Photography

It's a Hollywood thing.  Actors or models often include, or are required to include, a head shot, along with other photographs, when applying for a job.  These are usually "artistic" – the subject portrayed in the best possible light.  So the subject is facing slightly or even significantly off-centre. Of course you will often provide a number of head shots – different poses and expressions to give the casting folks an idea of your "potential range of appearances."  There's more here – as these photographs are often shot specifically for use as promotional material – actor and entertainer resumes, press kits, lobby prints and all the rest.  And there you find how cruel the world is –

Even in this age of digital color, the 8 x 10 black and white headshot is still the industry standard. Talent agents and casting directors see hundreds of headshot photos cross their desks everyday typically giving each only a few moments of attention. They are seeking a particular "look" or "energy" in the image which is to be found in the projected personality, not in color of eyes or hair. Though the latter is important, they are typically evaluated later during the audition.