How to Prepare for Acting Headshots
Updated February 2026
Your headshot is a casting tool — it should look exactly like you on your best, real day. Bring a few looks so we can cover both commercial and theatrical, and change between setups.
Wardrobe
Choose solid colors that complement your eyes and skin. Fitted, simple pieces with a little texture (knits, henleys, fitted tees, light layers) photograph well. Different necklines and layers give us range. Bring three to five tops for different looks — wardrobe changes are part of an acting session.
Commercial look
Theatrical / legit look
Feel
Bright, friendly and current — the relatable person in the ad.
Feel
Deeper, grounded and a touch more dramatic — closer to character.
Wear
Soft solid colors, a casual button-down, polo or clean tee.
Wear
Richer tones, a textured knit, layered shirt or a simple jacket.
Avoid
Logos, busy patterns, pure white and pure black, and anything trendy that dates fast.
Avoid
Costumes or props — suggest the type, don’t dress as the character.
Hair, Makeup & Grooming
Look the way you do when you walk into the audition room. Keep your hair as you normally wear it, and decide on beard versus clean to match your castable look — don’t make a dramatic change right before the shoot. Makeup should be natural and matte; bring your own for touch-ups.
Expression
Casting responds to alive, honest eyes. We’ll work for relaxed, engaged expressions across your looks, so come well rested and ready to play.
What to Bring
Optional, but handy on the day:
- A hairbrush
- Touch-up makeup
- A wipe cloth for glasses
- A backup top, tie or jacket