In the competitive world of acting, a good portfolio is something you need to set yourself apart. A well-crafted portfolio shows off your talent, versatility and creative abilities. It can capture casting directors’ attention, helping you land the roles you want.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide for building an acting portfolio that makes the impression you want it to. You can use these steps as an acting portfolio template, filling in each step with your own details, to create the perfect portfolio.

Step 1: Having a Professional Headshot

Your headshot is one of the first things directors will see when they look at your acting portfolio. So, you need to invest in a good one!

Choose a headshot that feels natural, one that is well-lit (not overexposed or overly shadowy) Consider your casting, and the characteristics that are ‘who you are’, this should inform your thoughts, and expressions across the shoot. You want some variety in look, but it’s also not about ‘showing characters’ instead it’s about providing an indication towards what you are good at, look like, and likely to play.

Usually we would recommend one that is you most natural and open, one to one side of your casting, and one to the other, and if neither of those is ‘commerical’ (advert like – smiley, bright, exuberant), then a fourth for this.

Step 2: Creating a Detailed CV

Creating your CV is the next key step in your journey toward the perfect portfolio

Your CV is a detailed summary of your acting experience, skills and training. It should be clear, concise and professional. Some sections you should include…

Personal details: Like your name, age, height and contact information
Experience: Any acting roles you have been involved in, detailing the production company/director
Training: Any acting schools you attended, such as Italia Conti, along with workshops and masterclasses
Skills: Highlight any specific skills, like stage combat, movement or dance skills, singing, sports, or accents

Also, remember that your CV is a living document, you should update it often as your roles and experience change.

Step 3: Your Showcase Reel

Your showcase reel is probably the most important part of your acting portfolio. It’s a brilliant way to communicate your talent and abilities to casting directors. The reel should be a short (usually 2-3 minute) compilation of your best performances, across a variety of roles.

You should include a range of acting portfolio examples, covering different styles and character types. In most instances this should be made up of professional (or showreel company created) footage: always make sure you include high-quality footage. Avoid shaky camera recordings and poorly lit backgrounds.

TOP TIP: Keep it short and sweet. Choose your most impactful performances, to leave a lasting impression.

Step 4: Testimonials and Reviews

Much like references, acting portfolios should focus on testimonials and reviews. Try to get short quotes from directors, coaches or peers who have appraised you. Or, even better, if anything you have worked on has been featured in the press, you could link to this in your portfolio too. This can be put on your spotlight or website.

Step 5: Organising Your Portfolio

Your portfolio should be easy to browse and navigate. Nowadays, most actors will go for a digital portfolio (on Spotlight, Website, Social Media), as this can have your showreel embedded into it. You can use platforms like Framer to help you build an aesthetically appealing digital portfolio.

Standing Out

Your acting portfolio should set you apart. It’s your introduction to directors and casting teams, so make it polished and balanced, but most importantly, make it you.