- The place to begin looking for a photographer is in the local area. Most photographers are willing to take photos of aspiring models for portfolio use. The best place to begin is in the local yellow pages. Just remember that the amount of experience a photographer has does not directly relate to quality. At all costs, try not to use large-scale studios like Sears or WalMart. While these studios do produce wonderful photos, the modeling agency is looking for unique photos in a portfolio. To save money, it may be possible to create a dual-use agreement with a photographer. A dual-use agreement is basically a trade of services. The photographer takes the pictures, and both parties are allowed to use those photos in their respective portfolios. Remember that not all photographers will consider this type of deal.
- Keep in mind the purpose of the portfolio; there should be as many different poses, outfits, hair designs and makeup designs incorporated into the shoot as possible. The many changes in hair, makeup, outfit and pose help to present the models versatility. The one shot that should be in every portfolio is a head shot. The poses are up to the model, and traditionally, the outfits are the choice of the model as well. A trick to try with hair and makeup is to visit the local salon and ask if they are looking for a model to add to their portfolio as well. Again, this returns to the dual-use agreement. Most of the time, small salons will agree because they save advertising money on their portfolio. They do the hair, and both parties get the photos.
- The composition of the portfolio is just as important as the quality of the photos. The first thing to do is look through the photos and find the "Wow!" shots. These shots are the generally what the modeling agencies are looking for. Once the wow shots are found, the portfolio can be created. A simple three-ring binder and sheet protectors is all that is needed to assemble the portfolio. Each photo should go in a sheet protector before going in the portfolio. The first shot should be the head shot, then followed by the wow shots. The smallest number of photos should be six or seven but should ideally contain only the wow shots.
- The importance of a portfolio to a model is like water to fish; it is the way to survive. The portfolio should not be taken lightly. Making one is simple--it can be created at home--but finding all of the elements to create the photos is when some finesse and business sense comes into play. Just remember to save room in the portfolio to add more photos as they come in from jobs.
