Modeling Portfolio

 

Professionalism and creativity are two important keys to success in any resume or portfolio.

When it comes to a modeling portfolio, it is important to create something that sets an individual

apart and distinguishes them from the masses. This article will go through everything models

need to know about building the perfect modeling portfolio that will almost guarantee a place in

any photoshoot or campaign.

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So what is a modeling portfolio? A modeling portfolio is an online or physical lookbook of

professional photos of a variety that showcase a models true talent. These professional photos

should display a models versatility, beauty, and a models ability to express themselves in

whatever photo shoot they are a part of. Agencies then look at these portfolios to see if a model

can actually tell a story through these photos and portray authentic feelings or emotion then

translate that into a client or agency's own vision.

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How to Create a Modeling Portfolio

Creating a modeling portfolio can be a little daunting. Here are several factors that go into a

successful portfolio:

1. Decide on your modeling type or niche

2. Arrange a professional photo shoot based on your best modeling types

3. Chose a portfolio template

4. Present your best shots (high-quality images)

5. Share information about yourself (a resume)

6. Add a contact section

7. Add a social media reference or personal blog in order to inject your personality

The Best High Quality Shots

When it comes to choosing what photographs should be used in your portfolio it’s important to

understand the different types of shots.

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Beauty Shot or Headshot

The difference between a beauty shot and a headshot are the specific industries these shots

are used in. A beauty shot is used mainly in fashion and editorial modeling while a clean

headshot is mainly used in commercial modeling.

A beauty headshot is a colored photo of a model that focuses on a model's face, generally from

the shoulders up. These photographs focus on a model's natural beauty giving the client or

modeling agency an exact natural look they can expect from a model.

 

A clean commercial headshot can be shot in color or black and white. These shots are taken

from the waist up and typically are more relaxed than beauty headshots.

A beauty shot or a headshot should always be the first photo displayed in a modeling portfolio.

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Full Length Body Shot

The second photo displayed in a modeling portfolio should be a full length body shot. These

shots give agencies or clients an idea of the model's body type and proportions. The clothing

worn in these photos should best compliment the model's physical shape. Clothing should be

form fitting and simple using a natural color pallet.

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Swimsuit Shot

The third photograph in a modeling portfolio should be a swimsuit shot. These photos portray

models in a more intimate way as well as give agencies and clients a closer view of a models

physical beauty. Women should be photographed in a two piece while men in board shorts.

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A Smiling Shot

Smiling shots are important to a model profile in order for agents and clients to see a model's

smile and teeth. The goal of this photo is to simply let agents and clients know what they are

working with. Perfect teeth are not mandatory.

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Closing Shot

This shot should be a model's best shot. One that leaves an impression on whoever is

reviewing the modeling profile. This shot can be another beauty shot or even go as far as

creative and abstract. This shot is meant to embody a model's best work and personality.

 

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Vital Information To Share in a Modeling Portfolio

It is important to provide information about yourself in your modeling portfolio. Typically agents

or clients are interested in a model's experience, age, height, body measurements, hair color

and eye color. It also may be a good idea to provide information on features that are unique and

appealing such as tattoos, birthmarks, flexibility or anything else that may make a photo shoot

more unique and appealing. Including a resume incorporating these details is ideal but not mandatory.

Furthermore, it is important to include a contact section in a modeling portfolio making it easy for

clients and agencies to reach out. This section can be a separate page within the portfolio or within your resume/about me page. This information is critical to be able to be found easily and intuitively.

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Make sure contact information includes:

1. Name

2. Business email address

3. Phone number

4. Website links

A work in progress

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Just like a job resume, modeling portfolios should be updated and reworked frequently. These

portfolios are never finished and are always changing in order to exhibit a model's next best and

current work. Take advantage of shooting with a variety of different photographers in a variety of

different photo shoot types and themes. This will add to the portfolio collection and versatility. To

conclude, a modeling portfolio should tell a story about the model and where a model is

planning to head within their career. It is also best to remember that quality is better than

quantity when deciding on how many photos should be featured in a modeling portfolio.