A few months ago, I had an actor show up with a suitcase full of clothes—literally. She was stressed, second-guessing everything she’d brought, and feeling completely overwhelmed. Before we even took the first shot, we took ten minutes to talk through the options. I asked her what roles she usually gets called in for, what parts she actually wants to play, and what outfits made her feel most like herself. We narrowed it down to three solid looks. When we started shooting, her energy shifted. She went from anxious to grounded, and it showed in the photos. Those were the shots her agent ended up using—and they booked her work. The wardrobe didn’t just make her look good; it helped her feel like she belonged in the room.
One of the first things actors ask me before a shoot is: “What should I wear?” And I get it. Your headshot is your calling card. It’s often the first impression someone gets of you, and what you wear can either support that impression—or totally distract from it.
As a NYC headshot photographer, I’ve worked with actors at every stage—whether you’re updating one look for your reps or starting fresh to rebrand your entire casting. The wardrobe question always comes up, and it always matters. But here’s where I want to shift the focus: instead of thinking about what makes your eyes pop, think about what helps you feel present.
It’s Not About the Shirt, It’s About You
Look, people get hung up on “What color brings out my eyes?” or “Is this shirt too boring?” But let me offer something different: your eyes will pop if you’re actually present in the shot. Clothing is important, yes. But not because it’s flashy or dramatic—it’s important because it helps you get into a grounded, honest space. That’s what a great headshot captures.
What you wear should support your energy, not fight it. If you’re a little edgy, don’t throw on a blazer just because you think you’re supposed to. If you’re naturally warm and open, don’t try to play mysterious in a leather jacket. Trust your instincts, and bring clothes that feel like different facets of you—not costumes.
What Works Best On Camera
Solid colors are your friend. They photograph well and don’t pull attention away from your face. I usually steer people away from busy patterns, stripes, or anything with a logo. Texture, on the other hand, is great—denim, soft knits, ribbed fabric—those things can add interest without being distracting.
Also, think about color in terms of type. A softer color might lean more “girl next door” or “best friend,” while something bolder or darker can suggest confidence, strength, or complexity. None of this is exact—but it helps when you’re thinking about what you want each look to communicate.
Necklines and Layers
Yes, necklines matter. Scoop necks, v-necks, crew necks—they all give off slightly different vibes. If you’re not sure, bring a mix. V-necks tend to elongate and feel a little more open. Crew necks are more classic and conservative. Scoop necks can feel more relaxed or youthful.
Layers are gold. A denim jacket, button-down over a tee, an open blazer—all of that adds visual interest and can suggest a “type” without being heavy-handed. Plus, layers give us options. You can wear the same base shirt and just swap the top layer to shift the tone of the look.
Fit is Everything
Oversized clothes can swallow you up. Clothes that are too tight can make you self-conscious. Bring wardrobe that fits you well. Something you can move in, sit in, breathe in. If it tugs, rides up, or needs constant adjusting—it’ll throw you off during the shoot.
When we’re working together, I want you focused on being present—not on whether your shirt is bunching weird or your pants are pinching. Comfort and fit allow you to forget about the clothes and just show up.
Don’t Dress for the Job You Don’t Want
Some actors show up in a full-on lawyer or doctor look because they might go out for that role. My advice? Don’t try to pre-cast yourself. Bring pieces that suggest type without being literal. A blazer can nod to corporate or lawyer, sure—but if you’re forcing it, the photo will feel stiff.
I’d much rather capture you in something authentic and let your presence do the work. Trust that the photo isn’t the whole story—it’s the spark that gets someone to click your reel or call you in.
Bring More Than You Think You Need
Even for a quick session, bring more than you think. We might not use it all, but having options gives us flexibility. Sometimes a shirt doesn’t photograph the way you expected. Sometimes what you thought was “the one” ends up falling flat.
And hey, we’re in this together. I’m not just snapping the shutter—I’m watching how things read. I’ll give you honest feedback, help you narrow it down, and make sure we’re building looks that serve your goals.
A Word on Hair and Makeup
If you’re doing your own hair and makeup, aim for clean and natural. You want to look like yourself on a good day—not like you’re headed to a red carpet. Keep shine down, eyebrows groomed, and lips hydrated.
If you’re booking professional hair and makeup (and I offer that as an add-on), my artist will make sure everything reads well on camera without looking overdone. It’s not about glam—it’s about polish.
Final Tips
When I’m going through wardrobe with a client, I always remind them to trust their gut. There was one shoot where an actor almost didn’t bring this mustard yellow sweater because she thought it was “too weird.” But she lit up every time she mentioned it—so I told her to try it. It ended up being her strongest look. Sometimes the thing you’re second-guessing is the thing that makes you stand out.
Also, don’t underestimate how much a small prep step can save you during a shoot. I once had a client wear a brand-new shirt straight from the package—creases everywhere, and we lost time trying to smooth it. A quick steam or iron the night before can go a long way. With that being said, I have a steamer for touch ups, as I know clothes will get wrinkled during transporting.
- Avoid neon colors and anything that reflects light too strongly.
- Bring a lint roller. Especially with darker clothing. (I have one as well.)
- Skip the heavy jewelry. Unless it’s part of your casting, it usually distracts.
- Wear what makes you feel like you. If it boosts your confidence, it’s probably a yes.
Why This Matters
As a NYC headshot photographer, I’ve learned the difference between a photo that looks good and a photo that works. Casting directors aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for clarity. They want to see someone who knows who they are and who feels like a real person. Your clothes should help us get there, not get in the way.
And look—I’m not here to over-direct or over-style you. I’m here to collaborate. To create a session where you feel comfortable, supported, and confident in what you’re wearing and how you’re showing up.
Let’s Get to Work
If you’re ready to refresh your look—or get your first real headshots—I’d love to work with you. I shoot out of my home studio in Long Island City, and I keep the experience relaxed, efficient, and honest.
Reach out if you have questions, or head to the Actor Headshots page to learn more about how I shoot and what’s included.
