3 Things to Know About Changing Your Look

There’s more to working with Central Casting than replying to casting messages and submitting for roles. Knowing your look and updating your profile and photos are vital to being a successful Background Actor. Here’s what you need to know if you’re thinking of changing your look.

1. What is my look?

In casting terms, your look refers to your appearance and your ability to portray a role. Wardrobe is used to enhance a look, but you should be able to convincingly portray a role without it. For example, throwing on a leather vest and sunglasses doesn’t automatically make you a convincing biker.

Your look can depend on a variety of factors, like hairstyle, facial hair, piercings, and whether or not you have tattoos. Even seemingly small details, like getting a haircut, can affect your look and the roles you can portray. This is especially true when booking Stand-Ins and doubles that may need to match a principal actor exactly.

So how do you determine your look? Ask friends, family, or someone you trust to be honest about your ability to portray different types of roles. Keep in mind, Casting Directors book their projects based off the aesthetic of the production, so even if you think you’re straight out of Central Casting as a detective, you may not have the specific look that production is going for.

2. Have I updated my online profile?

Your online profile is one of the best ways to show Central Casting the types of looks you can portray. The more accurate information you include, the easier it is for Casting Directors to find you in searches.

Your correct measurements are an important part of your look and are used often in the casting process. If you’re not sure how to figure out your sizes, our Measurements page has easy-to-follow tutorial videos to get you started.

We recommend updating your profile photos any time your look changes. This gives our Casting Directors confidence that they’re casting you based off how you look right now. Uploading additional photos, like different looks you can portray and you in unique wardrobe can also help you find background work. When you upload new photos, don’t forget to delete old ones and update any profile information that may have changed.

3. What roles do I fit?

Once you know your look, you’re ready to find work. Whether you submit through the Jobs page or receive an availability inquiry, be sure to read the entire post or message before responding. Casting Directors include important details in their posts, like sizes, portrayable age, and other look requirements for the role. They may also have you verify your current look or ask other follow up questions in these casting messages. Be sure to answer all questions honestly when responding.

Wardrobe can enhance your look and as a Background Actor, you’re often tasked with bringing your own clothing to set. If submitting photos with wardrobe, remember to only send photos with clothing you own and have access to. If you’re booked with that wardrobe, you will be expected to show up to set with it.

You’ve changed your look and updated your profile, now what? Prepare for your booking by reviewing these Hairstyle Basics for Background Actors and Wardrobe Essentials Background Actors Should Know.