Model Portfolio Tips

Creating a model's portfolio involves much more than just using the proper or fancy posing and lighting techniques. It also includes the less glamorous and business-oriented aspects of creating these kind of images. The process starts with finding models and ends with a happily signed release. What happens in between these two events-the business side of model photography--is the main focus of this story.

Communicate with your model!

Talk to the people you're photographing--relate to them as human beings--you're never going to create great images without communication. Communication must begin between model and photographer before you even meet.

You should do a little screening, to make sure that you and the model can work together. Set up an interview with your model to get an idea of her personality and the modeling styles she is available for and what hours and days the model is available for photo sessions.

Tips for Great Portfolio Prints

Take the time to ask your model questions now to make for a smoother shoot later. The really good models know that the more different looks they show in their portfolios the better the odds are for them to get better assignments. During the interview you can help the models by providing them with some simple tips that will make them look better during any future photo sessions.

Keep Jewelry to a Minimum

Jewelry should be used for one modeling series, or better yet leave it at home. The same is true of watches.

Wear Solid Colors

Wear solid colors during a photo shoot because the emphasis should be on the model not on the clothes.

Make Sure the Clothes Fit

Models should not wear ill-fitting clothes that do nothing but divert the attention of viewers from the portfolio. Swimsuits for example should be snug, with no gaps showing when they move.

The Camera Shows the Truth

If the model has skin problems, such as peeling from a suntan for the clothing they're planning to wear they should reschedule. Makeup does not fix all.

Hair Styles

Suggest that the models style their hair differently for each change of clothing during a shoot, to provide variety in portfolio images. For variety, try wigs. Hair can change the look of a model's portfolio photos, too; look for fun and interesting hats in thrift and discount stores.

Experiment

When creating portfolio images, experiment with different clothes so the photographer can shoot the model in casual, formal, business, swimsuit, or lingerie.

Expression

A model's face tells the story of who they are when they show expression!

Tattoos and Piercings

Tattoos and piercings limits a model's availability for limited types of assignments. While stylish today, tattoos and piercings detract from a portfolio and future assignment opportunities that may arise.

Makeup

Models should change makeup style and color when changing hairstyles or outfits.

Footwear

Models should bring different styles of high heels and at least one pair of shoes with the highest heels they have. It changes the way they stand and gives them a bit of height that all but the tallest models use.

One Final Tip

One of the most important aspects of communicating with your models is getting them to trust you and to relax. Let the models feel free to make suggestions about makeup and posing . To get the best portfolio images, both model and photographer should work together. Only when you communicate and cooperate will you be able to create great-looking images.