Your headshot isn’t about being glamorous — it’s about being authentic.

Casting directors want to see you, not a version of you filtered or styled beyond recognition.

• Keep makeup natural (unless your look genuinely requires more).
• Choose simple, clean hairstyles that frame your face.
• Avoid heavy filters or airbrushing — subtle touch-ups are fine, but keep texture visible.

🎯 Aim: Look like you would walking into an audition tomorrow.

Invest in a professional headshot photographer who understands actors and casting — not just general portraits.

Ask to see:

• Their previous actor headshots
• How they work with natural light and studio setups
• Whether they provide black-and-white or colour options (you’ll want both)

💬 Tip: You should feel comfortable during your session — connection creates confidence, and confidence shows on camera.

Before your session, think about your “casting range.”

Are you often seen as:

• The lead detective?
• The young mum?
• The rebellious teen?
• The comedic best friend?

Discuss these archetypes with your photographer and plan outfits that subtly hint at them — without becoming costumes.

👕 Example: A leather jacket for “edgy,” a soft jumper for “approachable,” a blazer for “professional.”

Stick to solid, neutral tones that complement your complexion. Avoid busy prints, stripes, or logos.

• Dark greens, navy, plum, and charcoal always photograph well.
• Avoid pure white or overly bright colours that can reflect light.
• Bring 3–4 outfit options to create variety across looks.

📷 Different tops = different moods = more casting opportunities.

Natural light (soft daylight) is flattering and feels authentic.

Backgrounds should be simple, with soft depth of field — blurred but complementary.

• Eyes in focus, sharp clarity
• Cropped from mid-chest upward
• No dramatic shadows or high-contrast filters

✨ The best shots feel alive — your eyes should tell a story.

Ask your photographer for:

• High-resolution digital copies
• Cropped and uncropped versions
• Colour and black & white
• Standard 8x10 format for Spotlight & Mandy

🎞️ Save one file labelled:

FirstnameLastname_Headshot2025.jpg

• Overly stylised or fashion-style photography
• Distracting props or strong backgrounds
• Hair covering the face
• Wearing sunglasses, hats, or accessories
• Using selfies or school photos — ever!

⚡ If it doesn’t look like a professional production still, it doesn’t belong on your Spotlight profile.

Refresh your headshots every 12–18 months or whenever your look changes significantly (e.g. haircut, hair colour, or age range).

🎥 A headshot should always represent who you are today — not two years ago.