what to wear for acting headshots

The Ultimate Wardrobe Guide for actor headshots.

Hey, actor! Congrats on booking your headshot session! Selecting the right outfits for your acting headshots is incredibly important and can make or break your headshots’ ability to work.

Your headshots need to instantly communicate to casting directors your types, your look, and your professionalism as an actor. Without excellent headshots and an instant, clear communication with your images, casting directors are likely to pass on you instead of offer you an opportunity to audition for the role.

Let’s go over everything you need to know about what to wear (and what not to wear) for your acting headshot session so that your images are effective.

And hi there! I’m Eldeen Annette - the…

Orlando-based acting headshot photographer

for actors who are pursuing film and commercial roles.

I’ve been shooting headshots for 20+ years, and have learned a lot about what clothing looks great on camera, and how to choose the right outfits for acting headshots.

I also partner with several coaches and agencies in the central Florida area who know exactly what type of clothing and headshots will open up doors for actors and get them more opportunities. Their expertise is incredibly valuable as people who have been in this industry their whole lives!

 

When it comes to headshots, most actors think about wardrobe with the wrong intention.

They may be mostly worried looking beautiful / handsome / like a model - instead of what clothing choices will help you get auditions.

We want to make it easier for casting directors to immediately be able to imagine you as the character they have in the script.

But before you get going with your outfits ideas, you’ll need to figure out your marketing looks / types. Remember - headshots are a marketing tool - not just pretty pictures of you. You are communicating a character. So, to make the wardrobe process easier for you, let’s first get a better idea of your marketing looks.

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Your headshots should represent your types clearly and immediately, so casting directors can envision you in the role.

How to Figure out Your Types

For acting headshots to work, so agents don’t ask for a re-shoot to be able to market you, we need to accomplish a few important things with your headshots. 

  1. Your images need to cause casting directors stop when they come to your headshot.

  2. Your headshots need to clearly - and immediately - communicate your type and abilities as an actor.

  3. Your headshots need to accurately represent your look.

Knowing your type doesn’t just have to do with your personality.

Your age range, appearance, and acting style also play a huge role on what types you can play (and it’s important to note that types can change during your career!).

According to Backstage:

You may have heard about actors “playing against type” or being “typecast,” and gotten the impression that having a type is limiting. But having a type (and embracing it) isn’t a bad thing—in fact, knowing your type can help you identify the kinds of roles you’re likely to nail, which will improve your audition chances.

An actor’s type is a combination of five criteria that can be found on most character breakdowns:

  • Gender

  • Age range

  • Physicality (short, tall, thin, heavy, light, dark)

  • Job title (mom, lawyer, cop, spy, teen, criminal)

  • Personality traits (quirky, serious, intellectual, sexy, loud, innocent)

Acting is a business, and when you walk into an audition, you are selling a product: Yourself. You need to know how to clearly package the product so that prospective buyers (casting directors) will know that it’s right for their project. For actors, this means having a realistic understanding of what you can offer, including your physical characteristics like height and weight, plus the way your voice sounds, and any special skills you have in addition to acting.

Rules for headshot clothing:

Keep these rules in mind, no matter what your age or type.

Sometimes an outfit that might look great in person won’t work for the camera. Please read through these simple rules and warnings so that your shopping trip is successful!

General rules:

  • Clothing should fit you well, but not be too tight.

  • Keep your outfits to one or two layers only.

  • When in doubt, choose solid colors

  • Accessories like necklaces, headscarves, hats, and earrings are ok (even encouraged for specifics types!) as long as they are pretty subtle and will add to the type, not distract.

  • Consider necklines - lower necklines (but not too low :) nearly always look better.

  • Most likely, we will not need you to bring full outfits. A great set of jeans and a bunch of tops should normally be just fine! As well as your dresses, of course, ladies :)

Things to avoid, if possible:

  • Ribbed clothing (like you often find in tank tops). The tiny textures confuse the camera lens

  • Silk, velvet. They look beautiful in person, but don’t work with the studio lighting

  • Loud jewelry

  • Baggy, boxy, and oversized clothing

  • Pale colors (they wash out in camera)

  • Turtle-necks

  • Cheap fabrics (unless the look calls for it, such as “troubled” or “addict”)

  • Extremely bright colors, like chartreuse green or hot orange

  • Clothing that is too revealing

  • Clothing that wrinkles easily

  • Clothing that pulls or tugs when you move or stretch (but the clothing should still fit you well! Just make sure things aren’t too tight)

what not to wear for actor headshots

Extremely Bright / Neon Colors:

As fun as they may seem, really bright colors like chartreuse, bright hot pink, or neon orange do not photograph well. The colors feel overexposed in camera, don’t flatter skin tones of any kind, and always distract from your expression.

This image is completely un-edited, straight out of camera.

Fabrics matter!

Silk, velvet, and other reflective fabrics may seem like a beautiful choice for high-end looks, but these types of fabric don’t play well with the lighting.

Moire effect:

The camera lens (and computer screens) get confused by tiny textures, especially when they are tone-on-tone, like this ribbed T-shirt. Those squiggly lines are difficult to manage. Try to avoid ribbed clothing if possible.

Quick Tip: you should also get outfit inspiration from the types of TV shows, films, and commercials you hope to land roles in. What are the characters wearing? How is their hair styled? If you still need more ideas after reading through this guide, head to the screen, wear what they are wearing, and you will have success dressing for your types.

Your general types are very important to know - and represent - in your headshots

…Especially in Florida, where casting directors normally prefer a ‘hint’ of the type.

Having your general types photographed also allows your headshots to be versatile and timeless. However, in addition to making sure you have general types represented, it can also be beneficial to be more specific!

Often, we like to add a specific element to your general type outfits so that if an audition comes up where that specificity would help, you have that in your back pocket. For instance, if your general type is Hip Grandma, we can add something as simple as glasses to create a specific Librarian look. If you are a Bad Boy / Villain, we may take a set of shots in your general outfit, and then toss on a black studded choker for girls or a chain to sell the specific type of Emo / Goth.

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Let’s get started!

Consider your personality, look, and acting abilities to help you narrow down what looks will be most effective for you. Try to choose 2-4 types that you resonate with and want to be marketed for. I always recommend bringing 2-3 choices per look - sometimes we can find that clothing that looks great in person doesn’t translate well on camera.

I have put together several popular general types and more specific types with some examples (and why they work!)

Click on your age range to jump ahead:

Children And Tweens

Types and Outfit Ideas for Children & Tweens

Commercial / Friendly Types

  • Disney Show

  • Best Friend / Sidekick

  • Happy Family Kid

Edgy Type

  • Bully

  • Cool, Hip Kid

Young Student / Neutral

  • Studious / Teacher’s Pet

For the commercial, friendly types, think bright, happy colors, layers, sweet things, laughter, joy and sunshine.

  • Denim works great (overalls or vests only).

  • Kids and tweens can wear patterns for this look! Look for sweet flowers, stripes, polka dots, and simple textures (but try to avoid really large patterns or loud patterns that might detract from your child’s expression).

For the edgy types, think deeper, rich colors, layers, textures. What would that kid be wearing on a TV show?

  • Denim works great (overalls or vests only).

  • A sharp-looking sweater for a hip kid or henley read well, and for the bully - go for a solid T-shirt with a hoodie, or something gray or deep green or blue.

And for the young student type, keep it clean.

  • I love to see glasses (we have some here with the lenses popped out)

  • Button-up shirts, a bow-tie or regular tie, and clothing a young nerdy kid may wear.

  • This outfits can also be more neutral to fit a standard student-in-the-classroom.

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    Disney

    The cute bow and denim vest makes this a winning image for Disney Kid! We want your child to seem as young as possible for this look. A bright-colored undershirt, or denim overalls would also be great choices.

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    Neutral / Best Friend / Student

    The red and blue colors translate well because they aren’t too overpowering and bring the attention right back up to his smile and eyes.

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    Lead / Disney / Personality

    This is a great example of how young and fresh some patterns can feel. With the ruffles and color tones, this dress feels spunky. This role would likely be the lead with a big personality.

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    Happy Family Kid / Innocent

    This second look by our cute, young actress helps her look innocent and sweet because of the floral element. Just try to keep the flower patterns minimal.

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    Tough Kid on the Playground

    The layer is simple, but effective for that tough kid on the playground. Even though his colors are neutral, you can add a brighter color to a hoodie for another great effect.

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    Edgy Athlete / Bully

    Simple henley in a darker color is very versatile. The simplicity of the shirt keeps our focus on his face, while the colors tell us that he might be a bully, or a tough-kid baseball player! Color is incredibly important to consider for kid headshots.

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    Teacher's Pet / Comedic

    When you have a shirt buttoned all the way up, the effect is perfect for the nerd or teacher’s pet. I love the touch of color on his shirt to keep him looking young!

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    Neutral Commercial

    When in doubt, opt for a simple, solid color - 1 layer. This is always a great choice for child actors. Choose a color that is young and bold. This is the most versatile look for children.

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    Consider Eye Color

    When a child has lighter eyes, it’s always a good choice to try and match the color with one of the outfits.

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    Denim Overalls

    This is one of the most requested looks from agencies for commercial work in Florida. If your child is under 15, consider denim overalls with a neutral, or even patterned stop.

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    Fun Colors for Littles

    If your child is under 6, you can GO for it with color. Agencies love for really young actors and models to look bright and fun.

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    Dresses

    Younger children who are girls should consider little dresses that are either solid colored, or have a sweet, simple pattern. Bold colors are a must!

Late Teens & Early Twenties

Types and Outfit Ideas for Teens and Early Twenties

General, Common Types For Late Teens & Early Twenties

Girl/Guy Next Door (wholesome, trustworthy, and approachable. Friendly and crushable, someone you’d feel comfortable confiding in.)

Bad boy / Villain (should have an air of mystery about the character, as though beneath the tough exterior lurks a bruised but resilient person. think: leather jacket, greased hair, tattered jeans, a la “Cry Baby”-era Johnny Depp.)

Geek (there are male and female versions of the geek or nerd, but no matter the gender, this character is bright, bookish, and socially awkward.)

Jock / Athlete (lovable bro with no interest in school, or an aggressive meathead who bullies the geeks.)

Comedic (the comedic relief, who nearly everything they say is designed to make the audience laugh. Often a side-kick)

Dramatic Actor (serious, dramatic roles, often with a strong focus on emotional depth.)

Hero / Action Hero (action-packed roles, often performing stunts and physical feats. Normally attractive and athletic)

Leading Lady / Leading Man (charming, beautiful or handsome, and charismatic.)

Specific Friendly Types

  • Disney Kid

  • Jock / Athletic

  • Hipster

  • Gamer

  • Lovable Loser

  • Love Interest

  • Fashionista

  • Best Friend / Sidekick

  • Boho

  • Period (50s, 1800s)

  • Comic Relief

Specific Edgy Types

  • Hero/Heroine

  • Villain

  • Emo/Goth

  • Troubled Teen / Bully

  • Cool, Hip Kid

  • Stoner / Surfer

Specific Young Professional Types

  • Student / Grad Student

  • Geeky Tech

  • Intern / Assistant

  • Helpful Employee / Customer Service

  • Creative Professional

  • Teacher’s Pet

For the commercial, friendly types-

  • Denim, happy colors, still keeping things young and fresh.

  • Keep patterns to a minimum, with the exception of “lovable loser” or “boho” where a pattern really sells the look.

For the edgy types, choose dark colors.

  • Layers are great for these looks, or a simple black top.

  • A sharp-looking sweater for a hip kid or henley read well. For the stoner, you can choose a graphic T under a button-up shirt (a rare exception regarding graphics).

  • A tank top (if you are VERY comfortable with your arms) works here in a neutral color.

And for the young professional type, think quirky.

  • Polka dots and sweaters are cute, young, and fun for student or intern

  • Customer service can be as simple as a blue button-up

  • Opt for bold colors and patterns for creative professional - add a blazer if you’re in your twenties to grow up the look if needed.

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    Bad Girl

    The color choices make this look more theatrical and appropriate for a troubled teen. Colors make a huge impact on how your look will read.

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    Innocent / Best Friend

    Light green is beautiful and youthful and often helps eyes really shine, no matter what color they are! She looks sweet and innocent. Just avoid pastels that are TOO light - they wash out on camera.

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    Fashionista

    Normally loud patterns destract from a headshot, but once in a while, it can help a fashionista, bohemian type or bright personality! I recommend only bringing a strong pattern if it’s your 2nd or 3rd look.

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    Guy Next Door

    When paired with lighter colors (like the white T-shirt), plaid is a friendly pattern and well-received for nearly all commercial types.

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    Troubled Teen or Athlete

    Teens might need a tough look, even when they’re young, fresh, and beautiful. In her case, we opted for army green and a serious expression. Tank Tops can also work well for athletic types.

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    Rebellious Teen / Emo

    Gray tones and black tones will nearly always read well for a versatile “troubled teen” look. I like that the hoodie isn’t too thick!

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    Sweet Period Piece

    Younger actors can still play period roles. Find an outfit that represents 50s, 1800s, etc., if you resonate with period shows (like Bridgerton!)

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    Gamer

    A graphic T and hoodie are the perfect combo to sell tech geek or gamer for a young man! Black or gray hoodie a must.

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    Commercial - Next Door

    A great look for Florida commercials is light, airy stripes. If you want to avoid plaid, this look will read friendly, youthful, and commercial (and beachy!)

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    Henley

    A darker henley will offer a more leading man type if you need to appear older than a teen. Choose a lighter color for teen athlete.

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    Military - Specific Type

    This specific look is made complete with slicked-back hair and a true Army uniform.

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    Military - General Type

    If you want something more versatile for a military type, a simple fitted T in the right color will do the trick beautifully!

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    Girl Next Door

    Mustard yellow is a great choice for medium to dark skin tones, and looks powerful and vibrant for commercial headshots. Color makes a world of difference to a look.

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    Neutral Commercial

    At this age, denim is still a great choice! Pick a shirt underneath that flatters your skin tone and eye color. This is a very versatile look.

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    Leading Lady

    Off the shoulder, neutral color. Perfect for a leading lady character. Keep it modest.

Mid Twenties to Early Thirties

Types & Outfit Ideas for Mid-Twenties to Early Thirties

General, Common Types for mid twenties to early thirties

Girl/Guy Next Door (wholesome, trustworthy, and approachable. Friendly and crushable, someone you’d feel comfortable confiding in.)

Queen bee / ball-busting CEO (powerful, sexy executive who “has it all” but still wants more.)

Bad boy / Villain (should have an air of mystery about the character, as though beneath the tough exterior lurks a bruised but resilient person. think: leather jacket, greased hair, tattered jeans, a la “Cry Baby”-era Johnny Depp.)

Geek (there are male and female versions of the geek or nerd, but no matter the gender, this character is bright, bookish, and socially awkward.)

Jock / Athlete (lovable bro with no interest in school, or an aggressive meathead who bullies the geeks.)

Comedic (the comedic relief, who nearly everything they say is designed to make the audience laugh. Often a side-kick)

Dramatic Actor (serious, dramatic roles, often with a strong focus on emotional depth.)

Hero / Action Hero (action-packed roles, often performing stunts and physical feats. Normally attractive and athletic)

Leading Lady / Leading Man (charming, beautiful or handsome, and charismatic.)

Girl/Guy Next Door

  • Outdoorsy

  • Jock / Athletic

  • Hipster

  • Gamer (graphic T is ok for this look!)

  • Stoner / Surfer

  • Lovable Loser

  • Love Interest

  • Comic Relief / Sit Com

  • Youth Pastor

  • Fashionista

  • Best Friend / Sidekick

  • Western

  • Period Look - 50s, 1800s


Edgy

  • Hero/Heroine

  • Anti-Hero/Heroine

  • Villain

  • Street Smart

  • Military

  • Drug Addict

  • Biker

  • Urban Hip

Young Mom/Young Dad

  • Blue Collar

  • Country Club

  • Suburban

  • BBQ

  • Bohemian/Yoga Instructor


Young Professional

  • Grad Student

  • Intern

  • Office Guy

  • Secretary

  • Creative Professional

  • Geeky Tech

  • Lawyer

  • FBI/CIA Agent

  • Doctor

  • Journalist

  • Nurse

  • Security

  • Detective/Crop

  • Waitress/Barista

  • Musician / Band Member

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    Leady Lady

    What makes this look work: lower neck line, rich color, and tight-fitting. The idea is to look a bit sexy and captivating for strong leading lady.

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    Guy Next Door / Beach Dude

    I like that his shirt isn’t plaid for this look, but something that might be seen on a beach. He looks super friendly with the color choices and pattern.

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    Customer Service

    We did a set with and without the apron. Blue button-up is great for commercial looks! If there is a role behind a counter, this would be the perfect headshot with a strong nod to the type so casting directors can envision her in the role.

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    Guy Next Door - Surfer

    If you need to play a younger-vibes character (think: Outer Banks), a torn-up denim jacket works perfectly. Surfer, hip, cool, care-free types.

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    Edgy

    Black leather with practically any color underneath will accomplish an effective look for lots of edgy characters. Street-smart, biker, villain, etc. Can also work for edgy detective.

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    Street Smart

    This guy has a tough back story! Choose black, muted colors, and “affordable” fabrics for a street-smart men’s look.

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    Comedic / Nerd

    What I love about a “grandpa” sweater is how many looks you can get from it. This look is clearly a comedic look with the glasses (which we have here). If he removed the glasses, it could be professor, grad student, or funny dad.

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    Young BBQ Mom

    Plaid most often reads as down-to-earth. Not typically a sexy character (like you may need for leading woman), this look could also work for western shows. Excellent for commercial auditions.

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    Leading Man

    One of the most effective, modern outfits for leading man is a simple, well-fitting henley in nearly any color. Adjust the color to something more warm and friendly if you want to keep the look more commercial or light-hearted.

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    Commercial / Neutral

    A simple T-shirt is always, ALWAYS a good choice for both men and women in the commerical and film markets. Adjust the color to adjust the look. Very versatile, and I always recommend this useful outfit. Just make sure it’s newer and without wrinkles!

Mid Thirties to Fourties

Types & Outfit Ideas for Late Thirties to Fourties

General, Common Types for late thirties to fourties

BBQ Dad / Suburban Mom (wholesome, trustworthy, and approachable.)

Queen bee / ball-busting CEO (powerful, sexy executive who “has it all” but still wants more.)

Bad boy / Villain (should have an air of mystery about the character, as though beneath the tough exterior lurks a bruised but resilient person. think: leather jacket, greased hair, tattered jeans, a la “Cry Baby”-era Johnny Depp.)

Geek (there are male and female versions of the geek or nerd, but no matter the gender, this character is bright, bookish, and socially awkward.)

Comedic (the comedic relief, who nearly everything they say is designed to make the audience laugh. Often a side-kick)

Dramatic Actor (serious, dramatic roles, often with a strong focus on emotional depth.)

Hero / Action Hero (action-packed roles, often performing stunts and physical feats. Normally attractive, charismatic and athletic)

Character Actors: (with years of experience, 40-year-old actors can excel in character roles, bringing nuance and complexity to their performances)

Leading Ladies and Leading Men: (a sense of authority, confidence, and experience. Usually attractive - think Brad Pitt & Angelina Jolie in Mr. & Mrs. Smith.)

Girl/Guy Next Door

  • Outdoorsy

  • Jock / Athletic

  • Hipster

  • Gamer (graphic T is ok for this look!)

  • Stoner / Surfer

  • Lovable Loser

  • Love Interest

  • Comic Relief / Sit Com

  • Youth Pastor

  • Best Friend / Sidekick

  • Western

  • Period Look - 50s, 1800s


Edgy

  • Hero/Heroine

  • Villain

  • Street Smart

  • Military

  • Drug Addict

  • Biker

  • Urban Hip

Mom/Young Dad

  • Blue Collar

  • Country Club

  • Suburban Mom

  • BBQ Dad

  • Bohemian/Yoga Instructor


Professional

  • Intern

  • Office Guy

  • Secretary

  • Creative Professional

  • Geeky Tech

  • Lawyer

  • FBI/CIA Agent

  • Doctor

  • Journalist

  • Nurse

  • Security

  • Detective/Crop

  • Waitress/Barista

  • Musician / Band Member

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    Neutral Film or TV

    Olive green is a wonderful choice for most skin tones. The off-the-shoulder look helps her look on the younger side in case she wants to play a leading lady role. Very versatile look!

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    Artist

    This specific look is colorful and very effective for a creative type! This look would also work well for comedic roles.

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    Lawyer / Director

    Add a dark-toned shirt under a black blazer for a CEO / lawyer / FBI director type. Avoid light colors or patterns for this look.

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    Professional with Personality

    Another professional look - this outfit reads well for types like Professor, Lawyer, or even charismatic drama (think: The Mentalist with Simon Baker).

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    Bouncer / Mob Boss

    Unbuttoned, gray undershirt with a fitted blazer make this look work for a higher-up street-smart look. This look is simple enough to represent several edgy types!

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    Period Look - Modern Take on 1800s

    A modern take on a period look is a nice way to feel relevant. The ruffles and cream color beautifully offer a nod to the 1800s.

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    Period Look - Classic 1800s

    Normally we try to avoid pastel tones, but this period lace in lavender made for a sweet, touching 1800s look. Socialite from times past!

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    Therapist / Doctor

    A sweater is a great look for a casual professional type. Therapist, professor, doctor all resonate with a fancy-style sweater.

  • Comedic

    Bold stripes have a loud presence, just like this character will! Likely to be the comic relief of the show, but it’s still a nice, versatile look. Could also be guy-next-door or best friend.

Fifties & Above

Types & Outfit Ideas for Fifties and Above

General, Common Types for Fifties and Above

Grandpa or Grandma / Next Door (wholesome, trustworthy, and approachable.)

Queen bee / ball-busting CEO (powerful executive who “has it all” but still wants more.)

Villain (should have an air of mystery about the character, tough exterior, often sinister motivations)

Military General (powerful and in charge. Often lacks mercy)

FBI/CIA Director or Agent (in-charge, can be serious dramatic or professionally warm)

Comedic (the comedic relief, who nearly everything they say is designed to make the audience laugh. Often a side-kick)

Dramatic Actor (serious, dramatic roles, often with a strong focus on emotional depth.)

Everyday People: (older actors can play everyday people, such as neighbors, coworkers, or community members, adding realism and relatability to the story.)

Grandmother/Grandfather/Next Door

  • Wealthy / Country Club

  • Neighbor

  • Grandma/Grandpa

  • Farmer

  • Outdoorsy Fit

  • Western

  • Period Look - 50s, 1800s

  • Historical Figure (politicians, celebrities, or notable personalities)


Edgy

  • Hero/Heroine

  • Anti-Hero/Heroine

  • Villain

  • Victim

  • Military General

  • Mafia Boss

Professional

  • Secretary

  • Judge

  • CEO

  • Office Guy

  • Lawyer

  • FBI Director

  • Doctor

  • Professor

  • Scientist

  • Detective

  • News Anchor

  • Therapist

  • Wise Mentors

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    Country Club / Wealth

    I love how clearly the white fur collar and modern neckline communicate wealth and possibly sinister or untrustworthy intentions.

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    FBI Director

    The loose tie and color scheme really sell the “tired FBI Director” feel that is so common to TV dramas. Avoid blue, as it feels too common, and stick with black and white with a simple tie.

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    Grandma

    Once in a while, I recommend a bit of jewelry if it will help you sell a specific type. We kept her outfit pretty simple, and the necklace sells it!

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    Bouncer / Dramatic

    Dramatic actors should stick with darker colors and keep it clean and simple! Black on black is a tough, edgy look.

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    Head Chef / Professional

    Very specific, and very powerful. It’s ok to use specific clothing for types as long as they aren’t your main headshots.

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    007 / Lead Role for Film

    A tuxedo is powerful, specific, and showcases a very specific type. This man is capable, and likely the main character in a film.

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    Villain

    Simple black works wonders for villain. Always a good choice for dramatic actors.

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    Comedic

    The time to wear a loud print is when your type is comedic and fun. This look, combined with a spunky hair style and expression, will tell a full story about this going-to-be-loved character. Description goes here

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    Gang / Biker

    In the 50s, this is a very common type for TV and sometimes film. Simply use leather, black, and a graphic T (not too specific) to sell the look.

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    Homestead / Farmer

    Denim is the way to go to represent a slightly more serious look for older actors. She looks like she’s down to earth and knows how to farm!

  • CEO / Wealth / Mafia Boss

    A pocket handkerchief goes a LONG way for communicating these types. It’s a detail you shouldn’t overlook for wealthy CEO types.

Examples of Looks in One Session

Examples of Different Looks with the Same Actor.

These images are taken within one session! With some simple styling changes of hair (and facial hair!), clothing, and accessories, we can have a very effective headshot session that will set you up for many different audition types.

  • Farmer / Hallmark

    Adding the overalls and simple necklace create a specific type of sweet country bumpkin, Hallmark movie, or even young farmer!

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    Country Club

    A simple golf shirt in a friendly color is all you need for this look! Add a sweater tied around the neck for a wealthy country club look.

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    Period

    Lace, light flowers, and elegance, combined with a simple up-do make this look perfect for shows like Bridgerton.

  • Leading Lady

    This neckline works because it’snot considered a full turtle-neck, and still looks modern. The color tone woks perfectly with her skin tone and helps us keep our focus on her expression.

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    Neutral / General Type

    Beautiful Country Club Woman. Wealth, Vixen.

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    General Type: Western / Farmer

    This is an approachable look with the plaid and denim. She could go for Yellowstone types or Hallmark types with a warmer expression.

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    FBI Director / Lawyer

    She often plays lawyers and goes for FBI / CIA director roles. The black and white colors are important for keeping the dramatic feel.

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    Creative Professional

    By contrast, with the same exact blazer but a different blouse, we create a completely different look. She is a creative professional, maybe an interior designer or quirky artist.

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    Neutral / Commercial

    Plaid by itself is the fastest way to communicate friendliness and approachability. He didn’t want to appear too young, so we opted not to have a T-shirt underneath. This neutral look will go a long way and be usable for many different roles.

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    Villain / Cop

    A deep brown leather jacket is a street-smart type of character, whether as a villain or modern detective.

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    Specific Type: Doctor

    Scrubs or a white doctor’s coat is all you need to get a specific look for this role. You could add the stethoscope, but it’s not needed to sell this role type and my distract.

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    FBI Director

    Simple, loose tie, black and white. He’s had a long day.

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    Athlete

    A tank top is the easiest way to communicate an athletic type. Try a color that blends nicely with your skin tone so that the focus goes right o your face, however, avoid pale or pastel colors if possible. If you have pale skin, opt for sage green.

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    Young Adult

    Patterns should be used on purpose only for acting headshots. This vibrant pattern is good for leading lady type roles.

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    Leading Lady

    This powerful neckline and color black represent a powerfu character. This look would work for types like, leading lady, boss lady, wealth, or fashionista.

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    Fashionista or Best Friend

    Pink is great for deeper skin tones, but just make sure it’s not too neon or bright! It’s bold and friendly and good for a commercial appeal as well.

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    Comedic / Nerd

    The sweater, expression, glasses, and lighting all tell a story of a character that is likely going to make the audience laugh. He could also go for nerd, or even quirky scientist.

  • Bouncer

    Don’t mess with this guy! His jacket also indicates he could play a wealthy casino owner (with a slightly different expression), or any number of underground characters with a bit of class.

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    Neutral / Commercial

    Blue is the friendliest color you can wear for headshots. A simple T (we love V-necks especially!) keeps him approachable and friendly.

  • Thug / Street Smart

    A black or gray tank is all you need to sell the street-smart or thug type.

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    Neutral / Commercial

    Denim and simple colors make this outfit very versatile. We also captured full smiles for a more commercial appeal.

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    Commercial

    This is a full BBQ / Commercial look. Plaid is always a great choice for appearing friendly.

  • Villain

    Normally I don’t recommend turtle-neck sweaters, but in this case, we were going for a clear villain look. Turtle-necks feel closed off and un-trustworthy.

  • Comedic / Nerd

    Bold color, stripes, and glasses. Unmistakably comedic and probably a beloved character that provides comic relief.

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    Commercial

    In Florida, it’s always a great idea to pick a commercial outfit that feels like a vacation. Linens, bold colors (not too bright), and casual necklines are great choices.

  • Villain

    Street-smart, villain, or other edgy characters. A simple white tank with black shirt is perfect

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    Leading Man

    The neutral tone, fitted look makes for a great leading man look.

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    Professor or Grad Student

    This type of pattern on a blazer tells a great story. Choose your colors and patterns intentionally.