What to Wear for Your Actor Headshots in Auckland: The Complete Guide
If you’ve just booked your actor headshots in Auckland (or you’re still hovering over the “book now” button), you’re probably wondering the big question: what on earth do I wear?
The right clothing for headshots can feel like a mystery. Too dressy? Too casual? Too much colour? Will that neckline work? Actors often tell me they’re worried about getting it wrong. The good news? It’s much simpler than you think.
Your headshot is about you; your face, your expressions, and the energy you bring to the frame. Clothes are there to support that, not steal the spotlight. In this guide, I’ll walk you through exactly what to wear (and what to avoid) so you can feel confident, comfortable, and casting-ready for your photoshoot.
1. Keep It Simple (Seriously)
The best outfits for actor headshots are often the simplest. Why? Because busy clothes pull attention away from the one thing casting directors actually care about—you.
Solid colours are your best friend. Think earthy tones, jewel shades, and neutrals. Navy, burgundy, forest green, soft grey, and classic black or white all work beautifully.
Avoid logos, bold text, or graphics. A shirt that says “Weekend Vibes” might be cute for brunch but is a hard no for headshots.
Skip the wild patterns. Stripes, polka dots, and loud prints can be distracting and even cause weird effects on camera.
Rule of thumb: If your top is busier than your face, it’s not right for headshots.
2. Necklines Matter
Necklines can quietly make or break your photo. You want something flattering but not distracting.
Scoop, crew, or V-necks usually photograph well.
Avoid deep plunges (unless your casting type calls for a sultry or edgy look).
Skip anything too fussy: ruffles, giant bows, or cut-outs compete for attention.
Think about the shapes that work best on you in everyday life, and bring a few options.
3. Dress for Your Casting Type (Without Dressing in Costume)
This part is important: your outfits should hint at the types of roles you’re most likely to be cast in, but don’t go full costume.
If you’re often cast as a corporate professional, bring a crisp button-down or tailored blouse.
If you’re more of a creative free spirit, a relaxed knit top or simple tee might be better.
If you’re likely to play the “mum next door”, go for soft, approachable tones. Think denim and simple tops.
What not to do: turn up in a lab coat if you want to play a doctor, or a police uniform if you want cop roles. That’s costume. Casting directors need you, not cosplay.
4. Colour Choices: Avoid the Neon Glow
Some colours love the camera. Others… not so much.
Avoid neon or overly bright tones. They can bounce colour back onto your skin, creating an unnatural cast. (Neon green cheekbones aren’t exactly casting-friendly.)
Stick to mid-tones or muted colours. Think earthy, natural shades that complement your skin tone.
Black and white both work but bring balance. Head-to-toe black can look flat (not to mention it attracts lint), while stark white sometimes washes people out. Layering helps.
5. Fit is Everything
You don’t need designer labels, but you do need clothes that fit properly.
Too baggy? You’ll look lost in fabric.
Too tight? It can look uncomfortable and distracting.
Just right? That’s where we want to be. Clothes should skim your body without clinging.
Bring a mix of fitted and slightly relaxed tops. You’d be surprised what works best once you’re in front of the camera.
6. Layer, Don’t Overdo
A light jacket, denim shirt, or blazer can add dimension and variety to your headshots without being overwhelming.
Good: A simple leather jacket for edge, a fitted blazer for a professional vibe.
Not good: Chunky scarves, oversized cardigans, or anything that swallows your shape.
7. Hair & Makeup: Keep It You (Just the Polished Version)
Casting directors want to see you, not a version of you they wouldn’t recognise on set. That said, headshots benefit from professional polish.
Hair: Keep it clean and styled in a way that feels natural to you. Avoid extreme changes right before the shoot.
Makeup: Think “best version of you.” You want your features enhanced, not masked. Avoid shimmery or shiny lips and eyes and keep lip colour relatively neutral.
💡 Many of my Auckland headshot clients choose to book my professional hair and makeup artist for their session. It takes the stress out of prep, ensures you look incredible on camera, and gives you one less thing to worry about on the day. Trust me—it’s worth it. 💡
8. A Few Last Quick Tips
Bring options. Pack 4–6 tops so we can play around with looks.
Avoid anything shiny. Satins and sequins catch the light in weird ways.
Check for wrinkles. The camera sees everything.
Think layers. Sometimes just swapping a jacket or shirt creates a whole new look.
Final Thoughts: Confidence Over Clothes
At the end of the day, your headshots are about your energy and expression. The right clothing simply helps the real you shine through. By keeping it simple, flattering, and casting-appropriate, you’ll look professional and versatile—the kind of actor casting directors can immediately see in a role.
If you’re ready to book your actor headshots in Auckland, I’d love to work with you. I promise a fun, relaxed shoot where you’ll feel completely at ease (even if you normally hate being in front of a camera). With professional guidance on posing, styling, and optional hair and makeup, you’ll walk away with headshots that not only look amazing but also get you noticed.