When it comes to acting headshots, what you wear matters just as much as lighting, posing, and expression. Your outfit helps define your “type,” supports the characters you’re right for, and ensures your personality shines through. As a St. Louis acting headshot photographer, I guide my clients through styling every day—and the right clothing can make all the difference. How to dress for acting headshots.
Not sure what to wear to your acting headshot session? Here are five essential tips to help you look natural, confident, and castable.
1. Keep It Simple and Let You Be the Focus
The biggest rule for acting headshots: your outfit should never distract from your face. Casting directors want to see your eyes, your personality, and your energy—not your clothing.
Stick to:
- solid colors
- clean, simple necklines
- minimal textures
Avoid:
- busy patterns
- flashy jewelry
- logos
- glitter or overly shiny fabrics
2. Choose Colors That Highlight Your Eyes and Skin Tone
Color plays a huge role in how your headshots look and feel. The best colors for acting headshots are:
- jewel tones
- earth tones
- soft neutrals
- rich blues, greens, or burgundies
These shades create depth and keep the focus on your eyes—one of the most important elements in a great acting headshot.
Avoid neon, bright orange, or pure white, as these can be harsh on camera.
3. Dress for the Roles You Want to Book
Your clothing should hint at your casting type without turning into a costume. Think of your outfit as a subtle suggestion—not a full character outfit.
Examples:
- Teacher / Nurse / Corporate: soft V-neck, simple cardigan, or clean button-down
- Edgy / Creative: darker tones, layered pieces, textured fabrics
- All‑American / Friendly: denim, casual layers, soft colors
- Professional roles: tailored tops, structured jackets
Your wardrobe should instantly communicate the vibe of the characters you’re right for.
4. Bring Multiple Options
For acting headshots, variety is key. I recommend bringing 4–6 tops in different styles and color palettes so we can mix and match based on lighting and background.
Bring a combination of:
- casual tops
- character‑driven options
- clean basics
- strong color pieces
The more choices you bring, the more looks we can create—giving you a versatile headshot portfolio that works across agencies, casting sites, and social media.
5. Comfort = Confidence
If an outfit feels stiff, itchy, or overly tight, it will show on camera. Choose pieces that allow you to breathe and move naturally. The more comfortable you feel, the more relaxed and connected your expressions will be—which is exactly what casting directors want to see.
Remember: your confidence is the most important part of your wardrobe.
Ready for Your Acting Headshots?
As a photographer with over 15 years of experience, I help St. Louis actors feel confident, prepared, and camera‑ready. Whether you’re updating your portfolio, signing with an agency, or launching your acting career, I’ll guide you through every step—including what to wear.
📸 Book your St. Louis acting headshot session with Shari Photography today.
How to dress for acting headshots
