Melbourne Headshot Photographers

So here’s the thing right: if you’re sitting there thinking to yourself  “maybe it’s time I update my headshots”. It’s time. So we’ve created our list of the best headshot photographers in Melbourne. 

Headshots, especially with a good photographer, can be costly ranging anywhere from $300 – $500. But you’re going to use them, so it’s money well spent. Obviously, there are always more affordable options, but from experience, my advice would be to save up and book in with one of the lovely people below. A headshot is the first thing an agent, director or casting director is going to see of you. So it needs to be good. So let’s get going… 

STEP #1…
Once you’ve got your money saved up and you know your budget, ask around. The best way to find out something about a photographer is to ask your fellow actors. Put a call out in a Facebook group or chat and see what other actors have to say. Ask them what their experience was like, how they felt about their shots, and if they would honestly recommend them? 

STEP #2…
Stalk them. Find them on Instagram and look at their work. How do you feel about the shots? Do you like them? You’ll know you’ve found the right photographer when you get excited about their photos – You’ll think to yourself “that’s a really good headshot, I want a headshot like that.” 

STEP #3…
If you’ve got an agent, check with them on who they’d like you to use. Agents tend to have photographers that they love and will want their actors to use them. If you’re freelance, like me, get your photos done with whoever you want! The world is your oyster! 

STEP #4…
Book your session! Great! That was an easy step!

I’ve asked a few friends to offer up their headshots as a point of reference for a few of the photographers on this list. Aren’t they all beautiful?! Obviously, this is only 1 photo, so be sure to check out more of their work. 

Headshot Tips!

• DO NOT get character shots. Character shots had a time and that time is not now, not ever. 
• DO NOT go crazy with make-up. Simple and natural is the best way to go – We want to see you. 
• DO NOT get headshots done then two weeks later change the colour of your hair or the cut. I’ve seen friends do this, you know who you are…. As soon as you change your look, you need to get new shots done again. 

Top Melbourne Headshot Photographers

Amelia J. Dowd

Update: We’ve been informed Amelia is relocating to Sydney as of 2026. We still think her shots are fantastic, so if you find yourself up Sydney way it is still well worth it to book in a session. 

I first came across Amelia’s work when I was producing a show, in auditions. An actor came in with a beautiful headshot and wanting in on the secret I asked who took it. My partner recently got some headshots with Amelia, and I was immediately sold that she would be my next photographer. Her photos have a beautiful warmth to them, you can feel that the actors are comfortable. They are always beautiful photos. Learn more. 

TIP – Amelia has put together a wonderful PDF on “Getting dressed for headshots…” that you can download for free through her website. Amazing right?! 

Jordan Briggs by Amelia J Dowd

Lachlan Woods

Lachlan has shot photos for actors repped by some of the best agents in Melbourne (and Australia). He’s also shot some of the best in the biz working in the industry today. He has been shooting actor headshots for over a decade, and the proof is in the pudding!

His website also has some fabulous advice on his website for headshot session tips, including finding your colours, how to prepare and more. Definitely check out Lachlan Woods Photography next time you’re looking for actor headshots in Melbourne!

Will McKenna by Lachlan Woods

Kate Williams

Kate is based in Sydney but does travel to Melbourne occasionally for shoots, so definitely hit her up if you like her style! Kate relies on her background as an actor to help bring ease and play to the shoots, and she’s been honing her craft for 10+ years. She considers putting actors at ease and capturing their essence some of her biggest strengths. Find out more at Kate Williams Photography.

Mia Beattie by Kate Williams

Marnya Rothe

Marnya travels all around Australia to shoot actors, and her headshot gallery is seriously studded with Australians stars. From Sam Neill, to Leah Purcell, to Casey Donovan, she’s shot the lot! Her studio is based in Sydney but she does natural light shoots in Melbourne. The natural light shots are pretty darn stunning, if we do say so ourselves! Check out her gallery on Maryna Rothe Photography and get in touch to book with her.

Adrienne Pickering by Marnya Rothe

Julian Dolman – Headshot Photographer

Julian usually shoots both in his Melbourne studio and in natural light in the same session, so you get a range of great options for your shoot! Julian has been working as a photographer for over 20 years and is super experienced. He’s got some great shots in his portfolio on his gallery at Julian Dolman, as well as his business website Melbourne Headshot Photographer. (With a business name like that, we wouldn’t be surprised if you already knew him just from Google SEO!) Julian is not one to be overlooked if you’re seeking actor headshots in Melbourne.

Lucinda Armstrong Hall by Julian Dolman

Zelman Cressey-Gladwin

Zelman creates a warm and welcoming environment for shooting headshots, and you can see it in his work! Being an actor himself, he understands just what is needed to create a great headshot. Whether you’re coming in for your first shoot, or you’re a seasoned pro looking for a refresh, Zelman makes sure you get the photos you want, and always makes sure you’re comfortable in your decisions. (He also doesn’t want you to break the bank, so that’s a massive plus!).

 

Vivienne Awosoga by Zelman Cressey-Gladwin

OUR OTHER FAVOURITES:

• Richard Turton
• Alex Vaughan
• Ashleigh Coleman

Headshots are fun! Enjoy them! Once you’ve got your photos sent to you, choose a handful of favourites and sit with them. Look at them a few times a day and see which ones jump out at you. Also, send them to a teacher or agent, get their opinion. Remember to choose the shots that look like you and would make you want to work with you. Good luck!