ACTOR HEADSHOTS NYC

Your actor headshot has to jump off the page, grab the casitng director’s attention, and tell them exactly who you are and what roles you can play.

Actor Headshots NYC

Actor Headshots at Gornphoto

Your actor headshot has to jump off the page, grab the casitng director’s attention, and tell them exactly who you are and what roles you can play.

There are over 42,000 actors in the United States with an average age of 38.9 years. Five percent (5%) of these actors are earning an average annual salary of $45,921, which is $9,603 less than the average national salary of $55,524. One percent (1%) of these actors are earning upwards of a million dollars.

Yet, actors stay in the industry for the love of the work and the calling of their dreams to make it as a professional working actor.

What is the most important tool an actor has at their fingertips to achieve their goals?

Looks? Passion? Talent? Training? Reel? Connections?

Your amazing new headshot that tells casting directors exactly who you are and what roles you can play. It’s the only thing standing between you and the audition where you will book a life changing role.

Your headshots are the first thing to be seen by an agent, manager, casting director, and everyone else in the entertainment industry who are casting roles in new films, tv shows, web series, or plays. They look at your headshot before they read your resume or watch your reel.

Unfortunately, 95% of headshots go straight into the wastebasket.

What can you do?

Your headshot has to explode off the page and tell casting directors exactly who you are and what roles you can play. Your headshots have to cover your acting range. Your headshot has to stop that casting director in their tracks so you can get that audition!

INTRODUCTION AND APPROACH

Lev Gorn’s career in film and television covers over 50 films and TV series.  He has played roles in some of the most highly-acclaimed TV series, including a series regular on Emmy Award-winning FX’s “The Americans”, recurring on HBO’s “The Wire” and on Netflix’s “Maniac”, opposite Emma Stone and Jonah Hill, and many other shows. Lev is currently recurring on Apple TV’s “For All Mankind” and STARZ “Raising Kanan”. 

Over the past 20 years, Lev Gorn has redefined the art of headshot photography. Lev’s first-hand knowledge of the business and extensive experience in front and behind the camera sets him apart from the rest of NYC headshot photographers. He has developed a uniquely personal and innovative approach to creating headshots for actors that result in weekly auditions. 

His “behind the scenes” understanding of what agents, managers, and casting directors want, allows him to capture you in a way that tells them exactly who you are and what roles you can play. He directs you during the shoot as if you were on a movie set, listens to your ideas, and makes you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera. He has an unmistakable eye for the right wardrobe styles and colors, locations, lighting, and makeup. And how all of these elements create headshots that book auditions.

Lev chooses specific locations and custom tailors lighting that captures your specific range. His lighting design captures you as if you were on the set of a film or television show. Each actor is lit differently according to their specific type and the kind of project in which they will be cast. Lighting correctly for your type is one of the most important elements of an effective headshot. 

Lev knows how to coach you, make you feel relaxed, and together create headshots that grab the casting director’s attention and get 30% more auditions.

Most headshot photographers focus on making you look beautiful. But beautiful and castable are often not the same thing. Getting your headshots is not a vanity project. The singular purpose of your headshot is to get auditions. If your headshots do not get you weekly auditions, your acting career goes nowhere. 

The more auditions you get, the more “up-to-bats” you have to book a role – the more “up-to-bats, the more roles you will book. If you don’t have an extensive resume, getting auditions depends exclusively on your headshots. The success of your acting career is equal to the power of your headshot.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN YOU NEED NEW HEADSHOTS?

As time passes and we evolve and grow as artists, we discover new parts of ourselves, become better actors and more interesting human beings. Our every experience becomes a part of who we are in our day to day life. And all of those experiences are expressed on our faces and shine through our eyes. 

A new headshot will show casting directors our creative growth and the passion that burns inside. It will open doors that have been previously closed to us because a casting director will see something new in our eyes that wasn’t there a year ago. A new headshot is an investment into your ever evolving acting career.  It’s easy to blame your agent or manager for not getting you auditions. But if it’s been a year or more since your last headshot session, it’s in the best interest of your acting career – especially for Pilot Season – to update your headshots or at the very least, shoot 2-3 new looks.

For example, shooting outdoors is a bit more improvisational than in the studio. There is a vibrant energy on the street, depth and texture in the background, that makes for a truly unique experience and one of a kind headshot that captures the casting director’s imagination. 

If your current actor headshots have been submitted over and over again, they are getting stale. Casting directors are swamped with hundreds of submissions. No resume credit will open the door to an audition better than a fresh new headshot. 

Remember, casting directors won’t look at your resume or reel unless your headshot jumps off the page, stops them in their tracks, and tells them exactly who you are and what roles you can play. Does your headshot get you weekly auditions?

WHAT TO EXPECT: When you arrive at the Gornphoto Studio your wardrobe will be hung on a clothing rack. You’ll have time to relax, listen to your favorite music, and have a coffee. You and Lev will discuss your wardrobe options and together you’ll make the best choices. After the hair and make-up is complete the shoot will start!

Professional actor headshots in New York

Let’s take the mystery out of becoming a working actor… you step inside the audition room, you do a kick-ass read, you stand out, you book the role!

Your ability to get the audition will determine the success of your acting career.

However, getting that audition slot depends exclusively on your actor headshot. Your talent and hard work will only be seen if we get to audition for that special role that will launch your career. Nothing is more important than getting the right headshots in NYC.

Your headshot gets the audition. Your talent books the role.

There are over 200 headshot photographers in New York City. Choosing one is like playing the lottery. Most photographers can take a nice picture of you. But a nice picture does not grab the casting director’s attention. A nice picture goes into the wastebasket!

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What kind of actor headshots grab the casting director’s attention?

What is the recipe that creates an actor headshot that brings you inside the audition room? What sort of headshot makes a casting director want to meet the person in the photograph? What kind of headshot stops a casting director in their tracks?
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Actor headshots customer testimonials

Jennifer HellwarthJennifer Hellwarth
22:15 12 May 23
I have worked with Lev on corporate headshots several times this year and he has done a great job for us! Several of the reasons we continue to use him, 1]price is competitive, 2]quality of work, 3]communication, 4]ease of scheduling, 5]willingness to calendar a rush when needed, 6]turnaround time on photos, and 7]our employees have mentioned how great he is to work with. I highly recommend Lev for your corporate photography needs!
Stacye MayerStacye Mayer
18:11 21 Apr 23
Lev knows what it takes to capture your true self in a headshot. I have been recommending Lev Gorn for years. His sharp eye & knowledge of what it takes to grab the attention of industry professionals; like casting directors, agents, managers has always been exceptional. You will always receive a variety of shots you can easily swap out accordingly. Book your session soon!
Nicole FinneganNicole Finnegan
14:41 01 Feb 23
Excellent experience getting my professional headshot taken by Lev! A very kind guy, easy to talk to, and makes you feel comfortable (which means better photos!) My whole office uses him and for good reason - definitely the best place to get headshots in NYC.
Kathy SantopietroKathy Santopietro
22:01 09 Jan 23
Highly recommend Lev- he knows the business and knows what shots are needed. Great studio, professional and very knowledgable. I can't wait to get these shots up on the casting sites for my son. Actors, new and seasoned, would benefit from a session with Lev.
Rick WhiteRick White
18:17 29 Nov 22
I found Lev through a post on LinkedIn by a former colleague, and I loved the quality I saw. However, since my colleague is in Atlanta, I did not realize he was working out of NYC. So... even though his home base is NYC and I am based in Atlanta, I concluded that I liked his work more than others I had seen locally... I decided I would go to NYC to get my professional photos. I'm pleased with the results and recommend to anyone looking for quality photography with a great photographer that is easy to work with to contact Lev.
emma bristowemma bristow
16:51 30 Oct 22
Headshot photographer NYC. LEV GORN IS AMAZING!!! Him and his make up artist Maria was the best. This was a wonderful experience I ever had. He is very compassionate and skilled he knows how to make you comfortable. You will not regret booking with him!!
Katarina MorhacovaKatarina Morhacova
22:21 22 Oct 22
Lev is one of the best headshot photographers I’ve worked with both in the US. and Europe. His knowledge of the industry, understanding of both actor and photographer needs and POV and his personality and attitude will get you the results you need! You won’t be disappointed and your headshots will get you called in for auditions!
C. Hope BelmontC. Hope Belmont
19:52 28 Sep 22
Simply put, Lev Gorn is a rockstar. Having been an actor for years, these are the best headshots I’ve ever gotten. Himself a working actor, Lev has a unique eye when it comes to what Casting & producers need. Kind, instinctive, with a detailed “prep”… our session went smoothly. Honestly, I went into this photo shoot with a “pandemic brain”, and left excited for what the future holds. I study my craft & network with CDs, but Lev Gorn‘s photos will open many more doors. It’s very exciting! Run to him people. Lev is the BEST headshot photographer in New York City!
Erin HorlemanErin Horleman
17:38 08 Sep 22
Would absolutely recommend working with Lev if you’re looking for a headshot photographer in NYC! Look no further. Lev was extremely professional from planning the shoot all the way through to the end. We were required to have our shots taken outside and Lev was extremely accommodating in rescheduling due to weather and schedule challenges. During the shoot he was super engaging and made sure my awkwardness in front of the camera didn’t come through at all. Schedule your shoot with him ASAP!
Geo MandellGeo Mandell
21:17 10 Aug 22
Lev is amazing! He handled our company headshots in June and was truly a joy to work with from the moment I called him for a quote to the day we received our final photos. He made the process very seamless and was beyond flexible with our ever changing schedule. On the day of, he was so great with our team. He was efficient and professional and frankly just extremely good at what he does. Beyond his refreshing candor, the photos came out amazing. He managed to a make all of us look so great and bright and refreshed all while feeling very natural. He is A++++.
Lisa RuaneLisa Ruane
11:02 25 Jun 22
Lev took my first headshots many, many years ago and when I decided to get new ones this year, it never even crossed my mind to call anyone else. Lev is a true professional. He knows the business inside and out, as he is also a talented actor. He takes all of the guess-work and nerves out of the experience, guiding you every step of the way. It is evident from your first conversation that he loves what he does and that you know you can trust his expertise! He plays great music in his bright studio and it is truly an all around fantastic experience. He seriously takes the best headshots in NYC! Thank you, Lev!
Kathryn O'ConnellKathryn O'Connell
21:51 01 Jun 22
After my LA based reps struck down a few nyc photographers I sent them, they ended up suggesting Lev and I’m so glad they found him! I was happy to see that Lev is himself a working actor, and I got the vibe that I was getting everything I needed and not wasting time on anything I did not. Totally easy and stress free shoot, and I can’t wait to start getting more auditions from my shots!
Sheila WalshSheila Walsh
18:46 20 May 22
Lev was very professional and efficient, and he knew exactly how to take the best shots. I was nervous, but he made the experience easy and fun. My headshots are going to look great for LinkedIn, corporate blogs, personal use, etc. I would highly recommend Lev for anyone in need of new or refreshed photos- excellent job!
Aiden SlavinAiden Slavin
18:54 19 May 22
Lev is the man! He is a great photographer and a pleasure to work with. He got my headshot done in a matter of days after we connected and the photos look great. He is open to suggestions but also not shy about giving direction to capture your best shot. Would absolutely recommend!
Nick HamparyanNick Hamparyan
23:43 27 Feb 22
I got my headshots taken with Lev and they turned out great! He is a true professional that understands the importance of taking photographs that highlight one's true essence. Moreover, working with Lev is sure to be a fulfilling experience as he encourages you to showcase your authentic self with the camera. Ultimately, his meticulous and thorough approach to producing the highest quality photographs is met with a genuine interest in fulfilling the client's needs.
craig woolridgecraig woolridge
22:31 12 Jan 22
I recently had the pleasure of meeting and working with Lev. What a fantastic experience. He made me feel comfortable, which allowed me to work and come alive for the camera. He’s a true professional and perfectionist. However, he will engage with you to get the best shot. I’ve worked with many photographers before; Lev is the real deal. If you're looking for the best headshots and images, look no further, Lev is your photographer!
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YOUR ACTOR HEADSHOT REQUIRES 3 ESSENTIAL COMPONENTS

1. Your individual qualities

However, getting that audition slot depends exclusively on your actor headshot. Your talent and hard work will only be seen if we get to audition for that special role that will launch your career. Nothing is more important than getting the right headshots in NYC.

2. Your specific castability

There are over 200 headshot photographers in New York City. Choosing one is like playing the lottery. Most photographers can take a nice picture of you. But a nice picture does not grab the casting director’s attention. A nice picture goes into the wastebasket!

3. Your dynamic range

What is the recipe that creates an actor headshot that brings you inside the audition room? What sort of headshot makes a casting director want to meet the person in the photograph? What kind of headshot stops a casting director in their tracks?
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Actor Headshots NYC FAQ

Getting the right actor headshots is no small feat! First, you have to choose a photographer who understands the needs of an actor. You don’t want someone who just knows how to take pictures—you need someone with experience in making actors look their best and helping them stand out from the competition. Good headshot photographers will be familiar with angles, lighting, and even wardrobe that can make or break a good photo.

Once you’ve chosen your photographer, it’s time to get in front of the camera. Every actor has different facial features and nuances that should be showcased differently in their headshots depending on what kind of roles they are targeting. Be prepared to experiment with various poses and expressions until you find the one that works for you. And don’t be afraid to try something out of the ordinary—you never know what might work best! Finally, make sure you have an arsenal of headshots that represent different characters and emotions so agents and casting directors can easily envision you in a variety of roles.

When you’re getting your actor headshots taken, it’s important that each look conveys the different characters you’ll be cast to play. This means that you should use different hairstyles, makeup looks, clothing styles, and poses to show off your range as an actor. Make sure the photographer is aware of what you’re trying to do so they can help you get the right shot. Additionally, it’s important to get headshots that look professional and polished. Choosing a reliable photographer who has experience with actor headshots is essential to getting the perfect shots. With clear, accurate images, you can show potential casting directors just how much range you have as an actor.

When it comes to professional actor headshots in NYC, you don’t want to skimp on quality and cost. After all, your headshot is the first thing casting directors will see of you and could potentially make or break your chances at booking a role! But how much should you expect to invest in the perfect portrait? On average, professional actor headshots taken by experienced photographers in New York City can range anywhere from $600 – $3,500 depending on package details and photographer reputation. Do not try to get a cheap photographer or bargain on price. Investing in a good headshot is an investment into your career and can be worth every penny!

Before deciding on anyone, research photographers in the area to compare their portfolios and prices. You can also ask friends that are already in the industry for references of local photographers they’ve used before. When you find someone who fits within your budget and has plenty of experience shooting headshots, make sure to set up a pre-shoot consultation with them so you both have an understanding of what type of look you want to go for and what areas need to be covered during the shoot day itself. A good photographer should always take the time to talk through logistics with each client and understand their specific needs as an actor. It’s also super helpful if your photographer is a professional actor too as they will have an even better understanding of what you need. Investing in the perfect headshot can truly be a game-changer! So take your time and make sure to do your research when it comes to budget and finding the right photographer for you.

Finally, treat your headshot session like any other audition. Be prepared for each shot, stay focused on the task at hand, and be confident in yourself no matter what happens. This will help ensure that your final images reflect the best version of yourself so that casting directors will take notice!

The key is to make sure your photo stands out from the crowd and accurately conveys your look. When preparing for an acting headshot, it’s important to make sure you look professional but still show your personality. Choose clothing that fits well and shows off your best features. If you’re going for a more traditional look, classic colors like black, navy blue or gray can be used as a base with hints of color in accessories or scarves. Your hair should be styled neatly, and if necessary bring along some extra products such as hairspray or pomade so your stylist can make adjustments when needed.

In addition to choosing appropriate clothing and grooming products, it’s also important to make sure your headshot is taken by a professional photographer who knows how to capture the right angle and lighting. They should be able to help you relax and feel comfortable in front of the camera so your personality can shine through. When looking at different photographers, be sure to ask to see samples of their work so you can get an idea of their style. Once you’ve found a photographer you’re happy with, it’s time to start thinking about poses. This is where having a variety of photos comes in handy, as you can try out different angles and expressions until you find the ones that work best for you.

When it comes to acting headshots, there are a few key elements to keep in mind. With the right clothing, grooming and photographer, you can be sure that your headshots will accurately reflect the image you want to project. Make sure you take the time to get everything just right, so your headshots can help showcase your talent and make a great impression on casting directors.

When you have a professional working actor as your headshot photographer, you get to benefit from their deep understanding of the industry. The insight that comes with having an insider’s perspective can help make sure your headshots are perfectly tailored for the roles you want to land. A professional actor has been in those same casting director chairs before and knows what they’re looking for in order to cast someone in a role.

Having a pro-actor behind the lens also means having someone who completely understands acting technique and how important it is to capture the right expression and emotion on camera. It’s not just about getting a nice picture; it’s about creating something powerful that captures exactly who you are as an actor. A professional actor has the ability to draw out your range and make sure every headshot is a true reflection of you as a performer.

Last but not least, a professional working actor knows how to make the whole process fun! Actor Headshots can be intimidating for some actors, so having someone behind the camera who’s encouraging and passionate about the craft can help ease any nerves or worries you may have. It’s also simply more enjoyable to work with someone who understands what it takes to be successful in this business, and that makes getting great shots easier than ever!

Bottom line: if you want great headshots that truly reflect your talent, having a professional working actor as your photographer is the way to go. Their insider knowledge and expertise will be invaluable in helping you get the shots you need to kickstart your career. Plus, it’s more fun with someone who understands the craft and can make sure you’re having a good time! So don’t wait—get started on booking that professional working actor as your headshot photographer today!

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Expert Industry Tools From Lev Gorn 

  • Get signed with an agent and manager
  • Be noticed by casting and directors
  • Book auditions
  • Meet film directors
  • Make awesome self-tapes and get callbacks
  • Plus more!!
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FREE
GUIDEBOOK

HOW TO BOOK YOUR FIRST ROLE!

Expert Industry Tools From Lev Gorn 

  • Get signed with an agent and manager
  • Be noticed by casting and directors
  • Book auditions
  • Meet film directors
  • Make awesome self-tapes and get callbacks
  • Plus more!!