Portfolio Tips for Models

I’ve put this little list together as a handy reference for models putting together a portfolio. It’s a good idea not to overdo it on the number of images included, because people tend to lose interest after viewing too many pictures (and we don’t want that, do we! ).

Types of Images - black & white and color photos; head and shoulder shots, some with the bare look

Full body shots – different looks such as dressy, business, casual, swim suit, clinging sportswear, leotard, lingerie and the sporty look

Waist shots – (three-quarter-length) ideal for showing off detailed fashions. Extreme close-ups for skin /hair, hands, feet, teeth, hats, product shots, situational shots (e.g. mother and child shots) showing any specialties

Head shots – show good complexion, teeth and hair, both in color and black & white photos

Action shots – such as running, dancing, sports, walking, on swing

Location shots – photos taken at different locations; studio, outdoors in a variety of settings (beach, woods, malls) and downtown type area

Photos showing different emotions – happy/smiling, surprised/shocked and scared/lonely, be creative!

Facial angles – Pictures taken at different angles

Photos with a male (or female) model

Make-up – having your make-up look natural (wearing make-up but doesn’t look like your wearing make-up), having a glamorous look and having your make-up done by a professional

Hair – natural looking hair and having your hair done professionally to show different looks; you should try to show at least three different styles

Wardrobe – you should have at least three different styles of clothing, for example, sportswear, bathing suit, formal dress wear, business and casual

When presenting your portfolio in person, be gracious, open to constructive critisism and freindly. And if people are really rude and/or you don’t like the vibe your getting, get the heck out of there! (hehe).