Acting Polas: Why Every Actor Needs Natural Casting Photos
In the world of acting, your headshot is your calling card—but your “polas” (or digitals) are what get you in the audition room. While a professional headshot captures your range and brand, acting polas show casting directors exactly who you are today, without the artifice of heavy studio lighting or digital retouching.
Based in Ireland, I help actors create high-quality, natural casting photos that meet the strict requirements of agents and casting directors (CDs) across Europe.
What are Acting Polas?
Acting polas are simple, unedited, and authentic photographs. Unlike a theatrical headshot, which might be moodier or more “staged,” polas are shot in clean, natural light.
Casting directors use them to verify:
- Current hair length, color, and texture.
- Skin tone and unique features (scars, freckles, or tattoos).
- Actual physique and body proportions.
This prevents the “surprise” of an actor showing up to a set looking completely different from a headshot taken three years ago.
Mark P. O’Connor – irish actor
Beyond the Basics: Character & In-Situ Portraits
While standard polas are a requirement, a versatile actor’s portfolio should go further. My approach combines the neutrality of the digital with the depth of the character:
- In-Studio Character Studies: We realize the mandatory neutral shots, but we also explore specific archetypes. Using subtle lighting shifts, we can suggest characters—the corporate professional, the gritty detective, or the period drama lead—while keeping the look raw and unretouched.
- On-Location “In-Situ” Sessions: By moving outside the studio, we place you in real-world environments. These photos help Casting Directors visualize you in a cinematic context—whether it’s an urban street setting or a timeless Irish landscape.
These images are more than just photos; they are storytelling tools that prove you can inhabit a world, not just stand in front of a backdrop.
Mark P. O’Connor – irish actor
Polas vs. Professional Headshots: Why You Need Both
- The Headshot: Sells a “vibe” or a specific character type. It is an artistic representation of your brand as an actor.
- The Pola & Character Shot: Sell your “raw material” and your versatility. They allow a director to project their vision onto your face.
How to Prepare for Your Session
1. Wardrobe: Neutral and Timeless
Wear clothing that fits well but doesn’t distract. A plain t-shirt, a simple knit, or a classic tank top in solid, neutral colors works best. Avoid busy patterns or anything that feels too much like a “costume.”
2. Grooming and Makeup
- Makeup: Keep it minimal—what we call “camera-ready natural.” We need to see your skin.
- Hair: Style it as you usually wear it for auditions. If you have long hair, we will capture shots both with your hair down and pulled back.
The Required Industry Angles
During our session, we focus on clarity and presence. A standard set includes:
- Full Face (Close-up): Direct eye contact, neutral yet “engaged” expression.
- Profiles (Left & Right): Crucial for period dramas and profile-heavy cinematography.
- Half-Body (Mid-shot): To show your frame and posture.
- Full Length: To show height and proportions.
FAQ: Acting Digitals
Should I “act” in my polas? Keep it neutral but “available.” Your eyes should be active and “alive,” but your face should remain a blank canvas for the director’s imagination. We save the expressive work for our “Character” series.
When should I update them? Whenever you significantly change your appearance. If you cut your hair, change your color, or grow a beard, you need new polas immediately.
Mark P. O’Connor – irish actor
Get Casting-Ready in Ireland
Don’t let an outdated photo be the reason you miss an opportunity. Whether in the studio or on-location, let’s create professional images that represent your true potential.
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