How to Get Professional Pictures for a Modeling Portfolio

Ask the photographer for makeup and styling tips.

A portfolio is a collection of photos that shows off your skills as a model. For models, it acts as a business card or resume. Clients see what you can do, using your portfolio to decide whether you’re the right fit for their projects. Professional-quality photos are essential for your portfolio. It’s not enough to be attractive. The photos must look good, too. In addition to working with a highly-skilled photographer, your preparation for the photo shoot adds to the quality of the photos.

Instructions

1. Practice your look in a mirror. Try for a variety of looks including confident, casual and sexy. Clients want to see versatility, which leads to more work.

2. Take proper care of your skin. Your face is the main focus, so make it look its best. Avoid over-plucking your eyebrows or getting too much sun.

3. Take care of your body. You don’t have to be thin as can be, but you should be in good shape. Eat right, get enough sleep and exercise regularly.

4. Find clothes that make you look your best. Stick to simple colors, because busy patterns distract from your face. Plan on bringing several different outfits to your photo shoot.

5. Find a photographer that you have good chemistry with. A good photographer makes you feel relaxed and brings out your best qualities in the photos. Ask friends or other models for recommendations. The ideal photographer is one whose clients have had modeling success. Look at examples of his previous work, to see if they look like the type of photos you want for your portfolio.

6. Book your photo session. If you’re not a morning person, avoid booking it for the morning. Pick a time of day where you think you’ll be your most relaxed and at your best.

7. Get plenty of sleep the night before the photo shoot, as bags under your eyes won’t look good.

8. Listen to the photographer at the photo shoot, asking questions and seeking his input when you’re confused or unsure what to do. Remember to have fun, as you begin your career as a model.

References

• Peter Hurley Photography; What Does it Take to Get a Great Headshot?; February 2008

Resources

• The Business of Modeling; 10 Tips for a Great Acting Headshot; Joe Edelman