Your headshot is often the first impression you make in the entertainment industry. But what actually makes a great acting headshot? How do you choose the right photographer, know which looks to capture, and make sure your photos represent who you are as an actor?

This week on Behind the Curtain, I’m joined by Toronto-based headshot photographer Lauren Vandenbrook, who has been working in the industry for 18 years. We get into the world of headshot photography, what actors should know before stepping in front of the camera, the importance of capturing your personality, and how the right headshots can help you put your best foot forward in the casting process.

Whether you’re an emerging actor booking your first headshot session, or an experienced performer thinking about updating your portfolio, this conversation is full of insights to help you approach your next headshot session with more confidence.

And before you go, I have some exciting news! I’ve made it into the TOP 10 for the Top Host competition, and I’m hoping to make it into the Top 5! Your votes would mean so much. You can vote for me here:

https://tophost.org/2026/anastasia-pioro

Thank you for supporting Behind the Curtain and helping me keep these conversations going!

Follow Lauren on Instagram: @lvimagery

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creating a TV series is one thing. Getting people to watch it is another. How do you bring a creative idea to life, find your audience, and get your work out into the world?

In this episode of Behind the Curtain, I sit down with Jeff and Jake, the co-creators of Estate of Mind, a new series on Bell Fibe TV1. We discuss the creative process behind making the show, the decisions that shaped how the story was told, and why talking about your work and getting it in front of an audience can be just as important as creating it.

This conversation is for actors, comedians, filmmakers, and creatives navigating the entertainment industry who want to bring their ideas to life and build an audience for their work. If you’re interested in the realities of creating television and what it takes to get a project out into the world, this episode is for you.

Follow Estate of Mind on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/estateofmindtv/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What actually makes an actor stand out to a director? And what happens after you book the job?

Director and producer Daniel Tal takes us behind the scenes of casting, commercials, and life on set — including what directors notice in the audition room, the mistakes actors commonly make, and what can make a real difference once you’re working on set.

We also talk about Daniel’s experience working in the casting process, directing commercials in Toronto, collaborating with actors, and what he wishes more performers understood about the relationship between casting and directing.

If you’re an actor navigating auditions, commercials, film or television, this conversation offers a look at the industry from the other side of the camera — and some practical insight into how to show up prepared, professional and ready to work.

Follow Daniel on Instagram: @daniel_total

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.