How to create…
The Three Outfits Every Casting Director Looks For
Whether you’re just getting started with your acting career, or going for a fresh update….
These 3 looks will get you prepared to audition for all types of roles, in nearly every market.
Let’s take a look at how to create each outfit so are your headshots stand out to casting directors.
DISCLAIMER: Every agency and coach has different preferences, which vary depending on your market! I’ve found that some loves stripes (and even request them for their talent), and some hate them and ask for a re-shoot. Some want more of your unique personality showcased in your outfits (even going as far as choker necklaces and loud headbands), and some want neutral/versatile.
ALWAYS consult your agency before choosing your outfits. This guide is designed to get you started if you aren’t sure where to begin! Now let’s get to it!
Look Number 1:
The Friendly, Approachable Type
Every actor who wants consistent work should have a look that is suitable for roles that could be seen in light-hearted tv shows, movies where there is a sweet and kind lead, or bubbly best friend, comedy movies, or for the Florida market especially - commercials.
It may be hard to believe, but one outfit can meet the needs of each of these types!
Step 1: Choose a fun, eye-candy-type color
The color you pick is extremely important for this type. Go with a color that is either vibrant and rich in saturation, or slightly less saturated, but still friendly, light-hearted, and fun (like salmon or dusty blue).
Colors like emerald green, dusty blue, denim, cobalt blue, yellow, orange, purple, and pink are all great choices.
Your color should enhance your eyes and go well with your skin tone. For lighter skin, I recommend jewel tones and denim. For darker skin, go with brighter colors like yellow or pink.
Don’t let your color be too bright! Neon tones are too dominant.
Don’t go with pale colors - they tend to wash out any skin tone.
Step 2: Add a second layer option
This step is optional, but recommended :)
We will shoot with and without your second layer for a good variety of options. This type often wears a layer in the roles themselves, so picking an easy-breezy button-up shirt or jacket overtop can help casting directors envision you in the role.
Your layer will help break up the color if it’s quite strong / dominant, and a second layer helps you feel more casual and easy-going
Step 3: Complete the outfit, head-to-toe
If your agency needs a full-body shot for your portfolio, finish the look with a neutral pant and a new/like-new pair of shoes.
The commercial look is the most common full-body shot request from agencies.
For shoes, wear loafers, white tennis shoes (no obvious logos), boat shoes, or even pumps for women are all good choices. I recommend avoiding open-toed shoes for adults. Unless the socks are truly part of the look, try to wear low-profile socks, or no socks.
Step 4: Try on your outfit!
Make sure your outfit fits you well (but not too tight!)
Your outfit also needs to be modest for this look. Keep necklines a bit higher, and avoid sleeveless shirts.
Make sure your shoes are clean/like new, and your entire outfit goes well together.
Look Number 2:
Neutral Theatrical / Dramatic Roles Type
If you plan to do more than commercial work, you will need a simple theatrical look.
Theatrical headshots for screen actors represent more serious roles. Whether you would like to try for dramatic TV shows or films, a semi-serious headshot is going to help you appear professional and ready for the big screen.
These look is also appropriate for theater actors on the stage!
Step 1: Choose a medium-to-dark color
For this look, you need your outfit to convey a bit of gravitas, if you will.
Go for neutral tones that are medium-to-dark. Think more muted and less saturated.
Olive green, deep dusty blue, navy blue, gray, and black are good choices.
Keep this look to one layer only, unless your agency is asking for something else. Our focus needs to be on you! Your engaging expression and a tiny showcase of your acting abilities need to steal the spotlight here, not your outfit.
Don’t let your color be too rich! Saturated tones can feel too specific in type or dominant. For instance, red always gives “leading sexy lady with a strong personality.” Instead, go for deep salmon or muted maroon.
Don’t go with lighter colors when possible.
Step 2: Consider your neckline, and go for long sleeves
Women should generally have a slightly lower neckline to help lengthen the neck, but still showing no cleavage, which can distract from your expression and feel too type-specific.
Also, I recommend long sleeves, as skin always draws the eye, and short sleeves can feel too casual. Avoid sleeveless.
Off-the-shoulder is ok, though!
Guys, keep your outfit simple. A t-shirt, henley, or button-up will be perfect.
Look Number 3:
Something more type-specific
Now that you have your two basic looks taken care of, it’s time to let your personality show, and your point-of-view as an actor.
Are you great with comedic roles? Prefer to book professional roles like FBI Agent or cop? Are you typically known as the protagonist or bad guy? These all have different needs for outfits.
Most agencies prefer to see a hint of the type (we can avoid putting a stethoscope on to represent doctor, for instance, unless your agency has requested something so specific). If you get TOO specific, your headshots will be too limiting to use regularly.
Step 1: Decide which type you want represented
If you aren’t quite sure what your types are yet, you can check out this article from Backstage about defining your type.
Types are determined not only by your preferences and talent, but also how you look, your age, gender, and more.
Some common types for adult actors are:
Queen bee / ball-busting CEO
Geek
Guy/Girl next door
Bad boy biker
Suburban dad
Wealthy Country Club
Step 2: Shop for an outfit that clearly represents that type
Not sure how? My best advice is to watch shows with your type and see what they’re wearing!
If they’re wearing clothes that might be too specific (think a gangster loaded up with chains and jewelry), omit the super-specific parts (jewelry), and take the rest as inspiration.
Don’t shop for cheap clothing - tempting though it might be. Cheap clothing normally photographs.. well.. cheap. You don’t have to shop and high-end stores, but try to make sure the clothing is quality.
A few important things to remember for your headshot session:
Hair and makeup matters.. a LOT.
I strongly recommend getting the professional hair and makeup for your session, but if you decide to come ready-to-go, make sure your makeup is a perfect skin-tone match, and is done in a natural way.
Hair should be free of flyaways, styled away from your face, and should look like you normally look on your best day.
Be mindful of your undergarments.
Take care of facial hair (even women), eyebrows, and details that the camera WILL capture.
Preparation is key to having a successful session.
