Many important factors contribute to you booking your first modelling job. Whether you have the right look for the campaign is a huge part of that – and having a portfolio that represents you and your brand is a step in the right direction.
Aspiring models will greatly benefit from a printed portfolio as well as an online modelling portfolio. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you’ll need to know about building a strong portfolio.
What Is A Model Portfolio?
A model portfolio is a collection of photographs that showcase your ability as a model. You’ll need to show versatility for many roles – having a varied portfolio will aid you greatly.
Your portfolio should contain a headshot without makeup, a smiling shot, a full-length body shot, a swimsuit shot, an editorial fashion shot, and a commercial shot. Top models always finish with a strong closing shot to leave a lasting impression.
Your pictures should be natural – without too much makeup, and your clothes should fit your body so the people looking at them can see you. Top agencies will picture you in different campaigns, so block colours that show off your frame are recommended – no busy patterns!
It can be worth getting your hair and makeup done professionally for your shoot, so you do look at your best. A professional will understand that a portfolio does not require a lot of makeup, which can increase your confidence, resulting in better photos.
The Types Of Professional Modeling Portfolio
As well as having a physical portfolio to take to castings, there are other ways to get the attention of scouts, including;
Model eBook
A model eBook is a digital portfolio – you can easily update it as you go and reorganise your shots. It is a great way to be seen, even without an agency. It takes on the appearance of a digital book and makes it easy for people to look through your pictures.
Digital portfolio
A digital portfolio is similar to an eBook but would be hosted on a platform such as Instagram. It would give you the same opportunity to showcase your work online. If you are with an agency, this may be an option they use to showcase their models to clients.
Zcards
Zcards are like business cards but have your best pictures and relevant information such as contact details and measurements. These are great for networking events.
You would need to ensure that the layout, pictures used, and font are clear and of high quality. If you hand these out to people in the industry, you need to ensure they do not look cluttered and thrown together.
Website
Having your own website gives you more freedom in terms of setup and design. It also functions as a great way for people to see your work and direct them to your social media channels or contact details.
The Cost Of A Portfolio
If you choose to get your portfolio photos professionally shot, the price can differ depending – but you should expect to pay anywhere upwards of £200 for the shoot and prints.
This cost will rise depending on the number of prints you need and the standard of the photographer.
The Benefits Of Having Your Own Modelling Portfolio
Having your own portfolio gives you the freedom to go after jobs that will further your modelling career.
Potential employers will need to see evidence and examples of your previous work to decide on your suitability, as well as decide on which campaigns you’ll work on.
Do I Really Need A Professional Model Portfolio?
Trying to be a professional model without a portfolio is not impossible, but it can be a major disadvantage.
In a casting call, you don’t have long to showcase your versatility – and suitability – for a job. You have even less time without a portfolio, as agencies will only be able to see what you present to them on the day.
How To Use A Model Support Service To Aquire A Professional Portfolio
Researching and getting in touch with a model support service to create your professional modelling portfolio could result in you getting the boost you need to start your career.
Having an idea of what type of modelling you want to get into will help, and using a professional service experience should result in something that modelling agencies are looking for.
Maintaining Your Own Portfolio And The Importance Of Keeping It Updated
Going for a job with outdated photos that don’t represent your current look will reflect badly on you.
It’s good practice to keep an up to date portfolio, to show potential agencies what you currently look like in different poses and campaigns.
FAQs
Where can I find great model portfolio examples?
Searching online will help you to determine what portfolio styles are currently popular, as well as showing you potential photoshoot ideas or inspiration.
Taking the time to research your desired modelling agencies will also give you examples of what they are looking for.
Do I need my own model portfolio website?
You don’t need your own website – but it doesn’t hurt to have one! A website is a great way to showcase your work and direct people to social media profiles.
A strong online presence will help you be seen and help you stay in touch with other models, photographers, designers, brands, and modeling industry experts.
Your online presence will also help with networking and keeping up to date with the latest industry trends. Making sure your website, online portfolios or social media channels stay up to date is very important as they represent you and your brand.
Is hiring a professional fashion photographer for my model portfolio shoot worth it?
Your portfolio must look as good as it possibly can. This will be used by casting agents or agencies, so you will want to give them a good impression.
Paying a professional fashion photographer might be at the higher end of the scale regarding portfolio cost. Still, it should result in high-quality portfolio images that would translate well to the people that matter.
Before booking any photographer for your portfolio photoshoot, you should look at examples of their previous work and fully explain what you are looking for. This way, you should not be left disappointed, and you may actually be lucky enough to find the next big thing in photography before they hit the big time.
