In the world of acting, a great performance is immortalized through film, but a truly iconic presence is captured in a single portrait. As a Los Angeles-based headshot photographer, I have had the privilege of photographing some of the finest actors in the industry—artists whose faces tell the stories of their careers, their struggles, and their triumphs. Among them were three Hollywood legends who have since passed but whose impact on the industry remains indelible: Richard Herd, René Auberjonois, and Mark Margolis.
Through my lens, I was able to preserve a moment in time for these remarkable actors. This blog post is a tribute to their legacy, their artistry, and the importance of professional headshots in capturing the essence of an actor’s craft.
Richard Herd: A Face That Told a Thousand Stories
Richard Herd LA Greats: Remembering Three Legendary Actors Through Portraits by Rory Lewis
When I photographed Richard Herd in 2016, I knew I was in the presence of a true Hollywood veteran. Known for his roles in T.J. Hooker, V, and F.I.S.T., Richard’s career spanned decades, making him one of the most recognizable faces in film and television. What struck me most about him, however, was not just his impressive résumé but his passion for art. Invited into his home for the session, I was treated to a personal tour of his paintings, including a stunning portrait of fellow actor Rod Steiger.
Richard was an ideal subject. His face bore the marks of a life fully lived—each line a testament to his journey in the industry. He embodied every expression with ease, making my job effortless. At one point, he even swore at me in jest to give me the perfect look of fury—a moment that resulted in one of the most powerful images of my career.
📅 Died: May 26, 2020 (Age 87) | Los Angeles, CA
René Auberjonois: The Master of Expression
René Auberjonois LA Greats: Remembering Three Legendary Actors Through Portraits by Rory Lewis
René Auberjonois was a master of transformation. Whether on stage or screen, his presence was unforgettable. Best known for M.A.S.H., Star Trek: Deep Space Nine, and Boston Legal, René had a distinct look that only became more compelling with age. When I reached out for a sitting in 2015, I was honored that he agreed.
René, who traced his lineage back to Napoleon’s brother-in-law, carried himself with a noble air. Inspired by my previous portraits of Sir Ian McKellen, he requested a similar lighting setup—a challenge I was delighted to take on. What resulted was a series of headshots that not only captured his distinctive profile but also his emotional depth. Each frame radiated intensity, a testament to his incredible talent.
📅 Died: December 8, 2019 (Age 79) | Los Angeles, CA
Mark Margolis: A Legacy of Intensity
Mark Margolis LA Greats: Remembering Three Legendary Actors Through Portraits by Rory Lewis
Mark Margolis was a force of nature, known for his chilling portrayal of Hector Salamanca in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, a role that earned him an Emmy nomination. I first met Mark in 2015 while he was enjoying a quiet cigarette break in Los Angeles. Approaching him with admiration for his work, I was met with warmth and enthusiasm.
Soon after, Mark and his wife, Jacqueline, agreed to a portrait session. The resulting images were intimate, revealing not just the hardened intensity of Hector Salamanca but the warmth and wisdom of the man behind the role. Our second and final session took place in 2019 in New York, where I captured a contemplative portrait for my Selah project. Inspired by Renaissance portraiture, I used dramatic lighting to highlight his profound gaze—one that spoke volumes beyond words.
📅 Died: August 3, 2023 (Age 83) | New York, NY
Why Every Actor Needs a Timeless Headshot
A headshot is more than just an image; it is an actor’s calling card. It speaks before they do, offering a glimpse into their versatility, character, and presence. Working with legendary actors like Herd, Auberjonois, and Margolis reinforced my belief in the power of portraiture to capture not just a person’s appearance but their essence.
What Sets a Great Headshot Apart?
Authenticity – Casting directors want to see the real person behind the performance. A great headshot brings out natural expressions and personality.
Timelessness – A well-crafted portrait should not be trendy but classic, standing the test of time.
Depth & Storytelling – Just like a compelling film, a headshot should evoke emotion and intrigue.
The Right Photographer – Working with an experienced photographer who understands lighting, angles, and the nuances of expression is crucial.