How to Make a Zed Card
A zed card (also known as comp card, or composite card) serves as a model's professional calling card. The purpose of a zed card is to showcase yourself in a variety of different looks, and to best demonstrate to casting directors and other potential employers what you are capable of.
Other People Are Reading
Instructions
-
-
1
Choose your looks.
Spend time thinking about what looks you can realistically portray, and portray well. A standard zed card for a young female model might include a swimwear shot, commercial shot, business shot, fashion shot, and of course- a good quality head shot. A "swimwear shot" is just what it sounds like: a picture of the model in swimwear- shorts for guys and a simple bikini for girls. This shot is a standard in the modeling world, as it allows casting directors to accurately see the model's body type and shape. A "commercial shot" refers to a picture you might see in a catalogue- it is typically clean cut and has broad appeal- picture jeans and a brightly colored shirt, for example. A "business shot" is conservative, and might picture the model in a suit or other professional attire. A "fashion shot" shows the model in apparel and pose similar to what you might see in Vogue or other high fashion magazines. A headshot is a particular type of picture- typically shot from the shoulders, up- that clearly and cleanly shows the model's face.
-
2
Find a photographer.
Finding the right photographer for your zed card can sometimes be an overwhelming proposition. In most cities, there are literally hundreds of photographers- both professional and amateur- advertising their services. A good way to look for photographers is to search online at sites like www.modelmayhem.com or www.onemodelplace.com. These websites allow you to browse photographers by location, and lets you view countless photographers' profiles (including portfolios, important details, and references from other models he or she has worked with) before you choose whom to actually contact. When you eventually talk or meet with a photographer, come prepared not only to hear what he has to offer, but also to state what you need, photo-wise, and what you are looking for in a photographer. The right photographer will make you feel at ease, be professional, and be open about fees and policies upfront.
-
-
3
Choose zed card layout and add personal stats.
The standard zed card is 5.5"x8.5", is printed on heavy paper, and is two-sided. The model's headshot and name are printed on one side, and her stats and additional photos on the other. Having the correct stats on your zed card is of utmost importance, since it allows casting directors to visualize and understand, at a glance, your body type, and whether you would be appropriate for a particular project (where oftentimes the model is hired to fit clothing and not the other way around). Standard zed card stats include: height, 3 sizes (bust-waist-hips), shoe size, hair color, and eye color. The back side of the zed card can include anywhere from 2 to 6 photos from your portfolio, with the standard number being 3 or 4. A good zed card printing service will usually have a variety of layout options for you to choose from, and then you can simply "plug in" your photos to a specific layout when you order.
-
4
Find a zed card printing service.
Once you are ready to get your zed cards printed, you'll want to look for a professional photo printing company. Many printing companies now operate primarily through their websites, which makes ordering zed card prints a relatively simple process. Search for and browse photo printers, taking into consideration details like price (not only for the cards themselves, but for possible "extras" such a photo retouching), shipping details, turnaround time on orders, and the company's reputation within the modeling industry. A great way to find a good zed card printer is to look at other models' zed cards. When you see one that appeals to you, find out what printing service she used. Modeling websites- such as the two listed in Step 2, among others- are also helpful resources. Spend some time in the sites' forums and message boards, and you are sure to hear which printers are recommended within the industry, and which are best avoided!
-
1
Tips & Warnings
For the sake of accuracy and precision, it's worth your time to get your measurements taken by a tailor or other professional.
When choosing photos for your zed card, don't be afraid to ask around for others' opinions. Sometimes it is helpful to have a variety of viewpoints, especially since others can be more objective about your photos than you can. Just remember, though, to ultimately make the decisions that feel right to you, as you're the one who will have to live with them.
Legitimate photographers will have no problem providing references, if asked. Don't be afraid to do some shopping around, and always trust your instincts when it comes to feeling uncomfortable around a photographer.
