How I Prep for My Headshots

By Laura Flannery — Actress & Photographer based in Covington, LA

When it’s time for my own acting headshots, I turn half-actor, half-CEO: setting the mood, planning every detail, and mentally prepping to show up confidently on camera.

Because whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been auditioning for years, headshots feel very High stakes. A little nerve-wracking.

The good news?

A little prep makes a huge difference — and makes your shoot day a lot more fun.

Here’s exactly how I get ready for my own headshots, and how I help my clients prep, too.

1. I Start with Casting Goals

Before I even touch my wardrobe rack, I ask myself:

• What roles am I targeting right now?

• What projects or shows do I want to be called in for?

• What "types" am I naturally right for?

Casting is a business — and your headshots are part of your marketing. I want every image to hint at a (broadish) character I could step into tomorrow — whether that's a tough young lawyer, a romantic lead, a quirky best friend, or a suburban mom.

When you shoot with me, we can talk about this ahead of time — even by creating a Pinterest board for reference — so your session is tailored to the roles you actually want to book.

For more on this, check out THIS BLOG POST about finding your inner you and characters.

2. I Curate Wardrobe That Looks Good On Camera

Not just in real life — on camera. There is a difference.

For headshots, I focus on:

• Solid colors (patterns distract the eye)

• Rich tones that flatter my skin and eye color

• Layering pieces like jackets, denim, simple knits

• Necklines that frame my face without overwhelming me

• Wardrobe that suggests character without feeling like a costume.

And yes... I try on everything a few days before and take mirror selfies. (Pro tip: the mirror never lies.) When in doubt, I bring more options than I need. It's always better to have choices once you're in the studio.

For more on what to wear, check out THIS BLOG POST

2.5. I Glam Up with Some Very Real Skin Prep (Because Cameras are Rude)

This is a VERY important step...

I use a magnification mirror the day before my shoot and give my face some much needed love:

• Gently dermaplane (a fancy word for removing peach fuzz so makeup sits smoother and light bounces off my skin beautifully)

• Tweeze any rogue brow, or... let’s be honest... random mustache, chin & jawline hairs

• Double-check for nose hairs (glamorous, I know, but it must be done)

Is it the most luxurious spa experience? No. But do I feel like a goddess once my skin is clean, fresh, and glowing?

This step really helps your makeup artist, your photographer, and can save you money on retouching.

3. I Book Hair and Makeup (Because It’s Worth It)

Even though I know how to do my own makeup and hair… I always book a professional for headshots.

Here’s why:

• They know how to adjust for different lighting and wardrobe

• They spot things you and the photographer might miss (shine, smudges, flat hair)

• They save time and mental energy so I can focus on acting, not blending eyeshadow

• They are quicker than I would be with my hair and makeup and makes me question things less

• They know how to show range with my hair.

The goal isn’t to look “done up.” It’s to look polished, fresh, and camera-ready while still looking like myself.

4. I Set the Studio Vibe (Music, Comfort, Energy)

Energy is everything on shoot day. Bring or pick music that matches the mood you want to capture — whether that's cool indie tracks, a little retro soul, or even some pop to keep me loose. I personaly choose music that helps me relax, so I always opt for Lana Del Ray.

At my studio, I also make sure we have:

• Water and light snacks

• A comfortable space to hang wardrobe

• A mirror for quick touch-ups

• Good vibes only

  
  

When you feel comfortable, your real personality shines through — and that’s the magic casting directors are looking for.

5. I Let Go of "Perfect" and Lean Into Real

The final mental prep?I remind myself: I don’t have to be perfect. I just have to be me — clear, confident, and ready to play.

Casting directors aren’t looking for a perfect mannequin. They’re looking for the human behind the photo.They want to see you, imagine you in a story, and believe you could walk onto set tomorrow.

That realness — the glint in your eye, the softness of your smile, the spark of curiosity — can’t be faked. And it’s never about perfect hair, or the perfect pose. It’s about authentic energy. That's what gets you called in.

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Ready for Your Own Headshots?

If you’re prepping for a new season, a big audition push, or just a branding refresh, I’d love to help.

At my studio in downtown Covington, LA, I create a relaxed, supportive environment that’s all about bringing out your true self on camera — polished, confident, and fully castable.

Want to book a session or a wardrobe consultation? Book your Session HERE and let’s make your next headshots your strongest tool yet.