Photoshoot Prep for Actors – Seattle Actor Photos

Date

February 8, 2025

Author

David

Welcome to Seattle Actor Photos

This article is for actors who have booked a headshot session. If you have not scheduled headshots yet, there is still great information here that might interest you. Either way, read on. And, as always if you have questions or concerns before coming in for your headshot session at Seattle Actor Photos, feel free to text or a call me: 206-769-5786.

Wardrobe & Styling

If you’re an on-camera actor, you’ll typically need three types of headshots: Commercial, Theatrical, and Character. In the Seattle entertainment market, having a commercial and a theatrical headshot is essential and considered an Industry Standard. If you tend to work more on the stage, a theatrical headshot is what you want, but that does not mean that it needs to be dramatic or serious (though classic black is always striking for a wardrobe choice), and many actors who work exclusively on the stage have a few headshot looks.

To quickly break it down:

Commercial headshots: Bright, bold colors work best.
Theatrical headshots: Jewel tones and forest colors create a strong, dramatic look.
Character looks: Wardrobe choices can reflect specific roles, such as corporate professionals, young professionals, high school students, or even outfits that highlight tattoos.

And, of course, not matter what you decide to wear, make sure you love how you look in it (more on that below).

Let’s dig deeper into about what clothes to choose for your headshot session. In a headshot, wardrobe plays a huge role in how you’re perceived and cast. So choose outfits that flatter you, make you feel comfortable & confident, and align with the types of roles you’re pursuing. And if you have an agent, be sure to check in with them for guidance on styling before your session. Since most headshots are framed from the head to mid-chest, focus on your top layers when planning your looks. Try them on, snap a quick photo, and assess how the style, neckline, and color complement you. Choose shades that enhance your eyes and flatter your complexion, avoiding overly busy patterns unless you’re aiming for that quirky character vibe. And if you’re also getting a ¾ or full-body shot, make sure your entire outfit—from head to toe—works together seamlessly.

When choosing accessories for your headshot, aim for pieces that enhance your look without pulling focus from your face. If you wear glasses daily, bring a pair with anti-glare lenses (if possible) to avoid reflections. Earrings should be simple and flattering, while oversized or overly shiny pieces can be distracting. Necklaces should complement your neckline without overwhelming the frame, and scarves, if desired, can add a touch of personality. The goal is to add subtle interest while keeping the focus on your eyes and expression, and accessorizing is by no means necessary for a great headshot.

Color ideas are below, and we think choosing a color is great for commercial headshots, but we don’t want those colors to be too pale or washed out. In the colors to avoid section, those colors could work if they were more saturated and not quite so pale. And, I can always “pop the color” with a colorful backdrop if you go for a more subdued wardrobe top.

The Layered Look

Adding a wardrobe layer to your headshot can instantly help convey the types of roles you’re best suited for. If you want to project authority—think executives, politicians, or FBI agents—a structured blazer over a crisp button-up shirt (with or without a tie) reinforces that polished, professional image. For a more approachable, everyday look, a denim jacket over a simple tee suggests confidence and versatility. A leather jacket can add an edge, hinting at toughness or rebellious characters. An unbuttoned flannel over a t-shirt gives off a relaxed, blue-collar vibe, great for roles like teachers, musicians, or working-class characters. Choosing the right layers helps your headshot subtly tell a story before you even say a word.

Check yo' Flex!

Is that what the cool kids might say?

Final reminder: Before coming in, try on your looks, and check the mirror. Maybe take a photo. Make sure you love how things are coming together. Most of my work focuses on the head-and-shoulders portrait, but if you need a head-to-toe full-body shot, make sure at least one of your looks is styled accordingly. And, while I do have a wardrobe steamer at the studio, please press and lint roll your clothes before coming in.

My Location

Seattle Actor Photos is located in the Georgetown area of Seattle at Orcas Business Park. We are close to very I-5, and have free parking available on both sides of our building, and there is also street parking. We suggest parking in the lot that is just to the west of our building and between our building and the Georgetown Post office. If you use GPS to find us, which you probably will, you might end up on the east side of our building. If you see the SANCA building, you are on the wrong side if you want easy access to the building’s front door. Speaking of, the front door will be locked and under PIN code, so text me when you arrive and I will come down and let you in. If you already have the code, you know what to do – punch it in, then grab the handle.

Final Thoughts

If all this feels a bit overwhelming, don’t worry—you can always check in with me! And remember, you might already have great instincts about headshot styling and marketing, so trust yourself. At a minimum, you’ll likely need one upbeat, smiling look and another more serious one. But depending on your goals, capturing a bit of range in your headshot session could be beneficial. Take your time planning your wardrobe, making sure each outfit aligns with the image you want to project. And, as a final reminder, if you have a talent agent or manager, be sure to check in with them beforehand—they may have valuable input to guide your choices.