Essential Photos to Include in Your Portfolio

So you’ve decided to jump into the magical but competitive world of modeling. Since you’re here, chances are you are still figuring out how to start. The straightforward way is to get your portfolio shot and send it to various local, international, and well known agencies. Continue reading to know the essential photos to include in your portfolio.

What A Portfolio Does

The agencies will offer you a contract if they think you have what it takes. They’ll send that portfolio to clients for shoots they think you could cast for.

So your portfolio is what will make an agency sign you and a client call you for a casting. Here are some essential photos to include in it:

Essential Photos to Include in Your Portfolio

Beauty Headshot

This is the most important picture in your portfolio. It is the first one the clients will see. We recommend that women wear light, minimal makeup to show off their natural features. While for men, makeup is optional, your facial hair must be well-groomed.

Wear simple clothes not to draw attention away from your face. This photo is usually taken in studio for a cleaner look.

Full Body Shot

A full body photo will show the client your complete physique. This will help them decide if you cater to the audience they wish to reach. There is a market for all shapes and sizes, from thin to plus-sized, to very tall, and short. Wearing solid-colored figure-hugging clothes are the most flattering for these photos.

In Studio Commercial

For in studio commercial modeling, it is important that you showcase yourself. For this type of look, you will have your photo taken on a gray backdrop so that the agency can focus more on your ‘look’ without being distracted by a colorful background. This will help the agency better determine what types of jobs you would be best for.

Outdoor Photos

While most of your photos should be in the studio, one or two great on-location shots are great to add some diversity into your portfolio. These photos can be more casual, relaxed and fun. They are great to show off your personality, and are good to show the agency who you really are.

Swimwear

If you are unsure whether or not you would be willing to show off in a swimsuit, that’s alright. Swimwear photos are not a necessity, but they can be a fantastic addition to your portfolio and opens your options for future swimwear shoots.

Wrapping up your shoot

Now that you know the essential photos to include in your portfolio, let’s book a shoot and get you set up for success!