You’ve booked your headshot session, you’ve practiced your poses—but now comes the question every actor asks: What should I wear?
Choosing the right wardrobe for your acting portfolio shoot isn’t about fashion—it’s about strategy. Your clothes should enhance your look, highlight your casting type, and make you camera-ready with confidence.
Here’s everything you need to know before stepping in front of the lens.
The Role of Wardrobe in a Headshot or Portfolio Session
When casting directors flip through submissions, they’re looking for people who fit the part. Your clothing plays a huge role in that first impression.
A great outfit:
- Emphasizes your features.
- Matches your casting type.
- Avoids visual distractions.
- Supports the story your photo is trying to tell.
In short: your outfit is part of your audition—before you even say a word.
General Wardrobe Rules for Acting Photoshoots
Here are the golden rules when picking outfits for your headshots or portfolio:
Fit is everything: Clothes should be snug, not tight. Loose or baggy clothes hide your silhouette.
Solid colours are your best friend: Avoid busy prints or anything that draws attention away from your face.
No logos, graphics, or slogans: Keep it clean and professional.
Necklines matter: Scoop necks, crew necks, and V-necks work well for different face shapes.
Soft fabrics = soft light: Avoid overly shiny or stiff fabrics that reflect light unpredictably.
Stick to clothes that feel like you, only slightly elevated.
What Colours Work Best On Camera
Certain colours not only flatter your skin tone—they also translate beautifully through the lens.
Safe Go-To Shades:
- Jewel tones: emerald, sapphire, burgundy.
- Earth tones: olive, tan, rust.
- Soft pastels: light blue, dusty pink.
- Classic neutrals: black, grey, navy, white.
Avoid:
- Neon colours (they overpower the face).
- Bright reds or oranges (can distort skin tones).
- Tiny stripes or houndstooth (may cause distortion on camera).
Want to stand out? Try layering a neutral base with a bold-colored jacket or top.
Common Outfit Mistakes to Avoid in Headshots
- Logos or text: They cheapen the image and distract the viewer.
- Wrinkled clothing: Always steam or iron before the shoot.
- Over-accessorising: Jewellery and scarves can hide the neckline and bone structure.
- Ill-fitting clothes: Avoid anything that clings in the wrong places or is oversized.
Less is more. Your face should be the focal point.
Outfit Options for Men, Women, and Non-Binary Actors
We style all our clients with confidence and inclusivity in mind.
- Men: Layer a Henley shirt under a jacket, or wear a simple fitted tee. Keep facial hair tidy unless it’s part of your brand.
- Women: Choose tops that complement your neckline and collarbone. Avoid deep plunges unless it suits your roles.
- Non-Binary/Gender Diverse: Pick pieces that reflect your identity and casting versatility—structured button-ups, fitted tees, or minimalist looks are all great options.
Always bring more than you think you’ll need, and we’ll help narrow it down.
Props, Accessories, and Layers: Do You Need Them?
In general, keep it minimal. But there are exceptions.
- Glasses: Wear if they’re part of your real-world look (and bring a pair without glare).
- Hats: Only if you’re often cast in roles where a hat is essential.
- Scarves/Jackets: Great for layered looks, as long as they don’t hide your face or shape.
If you’re unsure, bring them anyway—your photographer can help decide on the spot.
Dress the Part You Want to Book
Your acting portfolio isn’t the time to experiment—it’s the time to focus and present yourself at your best. Think of your outfit as a visual handshake. The right look tells casting directors, “I know who I am, and I know what roles I’m ready for.”
So prep, pack, and come ready to shine—before the flash even hits.
