me.

Actor headshot Phoenix AZ - professional studio portrait by CMQ Headshots
Theatrical actor headshot Phoenix AZ - versatile casting portrait
Male actor headshot Phoenix Arizona - dramatic character look
Professional actor headshot Phoenix AZ - commercial and theatrical range

EVERY ACTOR SESSION INCLUDES

MULTIPLE CHARACTER LOOKS

Capture your range with theatrical, commercial, and character-specific looks that showcase your versatility as a performer.

PROFESSIONAL DIRECTION

Expert guidance on expressions, angles, and energy levels to bring out authentic performances that casting directors want to see.

INDUSTRY STANDARDS

Headshots formatted to meet current industry specifications for Actors Access, LA Casting, and other casting platforms.

NATURAL LIGHT OPTIONS

Studio and natural light settings available to create the perfect mood and atmosphere for each of your character types.

WARDROBE CONSULTATION

Pre-session guidance on wardrobe selection to ensure your clothing enhances rather than distracts from your face and performance.

FAST TURNAROUND

Get your professionally retouched headshots within 48-72 hours, ready for auditions and casting submissions.

Actress headshot Phoenix AZ - professional studio portrait by CMQ Headshots
Actor headshot Phoenix Arizona - natural expression for casting
Character actor headshot Phoenix AZ - versatile look for auditions
Professional actress headshot Phoenix AZ - theatrical portrait
Actress portfolio headshot Phoenix AZ - professional portrait for casting

TYPES OF ACTOR HEADSHOTS I PHOTOGRAPH

COMMERCIAL HEADSHOTS

Commercial headshots are bright, warm, and full of personality. These are the headshots you need when you're auditioning for TV commercials, print ads, corporate training videos, and lifestyle campaigns. The lighting is even and flattering, the background is clean, and your expression is open and approachable — the kind of face that makes viewers feel like they already know and trust you. I'll coach you through a range of genuine smiles and friendly expressions that show you're the relatable, everyday person that brands are looking for. If you're pursuing commercial work in the Phoenix market, this is the headshot that gets you in the door.

THEATRICAL HEADSHOTS

Theatrical headshots are darker, moodier, and more intense. These capture the depth and range you bring to dramatic roles — think Shakespeare's Hamlet or Macbeth, Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman, Tennessee Williams' A Streetcar Named Desire, or modern dramas like August: Osage County. The lighting is more sculpted with deeper shadows, and your expression conveys emotional weight and complexity. Casting directors for film, television dramas, and stage productions need to see that you can carry the intensity of a scene. I use dramatic lighting techniques to bring out the gravitas in your look while keeping the image natural and authentic to who you are as a performer.

CHILD & TEEN ACTOR HEADSHOTS

Photographing young actors requires a different approach. Kids and teens need to feel comfortable and relaxed in the studio — not posed or stiff. I work with young performers at their pace, keeping the session fun and low-pressure so their natural personality shines through. Parents are welcome to stay in the studio. For child actors, casting directors want to see the real kid — not a miniature adult. The headshot should capture their age-appropriate look, natural expressions, and the spark that makes them stand out. I'll guide them through gentle direction that brings out authentic reactions, whether they're auditioning for commercials, film, or theater productions in the Phoenix area.

VOICEOVER & VOICE ACTOR HEADSHOTS

This is a heated debate in the voiceover world: do voice actors even need a headshot? Some argue that showing your face creates bias — casting directors might make assumptions about your age, type, or vocal range based on how you look instead of how you sound. Others use a cartoon avatar instead of a real photo. Personally, I think that raises more questions than it answers — what are you hiding?

Here's the truth: it depends on your career path, and ultimately it's your decision. But I'm a headshot photographer, so I'm going to tell you that you need at least one professional headshot. Your photo shows up on casting platforms, agency websites, LinkedIn, and your own marketing materials. People want to put a face to the voice — it builds connection and trust. A strong voiceover headshot conveys warmth, energy, and the personality behind the voice. Whether you specialize in animation, audiobooks, commercials, or narration, I'll capture a look that makes a producer want to hear what you sound like.

MODELING & COMMERCIAL PRINT HEADSHOTS

If you're pursuing modeling or commercial print work alongside acting, you need headshots that show your versatility. These sessions focus on capturing a range of looks — from editorial and fashion-forward to clean commercial shots that agencies and brands want to see. I'll help you showcase different sides of your look with wardrobe changes, varied expressions, and multiple lighting setups. Many Phoenix actors work across both acting and modeling, and having headshots that serve both markets means more auditions and more bookings.

COMEDY & STAND-UP PERFORMER HEADSHOTS

Comedy performers need a headshot that shows their personality and sense of humor without being goofy. The best comedy headshots capture a knowing look, a subtle smirk, or an expression that says "I'm about to make you laugh." Whether you perform stand-up at comedy clubs around Phoenix, do improv, or audition for comedic roles in film and TV, your headshot should project confidence and likability. I'll help you find that sweet spot between professional and personable that makes casting directors and bookers take notice.

Theatrical actor headshot Phoenix AZ - dramatic studio lighting
Commercial actor headshot Phoenix Arizona - approachable expression
Character-driven actor headshot Phoenix AZ - confident expression
Professional actress headshot Phoenix AZ - white background portrait

WHAT TO EXPECT AT YOUR ACTOR HEADSHOT SESSION

Your actor headshot session starts well before you arrive at the studio. After you book, we'll schedule a phone consultation where I learn about your acting career, the roles you're pursuing, and what you want your headshots to communicate to casting directors. This is where we plan your wardrobe, discuss hair and grooming, and map out the different looks we'll capture during the session.

On the day of your shoot, plan to arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in and get comfortable. My Phoenix studio is a relaxed, professional space where you can change outfits and touch up your hair or makeup between looks. We'll start with whatever look feels most natural to you, then work through your planned wardrobe changes from there.

During the session, I'll direct you through a range of expressions and subtle adjustments — a slight tilt of the head, a shift in where your eyes focus, the difference between a warm commercial smile and a grounded theatrical look. We review images together on the monitor throughout the shoot so you can see what's working and we can make adjustments in real time. Most actors are surprised by how much variety we capture in a single session.

After the session, I'll prepare a private online gallery where you can view all of your images. You choose the ones you want to purchase — there's no minimum and no pressure. Your selected images are professionally retouched and delivered within 7 business days, ready to upload to Actors Access, LA Casting, Backstage, and any other platforms where you submit for roles. Need them faster? Same-day retouching is available for an additional fee.

Male actor headshot Phoenix AZ - cinematic theatrical portrait by CMQ Headshots
Actor commercial headshot Phoenix Arizona - friendly natural expression
Phoenix actor headshot - dramatic character look with studio lighting
Professional acting headshot Phoenix AZ - versatile look for casting submissions

ACTOR PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS

– Casting directors need to see YOU, not just a pretty picture. Your headshots should capture your essence, personality, and the types of roles you can authentically portray. A corporate headshot focuses on professionalism — an actor headshot needs to show emotion, range, and the spark that makes you memorable in a stack of submissions.

– With over 14 years photographing actors and performers in Phoenix, I understand the specific requirements of theatrical and commercial headshots that get you noticed. I stay current with what casting directors and talent agents want to see, so your headshots never look outdated or out of touch with industry standards.

– Every session includes personalized direction based on the character types and roles you're pursuing. I don't use a one-size-fits-all approach — your session is tailored to your unique look, your strengths as a performer, and the specific market you're targeting.

– You only buy the images you love. There's no minimum purchase and no pressure. Whether you need one strong theatrical headshot or a full collection of looks for different casting categories, the choice is yours.

– All images are delivered in high-resolution formats optimized for print (8x10) and web submission to Actors Access, LA Casting, Backstage, and other casting platforms used by Phoenix actors.

Actress theatrical headshot Phoenix AZ - expressive portrait for theater auditions
Commercial actress headshot Phoenix Arizona - warm approachable casting photo
Actor headshot with character range Phoenix AZ - multiple looks in one session
Professional performer headshot Phoenix AZ - polished portrait for acting portfolio

ACTOR HEADSHOTS NEAR ME

Your actor headshot session with me is a collaborative process from start to finish. Before we ever step into the studio, we'll have a phone consultation where we talk through exactly what you want to accomplish. What roles are you going after? What character types do you want to showcase? This conversation shapes every decision we make together.

During our pre-session call, we'll plan your wardrobe choices, discuss how you want to wear your hair, and talk about the expressions and energy that will help you get noticed by casting directors. By the time you walk into the studio, we both have a clear vision for the session — no guesswork, no wasted time.

With over 14 years of experience photographing actors and performers in Phoenix, I understand what casting directors and agents are looking for. I'll direct you through expressions and angles that bring out authentic performances on camera — the kind that make someone stop scrolling and call you in for an audition.

My pricing is straightforward: you pay a session fee, and then you only buy the images you love. No pressure to purchase a package you don't need. Whether you need one killer theatrical headshot or a full set of commercial and character looks, you're in control.

My studio is conveniently located in Phoenix with easy access from Scottsdale, Tempe, and the East Valley. Ready to get started? Contact me to schedule your consultation call, or book your session directly above.

WHAT ACTORS SAY

Actor headshot client Klydie Miller

5 STAR REVIEW

This was my first time taking acting headshots, and within 10 minutes of the session, I was already feeling comfortable and having fun. I was able to get the quality and type of headshots I wanted. It was an amazing experience, I recommend CMQ Headshots to anyone needing headshots!

- KLYDIE MILLER

Headshot client Michelle Kass

5 STAR REVIEW

I brought my 17 year old son to Cindy to get some headshots for his college auditions. We were very happy with the outcome. It was the first time we had professional headshots taken and he was nervous. Cindy was very patient with him and we got several great shots. Definitely Recommend!

- MICHELLE KASS

Headshot client Nikki Demicelli

5 STAR REVIEW

The website says she takes pride in her ability to make people feel comfortable. Well, SHE SHOULD!! I wasn't just nervous, I was uncomfortable and feeling like a hot mess. Cindy was able to make me laugh, relax, feel confident and beautiful. She got great shots that were so hard to choose from. She's definitely the artist, and turned me into art!!

- NIKKI DEMICELLI

HOW MUCH ARE PROFESSIONAL HEADSHOTS

Get answers to the most common questions about actor headshot sessions

Theatrical headshots are more serious and dramatic, showing your depth for film and theater roles. Commercial headshots are bright, friendly, and approachable for advertising work.
Bring 5-6 outfits to give us options. We'll select the best ones that work for your different character types and the lighting setup.
You don't need to wear it to the session — you can do it when you get here. Keep it minimal: a little mascara, lipstick or gloss, and minimal blush is all you need. The goal is to look like the best version of yourself. It's not about heavy makeup.
Every 1-2 years, or whenever your appearance changes significantly. Your headshot should look like you on your best day, right now.
High-resolution JPEGs suitable for 8x10 prints, plus web-optimized versions for Actors Access, LA Casting, and other online platforms.
Yes! We'll review images periodically during the shoot to ensure we're capturing the looks you need and make adjustments as necessary.
Don't worry! We work with actors at all comfort levels. Our relaxed approach and professional direction will help you feel confident and natural.
Your final images will be done within 7 business days from the time you selected your favorite images. Same day Retouching – is available at an additional fee of $50.00