How to Build a Modeling Portfolio for Free

Whether you're interested in fashion modeling or commercial modeling, having a good portfolio is important for booking modeling jobs and attracting modeling agencies. Hiring professional photographers can be costly, but there are ways you can build a modeling portfolio for free.

Instructions

1. Join a networking website for models and photographers, such as Model Mayhem. Search for photographers in your area that are willing to do TFP, or time for prints, or TFCD, time for CD, shoots. This means the photographer will give you all or some of the photos for free in exchange for your time.

2. Search Craigslist for professional photographers in your area seeking models for photo shoots. These jobs are usually posted in the "Gigs" section under "Talent." Make sure that the photographer is legitimate by asking for a link to his website or online portfolio. Also see the warnings section below for important safety tips when working with new photographers.

3. Another way to build a modeling portfolio for free is to contact photography teachers at local colleges and universities. Often, their students need models for class projects. Also see if there is a makeup artist school in your area. Students studying to become professional makeup artists often need models for photo shoots.

Tips & Warnings

• When doing a TFCD or TFP shoot, it's unlikely that the photographer will have a professional makeup artist. Learn to do your own makeup or network with aspiring makeup artists. You can often find makeup artists willing to do TFCD or TFP shoots on model networking websites and sometimes on Craigslist. When working with amateur photographers, it's possible that you won't like the photos and won't be able to use them in your modeling portfolio. Don't get discouraged as you still gained valuable experience in front of the camera.

• Always bring a friend, family member or significant other with you when you're working with a new photographer. If it isn't possible to bring someone with you to the photo shoot, ask the photographer for professional references. The photographer will probably ask you to sign a model release form giving the photographer rights to use the images. Be sure to read over the document carefully before signing.

References

• "The Professional's Guide to Modeling"; Roger Talley; June 2007
• "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Being a Model, 2nd Edition"; Roshumba Williams, et al.; February 2007
• "Break into Modeling for Under $20"; Judy Gross; July 2008