Getting ready for a commercial headshot session? Let’s go! A great headshot is your first step in capturing the attention of casting directors and agents. But to nail that perfect shot, a little preparation goes a long way. Let’s break it down so you’re camera-ready and feeling confident.

1. Wardrobe: Flatter Your Skin Tone and Bring Out Your Eyes

First things first: What should you wear? A commercial headshot is all about showcasing your personality and making a connection with the viewer. You want colors that complement your skin tone and highlight your best features, especially your eyes.

• For fair skin tones: Cool tones like navy blue, emerald green, or lavender are your friends. They contrast nicely with lighter skin and help bring out your eyes without washing you out.
• For medium skin tones: Jewel tones such as ruby, sapphire, or amethyst look fantastic. These hues pop against your skin, making you look vibrant and alive.
• For darker skin tones: Bold colors like bright yellow, coral, or cobalt blue are striking choices. These shades contrast beautifully with deeper skin tones and draw attention to your face.

When it comes to patterns, less is more! Solid colors are typically the way to go because they keep the focus on you. If you do choose a pattern, make sure it’s subtle and not too distracting. Avoid logos, big text, or anything too trendy unless it’s specifically part of your brand. Sometimes adding a layer (denim jacket, sweater, vest, etc.) can calm down a busy pattern (or really bring together a look, pattern or no), so don’t discount adding a top layer if that idea speaks to you.

2. The Energy Factor: Smile Like You Mean It

Here’s the thing about commercial headshots—they’re all about energy. You need to convey warmth, approachability, and a sense of fun. Whether you’re auditioning for an upbeat ad or a product that makes people feel good, casting directors are looking for a shot that shows you as both relatable and full of personality.

So, how do you bring the energy? Think of something that makes you genuinely happy. If you can’t stop grinning when you think about your favorite pizza, a memorable vacation, or even a goofy pet, that’s the energy you want to channel into your headshot.

Remember, it’s not just about a smile—it’s about your eyes, your posture, and the vibe you project. Stay relaxed and natural, and let your excitement for the opportunity shine through. Make a positive connection with the lens and smile. Yes, a lot of times that means smiling with teeth, but that’s not an absolute rule. In my headshot sessions, we always strive for a large variety of facial expressions.

3. Hair and Makeup: Modern, Fresh, and You

Now, let’s talk about hair and makeup. You want to look polished, but still very much like yourself. Commercial headshots are about relatability, so keep things fresh and modern. That means avoid anything too dated, like heavy makeup or a hairstyle that feels stuck in the past.

• Hair: Keep it simple, but make sure it’s styled in a way that feels current and flattering. If you usually wear your hair in a certain way—whether it’s straight, curly, or somewhere in between—embrace that! Just make sure it’s clean, neat, and styled in a way that feels effortless but still polished.
• Makeup: The goal is to enhance your natural features without overdoing it. For women, a light foundation to even out skin tone, a little mascara to define the eyes, and a touch of blush to add warmth can go a long way. For men, a bit of concealer can help reduce shine or blemishes. Just remember, less is more. You want to look like the best version of yourself, not a different person! If you need help with hair an makeup, there are Makeup Artist (MUA) referrals on my FAQ page.

4. Show Off Your Unique Personality

In today’s commercial acting industry, individuality is key. Casting directors are always looking for fresh, authentic faces that stand out in a sea of generic. So, don’t be afraid to let your true personality shine through. If you have a quirky style, a signature smile, or a fun accessory you love, make it part of the shoot! Your personality is one of your greatest assets, so let it come through in your headshots.

5. Relax, Have Fun, and Be Yourself

Finally, remember that headshot sessions are supposed to be fun! The more relaxed and confident you are, the better your photos will turn out. So, take a deep breath, think of something that makes you laugh, and just be yourself. Casting directors want to see the real you—and that’s exactly who you want to showcase.

By following these simple tips, you’ll be prepared to rock your commercial headshot session and step confidently into your next big opportunity. Now, go ahead and let your personality, your style, and your energy shine through the lens!