How to Staple Your Headshot and Résumé Together (Industry Guide)

The correct way to attach your 8×10 headshot and acting résumé for in-person auditions, agent meetings, and casting office drop-offs.

By Greg James Blount, founder of Green Room Acting Studio · Published 2025-12-01 · Updated 2026-08-25

When a printed package is requested, match the résumé to the 8×10 headshot and follow the recipient’s attachment instructions.

The headshot-and-résumé pair is the most fundamental submission format in the acting industry. Here's how to do it right.

The Standard Method

If an in-person audition requests an attached printed package, trim or print the résumé to match the 8×10 headshot and place it behind the photo. Attachment preferences vary: follow the casting office or representative's instructions rather than assuming a specific staple pattern.

Resume on the Back

Matching sizes make a traditional printed package easier to handle. For digital submissions, use the dimensions and file format requested by the casting platform or notice.

PDF Submissions

For email and online submissions, combine headshot and résumé as separate PDF attachments or a single two-page PDF (headshot page 1, résumé page 2).

Print Quality

Use clear, professional printing when hard copies are requested. Your local market, representative, or casting office can advise on current paper and finish preferences.

The Actor's Résumé Builder exports print-ready 8×10 PDFs sized perfectly to pair with your headshot.