ESSENTIALS CHECKLIST (ALL CLIENTS MUST READ THIS SECTION)

We are thrilled to work with you on your upcoming session! Preparation is key to keeping things smooth and on schedule. Here's your checklist.

Wardrobe

Commercial headshots sell a personality to advertise a product. Film and TV headshots sell emotional depth to play a character. Depending on what industry you are focused on for your session please see our recommendations below:

Commercial Actor Headshots

• Bright pops, warm tones, jewel tones — royal blue, teal, coral, soft green. Skip black and heavy gray.

• Minimal layering. A fitted crew, clean polo, or untucked button-down over a tee.

• Everyday and accessible. Think guy-next-door, girl-next-door, or relatable professional.

Film / Theatrical Actor Headshots

• Deep, muted, earthy tones — navy, charcoal, olive, burgundy, dark brown, wine.

• Heavy, textured layers. Leather jackets, denim, utility jackets, chunky knits, a statement scarf.

• Character-suggestive. Think detective, rugged outdoorsman, femme fatale, intellectual, or antagonist.

For Kids

• Commercial: bright, cheerful, primary tones. One clean top does the job.

• Film/Theatrical: softer, natural tones and minimal layering that hints at personality without overpowering a young face.

Universal Rule: Avoid bold logos, busy patterns, or micro-stripes — they cause camera moiré distortion. Stick to solid colors and subtle natural textures. Bring a few options so we can adjust based on lighting and the character you're channeling that day.

Hair & Grooming

• Keep it natural. Your headshot should reflect exactly how you walk into a casting.

• Getting a fresh cut? Schedule it at least a week out so it settles.

• Long hair? Bring a brush or styling tools if you want to switch looks mid-session.

• Men: a clean shave or well-groomed facial hair. If you're keeping a beard, make sure it's shaped up.

Makeup

• Less is more. Light, natural makeup that evens skin tone is ideal — avoid heavy contouring.

• Matte finishes work best. Anything too dewy or shimmery can reflect under studio lighting.

• Bring touch-up essentials: translucent powder, lip balm, and blotting papers.

Mindset & Energy

• Rest up. A good night's sleep makes a real difference on camera.

• Hydrate. Your skin looks fresher and more alive when you do.

• Think about the roles you want to book. Whether you're chasing leading roles, comedic characters, or corporate looks, we'll shape your expressions and wardrobe to capture that.

Character Types to Consider

Wardrobe is one of the most powerful tools you have for conveying character. A few archetypes to think through before your session:

• The Sweetheart / Girl-Next-Door / Love Interest — wholesome, kind, approachable. Lighter, brighter colors with youthful layering.

• Authoritative Types — lawyer, doctor, detective, principal. Polished, structured, commanding.

• Family Types — parents, aunts, uncles, grandparents. Ranges from career-driven and sarcastic to nurturing and fun-loving.

• Antagonist Types — villains, criminals, dark energy. Dark turtlenecks, leather layered on top, moody and intense.

• Protagonist / Hero Types — strong, relatable, powerful and poised. Think the everyday person who becomes extraordinary.

Final Touches

• Arrive with clean, moisturized skin.

• If you wear glasses, bring a pair with non-glare lenses if possible.

• Have fun with it — your personality is what makes your headshot stand out!