STANDARD | £200.00
- •1 hour session
- •3 edited images
Actor Headshots London | Professional Studio, South East London
Reviews
A small selection of reviews I've received over the last eight years.
5 out of 5 stars
5.0A selection from our 163 Google reviews
Olivia
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"If you have a chance to do so, I would highly recommend to book your headshots session with them. Maxim is an absolute pleasure to work with and the quality of his work is just outstanding. I finally have photos I feel confident with. Thank you!!!"
Richard
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"Maxim is a lovely chap, great to work with, brilliant value for money, and produces some great headshots to boot! I got some very marketable headshots in the hour we spent together, and I felt comfortable throughout. Also - though I know this can’t be guaranteed - he sent the retouches back quite quickly as well. 10/10, no notes."
Rosie
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"Maxim offers a calm and fun atmosphere, and really cares about getting the best shot. My pictures were all wonderful!"
EL
Elizabeth
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"Was so much fun shooting with Maxim. I've had so many compliments for the photos he took. I would 100% recommend."
Roger
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"“A relaxed and professional session - got everything I could have wanted. Good value too and on top of that thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommended.”"
Rik
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"Relaxed and unrushed session, broken up with indoor and outdoor shoots. The end results were great, not just a good variety of character shots but also a good variety of backgrounds and textures. Would recommend for actors seeking professional headshots."
Emily
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"I enjoyed my time working with Maxim throughout my time getting headshots. He created a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere throughout the session, and his positive personality made the experience enjoyable! I absolutely recommend :)"
Michelle
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"“I am impressed with Maxim's work and I would absolutely recommend him. I booked a one hour headshot session recently after seeing an advertisement on Mandy.com and Maxim was so time efficient that I have three outfit options with both studio and outdoor settings. I received my contact sheets the same day and the final versions within 2 days. They are exactly the shots I needed and the shoot was seamless.”"
Georgia
Actor
5 out of 5 stars
"Maxim is a fantastic photographer and made me feel so relaxed and confident during the shoot. He has provided such quick turnaround times and even managed to get me one shot ahead of schedule for a last-minute audition. I will definitely be visiting again for any future headshots!"
Experienced Actor Headshot Photographer in Herne Hill, South London
I'm Maxim, a professional actor headshot photographer based in South East London, with more than eight years of experience and thousands of actors photographed across London. My studio is in Herne Hill, five minutes from Brixton (Victoria line) and twelve minutes from London Bridge, making it genuinely accessible from anywhere in the city.
I photograph actors at every stage of their career, from drama school students preparing for their first agent submission to established performers refreshing their portfolio.
Previous clients include Ross Armstrong (The Crown, Ripper Street and Endeavour), Roger Ringrose (Berlin Station, The Hack and The Long Shadow), Michael Smiley (for Kill List (2011), Free Fire and Alien: Earth)
Sessions are relaxed, pressure-free and guided, covering Spotlight profiles, casting submissions, self-tape thumbnails, agent applications and theatre programmes. Whether you need clean studio lighting, natural light portraits or outdoor looks, I help you build a set of images that shows your range, personality and castability.
I photograph actors at every stage of their career, from drama school students preparing for their first agent submission to established performers refreshing their portfolio.
Previous clients include Ross Armstrong (The Crown, Ripper Street and Endeavour), Roger Ringrose (Berlin Station, The Hack and The Long Shadow), Michael Smiley (for Kill List (2011), Free Fire and Alien: Earth)
Sessions are relaxed, pressure-free and guided, covering Spotlight profiles, casting submissions, self-tape thumbnails, agent applications and theatre programmes. Whether you need clean studio lighting, natural light portraits or outdoor looks, I help you build a set of images that shows your range, personality and castability.
What Makes a Strong Actor Headshot?
A strong actor headshot is clear, natural and free of distractions. It shows your true casting type and personality. My approach focuses on clean lighting, natural expression and subtle framing that works across Spotlight, Mandy, agency websites and casting submissions. The goal is to present you clearly without heavy styling or over retouching.
Actor Headshots for Drama School Students and Graduates
If you are just starting out, I offer simple and affordable headshot sessions designed to help you build your first professional portfolio. I guide you through outfit choices and expression so you feel confident throughout the process. These sessions work well for drama school applications, graduate announcements and early agent submissions.
Headshots for Film, TV, Theatre and Commercial Casting
My actor headshots are used across film and television casting, theatre productions and commercial work. Whether you need a friendly commercial look, a grounded theatrical option or a more intense dramatic style, I help you create images that reflect your casting range. Each look is built around natural expression and clear storytelling.
Transparent Pricing and Value
I offer the best quality-to-value actor headshots in London, with clear pricing and no hidden charges. Every session includes professional lighting, direction, outfit guidance and edited final images, with three flexible packages to suit different career stages. Extra edits are available if you need more options for Spotlight or agent submissions.
Preparing for Your Headshot Session
Bring a selection of simple, well fitted outfits in neutral colours that suit your casting type. Layers such as a jacket, overshirt or knitwear work well. Avoid heavy patterns and distracting accessories. If you would like advice before your session, you can send me photos of your clothing options and I can help you choose.
After your Shoot
You will receive a private proof gallery where you can choose your favourite images. Your selected headshots are edited carefully for clarity, consistency and skin tone while keeping a natural finish. They are delivered in high resolution with versions suitable for Spotlight, agencies, print and online use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear for my actor headshots?+
Choosing the right wardrobe for your actor headshots is important as it can impact how casting directors perceive you and the roles for which you might be suitable.
Here are some tips to help your decide on the options you bring:
Simple and Solid Colours
I recommend you bring a range of different tops with simple and solid colours that complement your skin tone and/or eye colour. Solid colours tend to photograph well and draw attention to your face.
Avoid Busy Patterns
Avoid clothing with busy patterns, or large logos, unless there’s a very specific look you’re going for, or if you are choosing a longer headshot session where we’ll be doing portraits as well. Patterns and logos can divert attention away from your face, which is the main focus of the headshot.
Wear What Reflects Your Casting Type
Select outfits that align with the types of roles you are interested in. If you often audition for professional roles, consider business-casual attire. For more casual or character roles, choose appropriate clothing.
Bring Variety
Consider bringing a few wardrobe options to the session to capture different looks. This can include variations in colour, neckline, and formality. Layers, such as a cardigan, blazer, or jacket can also add visual interest to your photos.
Be Comfortable and Confident
Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Your body language and expression in the photos should reflect a sense of ease and authenticity.
Consider Your Headshot's Purpose
Think about the roles you typically go for and choose clothing that fits those roles. For example, if you often audition for period dramas, classic and timeless clothing may be more appropriate.
Grooming
Ensure your clothing is clean, well-fitted, and in good condition. Try to avoid creases and if you have a sticky roller, bring it along to remove any fluff or pet hairs.
Remember that the main goal is to present yourself authentically and professionally. Your headshots should reflect the essence of who you are as an actor and the diverse roles you can portray. Bring as many tops as you are happy to carry and we can select the best options together.
Here are some tips to help your decide on the options you bring:
Simple and Solid Colours
I recommend you bring a range of different tops with simple and solid colours that complement your skin tone and/or eye colour. Solid colours tend to photograph well and draw attention to your face.
Avoid Busy Patterns
Avoid clothing with busy patterns, or large logos, unless there’s a very specific look you’re going for, or if you are choosing a longer headshot session where we’ll be doing portraits as well. Patterns and logos can divert attention away from your face, which is the main focus of the headshot.
Wear What Reflects Your Casting Type
Select outfits that align with the types of roles you are interested in. If you often audition for professional roles, consider business-casual attire. For more casual or character roles, choose appropriate clothing.
Bring Variety
Consider bringing a few wardrobe options to the session to capture different looks. This can include variations in colour, neckline, and formality. Layers, such as a cardigan, blazer, or jacket can also add visual interest to your photos.
Be Comfortable and Confident
Wear clothing that makes you feel comfortable and confident. Your body language and expression in the photos should reflect a sense of ease and authenticity.
Consider Your Headshot's Purpose
Think about the roles you typically go for and choose clothing that fits those roles. For example, if you often audition for period dramas, classic and timeless clothing may be more appropriate.
Grooming
Ensure your clothing is clean, well-fitted, and in good condition. Try to avoid creases and if you have a sticky roller, bring it along to remove any fluff or pet hairs.
Remember that the main goal is to present yourself authentically and professionally. Your headshots should reflect the essence of who you are as an actor and the diverse roles you can portray. Bring as many tops as you are happy to carry and we can select the best options together.
Should I wear makeup?+
Whether or not to wear makeup for your actor headshots is a personal choice. I advise that if you do, apply a minimal amount and bring some along to add if necessary.
If you decide to wear makeup, aim for a natural and subtle look. The goal is to enhance your features without appearing overly made up.
Remember that actor headshots should show off the natural you, showing off your character range, rather than showing off your makeup artist skills.
I’d also recommend that if you regularly wear makeup, try to avoid using it for a few days to a week before your shoot. This will give your skin a nice rest.
If you decide to wear makeup, aim for a natural and subtle look. The goal is to enhance your features without appearing overly made up.
Remember that actor headshots should show off the natural you, showing off your character range, rather than showing off your makeup artist skills.
I’d also recommend that if you regularly wear makeup, try to avoid using it for a few days to a week before your shoot. This will give your skin a nice rest.
Can I bring a friend or family member to the photoshoot?+
I am happy for you to bring a friend/parent/sibling along to cheer you on. However, please keep in mind that having someone else present can sometimes be distracting and may affect your focus and confidence in front of the camera.
If you would like to do this, please notify me beforehand.
If you would like to do this, please notify me beforehand.
I don't like having my pictures taken, do you offer any direction?+
No worries. Many actors feel the same. My photoshoots are very relaxed and we'll have a chat along the way. I'm always happy to offer direction and do it in a chilled way. 🙂
If you are camera shy, I recommend booking a longer session, such as the Performance package as it gives you more time to relax and forget there is a camera between us.
If you are camera shy, I recommend booking a longer session, such as the Performance package as it gives you more time to relax and forget there is a camera between us.
I woke up this morning with a spot the size of the moon, can we still do the shoot?+
Don’t stress, with years of experience editing actor headshots, I can confidently say that I can remove a spot. You don’t even need to worry about putting concealer on it. In fact I’d prefer it if you didn’t as this can limit the usable skin texture around the spot that I can clone to cover it up.
Can I get the images in black and white?+
Yes. If you’d like me to provide the edited images in black and white, just ask during the shoot. 🙂
How often should I update my actor headshots?+
It’s worth updating your actor headshots any time you make a significant change to your appearance, such as changing your hair colour.
Another time you might consider updating your headshots is if you are going for a specific casting. If you are only in need of one shot for this, my Top-Up package would be a great option.
As an added bonus, if you are a returning customer, you can get a 20% discount on any of my packages.
Another time you might consider updating your headshots is if you are going for a specific casting. If you are only in need of one shot for this, my Top-Up package would be a great option.
As an added bonus, if you are a returning customer, you can get a 20% discount on any of my packages.
How many actor headshots should I have in my portfolio?+
There is no strict rule about the exact quantity of headshots you should have, however, it’s good to have a variety that showcase your versatility and suitability for different roles.
A guideline to consider would be three or more that show a serious side, smiling, contemplative etc. Showcasing diversity in your expressions can demonstrate your acting range.
Within your range of headshots, alongside different clothing and background changes, you can show versatility in looks by changing your hair, or other elements of your appearance, such as with and without facial hair.
A guideline to consider would be three or more that show a serious side, smiling, contemplative etc. Showcasing diversity in your expressions can demonstrate your acting range.
Within your range of headshots, alongside different clothing and background changes, you can show versatility in looks by changing your hair, or other elements of your appearance, such as with and without facial hair.
When will I receive my edited headshots?+
Editing time is usually 7-10 business days from when you let me know your choices and I send them either as an email attachment or upload to dropbox.
Editing time is the same for all packages, as I edit each clients images in the order that they are received.
Sometimes, with a strong wind behind me, I’ll complete the edits and get them back to you sooner.
If you would like your edits faster, 48h express editing is available to purchase as an add-on.
Editing time is the same for all packages, as I edit each clients images in the order that they are received.
Sometimes, with a strong wind behind me, I’ll complete the edits and get them back to you sooner.
If you would like your edits faster, 48h express editing is available to purchase as an add-on.
Should my headshots focus on a specific character type?+
Whilst your headshots should reflect your versatility, it's also beneficial to have shots that highlight specific character types you can convincingly portray. This helps casting directors envision you in roles relevant to their projects.
Do you have availability on evenings or weekends?+
I do. 🙂
My evening and weekend photoshoots include an additional surcharge to accommodate out-of-hours scheduling: £50 for evenings and £100 for weekends.
The Standard Package evening session is available to book via the website, for Monday or Thursday evenings.
If you would like to book another package for an evening session, or to enquire about a weekend photoshoot, please contact me.
During the winter months evening shoots are only conducted in-studio, while summer provides the flexibility for both studio and outdoor settings.
Despite these surcharges, my packages still remain competitively priced, offering greater value than many London-based photographers for comparable actor headshot packages.
My evening and weekend photoshoots include an additional surcharge to accommodate out-of-hours scheduling: £50 for evenings and £100 for weekends.
The Standard Package evening session is available to book via the website, for Monday or Thursday evenings.
If you would like to book another package for an evening session, or to enquire about a weekend photoshoot, please contact me.
During the winter months evening shoots are only conducted in-studio, while summer provides the flexibility for both studio and outdoor settings.
Despite these surcharges, my packages still remain competitively priced, offering greater value than many London-based photographers for comparable actor headshot packages.
Do you have a makeup artist?+
I don't include a makeup artist as part of sessions. For actor headshots, makeup is best kept light and natural, so most clients find they don't need one.
If you would like to bring your own makeup artist, please book the Performance or Showcase package to allow enough time, and let me know in advance so I can plan the session accordingly.
If you would like to bring your own makeup artist, please book the Performance or Showcase package to allow enough time, and let me know in advance so I can plan the session accordingly.
Where are you based?+
The studio is in Herne Hill, South East London, SE24. The nearest rail station is Herne Hill (Thameslink), which is seven minutes from Victoria, twelve minutes from City Thameslink and around twenty minutes from St Pancras. Brixton underground station (Victoria line) is a twenty-minute walk or short bus ride, giving direct connections to Victoria (4 minutes), Oxford Circus (9 minutes) and King's Cross (15 minutes). The studio is also a short walk from North Dulwich station with trains from London Bridge.
The studio is also well served by buses from Clapham, Stockwell, Camberwell, Peckham, Streatham and Tulse Hill. On street parking is available with Pay by Phone between 12pm-2pm and free at other times during the day. The full address and a map are below.
The studio is also well served by buses from Clapham, Stockwell, Camberwell, Peckham, Streatham and Tulse Hill. On street parking is available with Pay by Phone between 12pm-2pm and free at other times during the day. The full address and a map are below.
How do I book an outdoor shoot?+
Outdoor sessions are available on request alongside studio work. I use locations within walking distance of the studio that work well for natural light portraits. If you'd like to include outdoor looks as part of your session, just mention it when booking and I'll plan the session around that. Outdoor shoots are weather-dependent, and during winter months we'd typically focus on studio work with an outdoor option available in warmer seasons.
Do you work with child actors?+
I do photograph actors of all ages. For child actors the Standard package is recommended as longer sessions can be a bit tiring for them. A parent or guardian will need to be present throughout.
Are your headshots accepted by Spotlight?+
Yes. Images are delivered in formats compatible with Spotlight's upload requirements. If your agent or a specific casting platform has particular technical requirements, let me know before the session and I'll make sure your files meet them.
Can I use the headshots for purposes other than acting, such as a personal website or social media?+
Yes. The images are licenced for non-commercial use across all personal and professional contexts, including your personal website, social media profiles and any casting or agency submissions.