Before the Session 📷
For most headshots and unless we're going for a 3/4 or body shot I rarely see below the belt. So one pant and/or skirt option should do it.
Avoid clothing that has busy patterns/stripes with lots of contrast unless it has a layer over it.
Avoid white, beige, and pastels unless you're certain they'll work for you. Sometimes, they don't work unless they are under a layer.
Super bright colors can sometimes be too much also.
Rich, jewel tones photograph the best.
Take pictures of yourself in your outfits.
When in doubt bring more!
When you choose your wardrobe think about your casting. Be specific. Don't be afraid of something unique.
Look at all the clothes that you are bringing and make sure everything is not the same color blue.
Always bring your favorite item of clothing (shirt, dress, jacket). We may not photograph it, but you never know!
Only subtle or casting-specific jewelry. Remember, it's about you, not your watch/new necklace. After you know the types of looks you need, treat them as if you’d be preparing a monologue. Make sure your clothes are clean, appropriate to the characters you want to play, pressed or ironed, and ready to shoot.
Corporate/Professional look: Suits, jackets, dress shirts. Men: don't forget ties.
Commercial look: Sporty short-sleeved shirts, light colors, layers (T-shirts), sweaters. Think warm and approachable.
Theatrical look: Darker/richer colors emphasize the face.
Pick clothes that emphasize the types of roles you're going for. Be creative. Be specific. Do some research!
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A commercial agent in Los Angeles I know gives this out to all their clients that are looking for headshots and checks off about
3-4 types to shoot for.
Professional (business type)
Smiling, Nice, Nurturing, Loving (Mom/Dad or Casual type)
Blue Collar (ex: teachers, maids, mechanics, etc.)
Glamour, Sexy, Handsome, a GQ or Vanity Fair Look
Edgy, Gen-X, Exotic
Nerd or Geek
Slacker, Bum, Rural, and Up all night type looks
Funny, Witty, Comedy, Quirky
Kid/Mid Teen/Young - The high-schooler, Disney
Any Uniform characters like Cop, Military, boy scout, Religious, Etc.
Athletic / Sporty
Body Oddie Oddie / Physique (only if you are comfortable showing it)
Note: For a theatrical shot, I like a little less specific, but it is still a good idea to have a clear idea of what shows you are looking to market yourself towards. If you want to get on a cop show, hinting at a "street" look may be helpful, etc.