What Should You Wear for Acting Headshots?
Have you ever wondered what to wear for actor headshots? When casting directors sit down to review submissions, they see your photo before they read your resume or watch your slate. They make instant judgments about you and your place in the industry based on that image alone. Having a strong wardrobe makes that decision easy. A weak wardrobe leaves them guessing and creates unnecessary friction.
Don’t let your wardrobe hinder your opportunities. Use this complete guide to wardrobe for actor headshots and learn how to choose outfits that help you stand out.
Why Does Wardrobe Matter for Actor Headshots?
Have you ever heard the saying “dress for the job you want, not the job you have”? Actors should dress for the roles they want to book. Your wardrobe should say loud and clear where you belong and what you should be casting for. If your clothes don’t match that image, you are creating a problem before casting directors have even seen you.
Tip: Keep It Simple
Your actor headshots should be focused on you and nothing else. Simple colors, basic textures, and slim cuts allow casting directors to focus on you rather than what you’re wearing. Busy patterns, loud graphics, and bold colors distract from your face. Remember, your face should be what attracts attention; your clothing should not.
Selecting Wardrobe by Casting Type
When choosing outfits for your headshots, it’s important to select a wardrobe that matches your intended casting type. Different styles can market you as more friendly and approachable (Commercial), serious and dramatic (Theatrical), professional and experienced (Authority), or natural and relatable (Everyday).
Mixing and matching your outfit can open you up to a wider range of casting opportunities. Take notes as we dive into each casting type.
How Many Outfits Should I Bring?
One. Too many actors show up to their session only prepared with one outfit. If you want to expand your casting options, you need to give your photographer options. Plan to bring at least three to four outfit changes with a good mixture of casual and professional looks.
Mixing up colors and tones is also important. Sometimes changing your look is as simple as adding a jacket or swapping out your shirt. These small changes can change your casting type without needing to change your entire setup.
Best Colors for Actor Headshots
Some colors look better in actor headshots than others. You want clothing that will compliment your skin tone and stand out on camera.
Blue, earth tones, and neutral colors are safe bets for headshots. Not every outfit needs to be these colors, but you should try to incorporate some options. Bright red, white, and black are tricky colors that need to be used with care. While they don’t necessarily look bad on camera, they can be overpowering and take focus away from your face.
Avoid Common Actor Headshot Wardrobe Mistakes
Believe it or not, some actors bring outfits that do not match their casting type. If you’re targeting commercials, don’t show up in headshots dressed to audition for a Shakespearean play. Stick with one look. Bringing multiple outfits allows you to create a variety of looks that you can use to target different types of casting.
Speaking of mistakes, avoid flashy jewelry and over-accessorizing your look. You also want to try to stay away from overly trendy clothes that will look dated in a few years.
Here in Cleveland, you should also…
Know Your Market
When we talk with actors about hiring a photographer in Cleveland, the first thing we mention is relevance. Yes, you’re in Cleveland but you’re also submitting to agencies and projects that expect New York/LA level photos. Your photos aren’t going to get you those jobs, but they can be a huge barrier if they don’t meet industry standards.
A simple way to ensure your photos stay relevant is by avoiding photos that look overly put together. Casting wants to see actors that they can picture in the roles they are casting. So, when you wear ultra trendy clothes or complicated hairstyles/cuts, you’re telling them you’re not “ready” to audition. Take cues from your favorite actors. Chances are they aren’t wearing a ballcap and Jordans in their headshots.
Should I Change Outfits?
Absolutely! Outfit changes are one of the easiest ways to diversify your actor headshots. By simply changing your look, you can open yourself up to a wider range of casting types and styles.
Ready to Book in Cleveland?
When you’re ready to book your next headshot session, let Capture Style Photography help you create a professional portfolio. Check out our Cleveland actor headshots to learn more about our process and how we can help you achieve your professional headshot goals.
Remember: your headshots are about selling yourself and getting cast. Your wardrobe should be intentional and help clarify who you are and what you can book. Need some help figuring out your wardrobe? Schedule your session with Capture Style Photography and we’ll work with you to put your best self forward!
