Taz Skylar - Taken by Chris Mann. He has a sense of self and a positivity that is a force to be reckoned with... and he has stubble, sort of...  

My sensible answer:
I’d say it depends on what parts you get seen for. If your casting is young (I mean really young) then go clean shaven. If you’re right for Viking or Game of Thrones parts then I’d say have a decent beard and own it. The best all round look is a bit of stubble, it adds a texture to your face, shows that you are capable of growing a beard and doesn’t alienate you from any parts.
 
My honest feeling:
Do what you want, a really alive interesting headshot will get you in the room because you look interesting. The industry is saturated with actors seeking approval when actually, castings exist because they are looking for actors with answers. Stop thinking that the industry dictates what you do with your face, hair and body. Before I became a photographer I was an actor, and before that I used to play rugby. I stopped playing rugby because I was told that my casting was ‘young romantic’ and I should look after my face. At the time I listened because I was looking for answers, but the reality is, I’d have made a much better Romeo with a broken nose.

About Chris
Web: www.chrismannportraits.com
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Don't waste your hard-earned cash! Prepare to Succeed in your next Actors Headshot Shoot.
Photographer in Focus: 60 seconds with Chris Mann
Behind the Scenes; in the studio with APHP member Chris Mann