Making Faces in the Mirror

I have never been particularly careful with my appearance. I like wash and wear hair, no make-up, and comfortable clothes that I don’t need to worry about staining. That makes this part of the “biz” particularly difficult for me. First appearances here really do matter. You are always on display.

To get an audition, casting agents ask talent agents to submit actors who fit a particular look. That’s why headshots matter — and it’s not about good looks, but about authenticity and looking “the part”, whatever that part is. So, while I loved my first headshots because they made me look really good, my agent didn’t because they didn’t convey much about my personality.

So, before heading off for your headshots, make faces in the mirror. Knowing the roles you are suited for, figure out the kind of looks that convey that personality. Also, figure out which of your normal expressions do not translate well to film. For instance, my big smile causes my eyes to sink into the back of my head — not a good look. Also, make sure your wardrobe (at least four outfits) demonstrate your mastery. I needed a neighbourly older woman, a business woman, and someone who could do yoga or light weights. Pick different colours as well. It’s a good thing to keep these rules in mind when you next go clothes shopping. I have discovered that the capsule wardrobe, mostly neutrals, is not necessarily the best approach.

You also want to look good and the part when shooting your self-tapes. Another reason to have these outfits figured out in advance. Casting agents don’t want costumes, but it doesn’t hurt to dress for a sense of the character.

And make-up. It should be natural. On the other hand, you want to cover up any blemishes. As an older woman, that means bags under my eyes, wrinkles, and age spots. I can’t cover them all up because they want someone who looks older but, presumably well-preserved.

And hair. I’m fortunate that I have thick, wavy hair, but I have no idea how to style it. I try and it rarely turns out the way I want it too. But, I’ve said my goal for this year was to learn. I just didn’t think it was going to be cosmetology.

And NAILS. A number of the commercials I’ve auditioned for want to see my hands — front and back. My nails are thin and tear easily. I don’t do a good job shaping them and I rarely wear polish of any sort (they want clear polish). The psychological barrier is high.

Don’t forget that post I wrote about building your business. That means networking. I was surprised at how beautifully, though casually, dressed the attendees were at the local film meetups. You could easily tell the newbies. We were the only ones in jeans and Ts. Next time, I too will wear a dress that is neither too dressy nor too messy. And pigs have wings. I will try though. That will also mean makeup, hair, and properly done nails. Maybe I’ll have mastered them by then. I can always dream!