How to Start Taking Pictures to Be a Model
If you're interested in becoming a model, one of the first things you must do is have your picture taken so you can compile a portfolio of photos, or a comp card, that illustrates modeling ability and photogenic qualities.
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Things You'll Need
- Photographer
- Camera
- Makeup and/or makeup artist
- Indoor location for pictures
- Outdoor location for pictures
- Five changes of clothes
- Accessories
Instructions
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Instructions
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1
Hire a photographer who has experience taking headshot and modeling photos.
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2
Hire a makeup artist with experience in creating camera-ready makeup.
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3
Pick your indoor and outdoor photo shoot locations (if the photographer did not already suggest them) and make sure you can utilize them on the day of your shoot for free.
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4
Gather your five changes of clothes and try them on ahead of time to make sure they fit and look fantastic.
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5
Gather any accessories you'll need to accentuate or complete the five outfits you chose.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Take some modeling classes, or practice on your own in front of a mirror before your photo shoot to prepare. Use a photographer with experience in capturing the right look for the modeling industry you want to break into. Also, make sure your indoor and outdoor photo locations have proper lighting (the photographer may bring additional lights).
Decide in advance what size pictures you want in your portfolio (the most popular is 8.5 inches x 11 inches) and make sure the photographer takes a variety of pictures (full body, waist-up, face, and profile).
When you get your pictures printed for your portfolio, consider whether you may also want to develop a comp card: a card, usually about 5 inches x 7 inches, that has a headshot picture on the front and about four pictures of varying poses on the back--along with your measurements, features and contact information.
Beware of some people and companies in the modeling industry that may try to take advantage of your hopes and aspirations by overcharging you for classes or photos. Do your research online to check out the legitimacy of the claims being made, compare pricing and try to get a referral or recommendation from a friend or colleague.
