Acting Headshot Looks

🎬 How to Plan Your Looks for an Acting Headshot Session

Planning your looks before your headshot session is one of the smartest things you can do. A “look” refers to a wardrobe + vibe combo that communicates a specific type or casting category. Here’s how to get it right:

🎭 1. Know Your Types

Before you pick out outfits, ask yourself:
What roles are you most likely to book right now?

Casting directors want to see you in the roles they’re hiring for, so think about:

  • Age range

  • Personality traits

  • Your essence (sweet? edgy? tough? funny?)

  • Current trends in film, TV, and commercials

Common types might include:

  • Young Professional / Business

  • Girl/Boy Next Door

  • Edgy or Gritty (cop, rebel, criminal)

  • Mom/Dad

  • Blue Collar / Working Class

  • Lead Actor/Love Interest

  • Nerdy / Quirky / Offbeat

  • Hipster / Creative Type

Pick 3–5 types you want to target.

👕 2. Choose Outfits That Match Each Look

Once you have your types nailed down, find clothing that helps sell each one. Avoid logos, wild patterns, and super trendy items that could distract. Think in terms of color, fit, and texture.

Tips:

  • Solid colors usually photograph best.

  • Bring layers: jackets, cardigans, vests, etc. give variety.

  • Necklines matter — different shapes flatter different face types and convey different energy.

  • Make sure clothes are clean, wrinkle-free, and fit well.

  • Don’t wear all black unless it’s part of the look (e.g. villain, edgy, etc.).

🎨 3. Pick Your Colors Strategically

  • Jewel tones (teal, burgundy, forest green, navy) flatter most skin tones.

  • Bold colors can make a headshot pop if they match your vibe.

Bonus Tip: Bring a few backup tops even if you’re unsure. It’s better to have too many options than not enough!

💇 4. Hair, Makeup & Grooming

Hair:
Have your hair clean and styled the way you would normally wear it to an audition. If you wear it curly sometimes and straight other times, plan accordingly — but don’t try to fit too many looks into one shoot.

Makeup:
Aim for clean and natural — not a full glam. If you’re hiring a makeup artist, make sure they specialize in headshots, not editorial or Instagram-style makeup. Our Makeup Artist does it perfectly for Acting Headshots.

Men:
Shave or groom facial hair depending on what you’re usually submitted for. If you book both clean-shaven and bearded looks. Bring your razor.

📸 5. Know What to Expect from Each Look

As your photographer, I’ll help bring out the right expressions and energy for each look. But the more prepared you are, the more confident you’ll feel in front of the camera. Think about:

  • What kind of scene would this character be in?

  • What emotion or tone fits this look?

  • Can you connect to it authentically?

🎒 Final Checklist: What to Bring

✅ 3–5 well-thought-out outfits (plus backups)
✅ Layering pieces (jackets, scarves, accessories)
✅ Simple jewelry, if any
✅ Hair products, brush/comb, makeup for touchups
✅ Positive energy — we're gonna have fun!

Questions?
If you're unsure about what types or clothes work best for you, feel free to email or text me photos beforehand. I’m happy to help you narrow it down.