A model’s portfolio is not only the main professional attribute of any model, but also the main means of conquering modeling Olympus. The best portfolio for a professional model is also a testament to her success in this field. And the more status and well-known the photographer working with the model, the higher her status is. Placing weak or unprofessional photos in a portfolio is one of the best ways to not get a lucrative contract, and vice versa – great photos taken by a talented photographer can help you get a lucrative order. That’s why creating a portfolio for a model is far from the easiest task. This process requires dedication from both the photographer and his team, as well as from the model herself. It requires preparation, styling, makeup, time, skills and knowledge from all participants in the shoot, and, of course, patience.
A successful modeling portfolio can be divided into 3 parts:
Snapshots – no retouching, no makeup, simple clothes, preferably natural light, plain background, heels, two-piece swimsuit. This part is done so that the customer (director, fashion designer, etc.) can evaluate the model as it is.
Model tests are simple looks (several), plain clothes, minimal or no accessories, light makeup and simple hairstyle. The main task of the model test is to emphasize the model’s advantages and reveal her professional qualities, posing skills, and behavior in the frame. Unlike snapshots, tests can include an artistic component that will show the character of both the model and the photographer.
Book is the most interesting and challenging. Any makeup, background, style, clothes, and so on. Most often, a creative photoset that can show the customer how the model can advertise their product. So, in fact, this part is an advertising shoot where the model demonstrates the ability to promote and advertise a brand. This is the part we love the most.
These are the main stages of creating a professional portfolio, which every professional model who dreams of becoming one should have. It needs to be constantly updated by choosing photographers who shoot in different styles and with different technical approaches to photography. After all, the more diverse your portfolio is, the more customers you can demonstrate the benefits they are looking for in a model for their brand/product. But you shouldn’t get carried away with adding mediocre photos to your model portfolio either. Let there be a little less of them than is possible, but they will only make a positive impression or even a wow effect.