Headshot Photography
Headshots That Command Attention: Precision Photography by Empire West Studios
A great commercial or corporate headshot is more than a photograph—it’s your first impression, your professional signature, and often your entry pass for TV, film, theatre, and print. At Empire West Studios, we specialize in headshots and corporate photography that communicate presence, professionalism, and individuality.
The days of the smiling commercial headshot as the only tool in an actor’s casting arsenal are long gone. While a commercial headshot is designed to sell products in TV campaigns, actors pursuing film or stage roles require a more strategic collection. Each image must convey character, tone, and versatility. Martin Scorsese once noted, “…if they could just have helped us out a little…”—underscoring how difficult it is for directors and casting professionals to evaluate talent from generic images. That’s why our approach is meticulous: every headshot at Empire West is crafted with the role in mind, lighting and wardrobe designed to complement character choices.
Clayton Hall, with over 30 years of experience photographing top talent in New York and Phoenix, directs sessions with an acute understanding of what casting directors and executives notice first: presence, expression, and alignment with the intended role. Barbara Elaine Muller ensures hair, make-up, and styling elevate every detail without overpowering the subject. Together, they produce commercial headshots in Phoenix that are memorable, professional, and strategically positioned to open doors.
Beyond standard headshots, we provide “in-character” images, full-length shots, and film-strip-style montages that showcase versatility. This approach ensures your portfolio communicates readiness for both commercial and dramatic roles. Clients leave with images that not only satisfy immediate casting needs but also support long-term career growth.
Whether you need a corporate headshot photographer for executive portraits or a commercial headshot photographer for casting submissions, our sessions are collaborative. Every element—from lighting and wardrobe to posing and final selection—is carefully curated. Clients review images on a 27-inch iMac to ensure each photograph meets aesthetic and career objectives.
In today’s competitive, digital-first environment, your headshot is your introduction. It needs to work harder than ever, conveying authenticity and authority in a glance. Choosing the best headshot photographer in Phoenix ensures that your first impression resonates with casting directors, agents, and executives.
Contact us today to schedule your session with Empire West Studios and create headshots that command attention, open doors, and give you the competitive edge every actor or professional deserves.
