The Actor’s Resume and Hard Copy Headshots
The Printed Headshot: Still a Thing (Sort Of)
Every actor who’s ever stepped foot in an audition room has heard it: “Bring an 8×10 headshot and resume.” And yes, that 8×10 — not 8.5×11 — detail is real. You could print on standard letter paper, but then you’d have a tiny white border that screams “newbie.” So we trim, because we care, or at least because tradition says we should.
The truth is, printed headshots aren’t nearly as crucial as they used to be. Most casting is done digitally now. But for the occasional callback (or any audition for stage) or that in-person meeting with a film/TV casting director who likes to have something tangible in hand, it’s still smart to keep a few crisp copies ready to go.
Printing Tips: Keep It Simple, Keep It Matte
Glossy paper might look flashy, but matte wins for one reason — no glare under lights. Casting directors need to see you, not a reflection of the overhead fluorescents.
When printing, go for true 8×10 paper if you can. If you end up using letter-size, trim it down. And when it’s time to attach your resume, line it up neatly on the back and secure it with four staples in each corner — not one in the middle. The goal is clean, flat, and professional.
If you’re printing a batch, try a reputable service like printheadshots.com, or check out your local FedEx or Minuteman Press. (RIP to the glory days of Costco’s photo center — they’ve retired from the headshot game.)
Resume Formatting: Clean, Clear, Industry Standard
A headshot is the visual. Your resume is the proof. Even if casting directors don’t keep the physical copy, they’ll notice if yours looks polished and easy to read.
Stick to a three-column layout for your credits — Project / Role / Company or Director. Use a simple, readable font (Arial, Helvetica, or Times New Roman). Avoid big blocks of text or unnecessary decoration.
Your contact info should be at the top — name, phone, email, and (if applicable) your agent or manager. No need to include your home address. Keep training and special skills at the bottom, and list your height and hair/eye color if you’re submitting for on-camera or theatre roles.
You can find a sample resume here.
Tradition Meets Practicality
Printed headshots might be fading, but they still serve as a small nod to professionalism — a handshake on paper. Think of it as an actor’s business card: less critical than it once was, but still a nice touch when the moment calls for it.
When a Comp Card Can Stand In
If you happen to already have a comp card lying around, it can sometimes double as a headshot for in-person auditions — especially if it has a clear primary headshot on the front. Comp cards usually feature multiple looks and a little more info than a standard headshot, but in a pinch, they’re better than showing up empty-handed. Just remember: if you’re using one, make sure the main photo is professional and easy to see.
Think of it as a versatile backup — a way to honor the tradition of printed headshots without having to run out and print a whole new batch.
Thanks for reading…
And break a leg at your next audition!