How to Create a Modeling Portfolio
Modeling portfolios are an important part of your career. You need a good portfolio to jumpstart your success in the modeling world. Still, you don’t want to create a portfolio on a whim. Portfolios need to be expertly planned and crafted for the best results. If you are new to modeling, you might not know where to start, though. So, in this post, we will go over how to create a modeling portfolio the right way. Each step you need to take will be detailed here!
Steps You Can Take to Build Up Your Modeling Portfolio:
The following step by step guide will help you create the best modeling portfolio. You want to take your time and make something that follows industry standards. So read our post carefully!
1. Figure Out What Type of Modeling You Want to Do
As an aspiring model, you want to know what type of modeling you will be getting into. There are tons of different modeling types. You could be a high fashion model, a commercial model, a hair model, and even a stock photo model. So, before you put your portfolio together, you should know which niche of modeling is right for you. This way, you can tailor your photos to the modeling field you are interested in specifically. Think about this decision carefully, then start thinking about what kind of shots you want to do for your portfolio. Different modeling has different requirements, after all.
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2. Get a Good Photographer
The next thing you want to do is hire a good photographer. If you are signed with a modeling agency, you won’t have to worry about hiring someone to do your photos. This will be taken care of by your agent. However, if you are doing freelance modeling, or you want to invest a little in some early headshots, you will need to do some research on your local photographers. You don’t have to spend a ton of money to get great professional headshots for your portfolio. But you do want a photographer who knows what they are doing. So, if you are a brand new model, who is looking to sign with an agency, you should set a budget for yourself. Your agency will eventually make a portfolio for you, so you want to limit your expenses on a shoot.
Really, you just need to find someone who has experience with models and is looking to build up their portfolio of work. This way, you will get a better price. On a side note, though, if you are a freelance model who is looking to work full-time, try to get someone who takes really professional shots. It might cost you more, but you have to market yourself, so it is worth it!
3. Plan Your Shots
After you find your photographer, start planning your shots. Figure out what kinds of photos you are going to take. You will need some headshots, body shots, and closeups. You also want to have proper attire for your photoshoot. You don’t want to wear anything too over the top, though. Wear something basic that looks good on you and accentuates the shape of your body. Also, consider doing a swimwear shot as well. You will need to talk to your photographer about these choices and the tone of your shoot. You can also take their input if they have done modeling work before.
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4. Get Your Hair and Makeup Done Professionally
As a model, your hair and makeup need to look good on camera. You can hire a professional hair and makeup artist. We highly recommend doing this, so your shoot looks better. However, if you have to do your makeup and hair yourself, this should not be an issue. Like your clothing, you want a basic look for your shoot. Make sure your makeup looks natural, and don’t do your hair in any crazy style. If you are looking to join an agency, this is especially crucial. Scouters are looking to see your beauty and features, so you want a minimalist look. If you are doing a freelance portfolio, you can add more style and flair to your shoots. This can set more of a tone for your website or social media page.
5. Pick a Good Location
You want to pick an ideal location for your shoot. There are several great locations to choose from. You can take photos in nature, in your home, and in a studio setting. You will have to make this decision with your photographer, though. They need to know whether you want to shoot indoors or outdoors. This way they can set up a studio, or adjust their schedule for an outdoor shoot.
6. Prepare for Your Shoot
Eat a nutritious meal and get a good night of rest before your shoot. On the day of your shoot, bring yourself a snack, hairbrush, phone charger, and anything else you might need during the day.
7. Look Over Your Photos
You want to put your best photos into your portfolio. So, look over each photograph, and choose the ones that look the best. You need around twelve to sixteen shots to create a full portfolio. So, we recommend getting copies of all your photos and carefully making your selection. In addition, don’t be afraid to ask for someone else’s opinion. This can help narrow down your choices!
8. Print Out Your Portfolio
Everything is digital nowadays, but it is still important to print out your portfolio. Sometimes you need something physical to hand over to potential clients or agencies. However, ensure that your photos are of high quality and have a high resolution. Also, put your pictures in a binder or a photobook, so they look professional and organized.
9. Post Your Photos Online
Lastly, you want to post your photos online. Social media is your best option. Instagram and Facebook have the largest reach online. Still, don’t be afraid to make a modeling website and create your own digital portfolio. This could help you stand out even more, especially if you link your social media account to your website.