Should I bring a headshot and resume to every audition?
When to bring them
For in-person theater, film, and TV auditions, it's standard to bring a headshot and resume. Even if you've submitted digitally, having a hard copy is professional and helps the casting team remember you. Bring at least two copies in case there are multiple auditors.
For self-tape auditions, you usually don't need to bring a physical headshot, but you may be asked to slate your name and sometimes hold up a headshot. For commercial auditions, they often take a photo or digital submission, but bringing one doesn't hurt.
If the casting notice says "no headshot necessary" or "digital submissions only," follow that. But if you're unsure, bring them. It's better to have them and not need them than to need them and not have them.
- Bring to in-person theater, film, and TV auditions.
- Bring at least two copies for multiple auditors.
- Self-tapes: usually not needed, but have a digital copy.
- Commercials: often digital, but a hard copy is fine.
- Follow the casting notice if it specifies.
What they should look like
Your headshot should look like you on a good day: well-lit, clear, and current (within the last year or two). Avoid heavy filters or outdated looks. A simple, neutral background works best. The resume should be trimmed to fit the back of the headshot, listing your name, union status (if any), contact info, credits, training, and special skills.
If you don't have a professional headshot, a clear photo from a friend with good lighting can work for smaller auditions. For your resume, keep it to one page and list relevant experience. If you have no credits, list training and skills.
Staple the headshot and resume together (headshot on top, resume on back) or print them on a single sheet. Make sure your name and contact info are on both. Bring them in a folder or envelope to keep them clean.
- Headshot: current, well-lit, and looks like you.
- Resume: one page, trimmed to fit the back.
- Include name, contact, credits, training, skills.
- Staple headshot and resume together.
- Keep them clean in a folder or envelope.
Common mistakes
- Not bringing a headshot and resume when they are expected, which can make you look unprepared.
- Using an outdated or heavily edited headshot that doesn't look like you.
- Bringing a messy or overly long resume that is hard to read.
