Ask you agent to provide you with a list of headshot photographers in your area. Larger agencies may have their own headshot photographer, but smaller ones should maintain a list of reputable photographers. If you do not yet have an agent, ask your acting school or drama professors for recommendations.
Look for headshots from other actresses in your area that you like and ask them who did their headshots. A recommendation from a fellow actress with a portfolio of impressive headshots will help you find your own photographer.
Check bulletin board postings at schools for acting, modeling and photography for postings made by photographers looking for models to shoot. New photographers are also seeking to build their portfolios, and many offer their services for free in exchange for the rights to use your headshot in their own portfolio.
Ask for samples from a variety of headshot photographers before selecting one to do your photos. Not all photographers understand how to snap a proper headshot, and not all headshot photographers will be experienced with your specific needs. A headshot for a comedy stage actress, for example, may be different than a headshot for a dramatic film actress. Choose a photographer with a portfolio of headshots that look like the ones you want.
Generate a variety of headshots that match each of your personalities and potential roles. Casting directors want to see your strengths as an actress, so provide headshots that show you dramatically, humorously, young, old and in a variety of circumstances so that you always have a headshot that matches the part you are seeking to play.
Ask your chosen photographer if he provides a make-up artist. Your portfolio headshots should look their best, and many photographers who specialize in actress headshots will keep a make-up artist on staff. His answer will determine whether or not you apply your own make-up before the shoot.