How to build a modelling portfolio that lands a contract

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How to build a modelling portfolio that lands a contract

A modelling portfolio not only showcases your works but also plays a crucial role to get the attention of an agency or a client. It’s not easy to create your own one but with these steps, you can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career. Good luck!

Identify the type of model you want to be

modelling portfolio - types of models

There are a lot of choices that you can pick; however, you need to be aware of your strengths, as well as the modelling industry at the moment. For example, if you are a petite model, the fashion industry might not be the one for you. When you finally make a decision as to your model type, it’s essential to ensure that your photos reflect it, whether it’s commercial modeling, fashion modeling, live modeling, catwalk modeling, or even stock photo modeling.

Choose a good photographer

Ideally, you should hire a professional photographer who has experience in taking photos for the specific type of modelling that you want. However, if you don’t have the budget, no need to worry. You can look for a good shooter who is in the process of building their own photography portfolio and make a win-win deal. Before working with them, it’s always good to check their previous works to see if their style of photography fits your modelling type.

Tips: You should check all the finer details, such as how many photos you will get, rates, etc.

Practice different poses

Before a photoshoot, it’s important to practice posing so that you don’t waste time struggling to have a good shoot. Researching about the type of photos that models in your particular category typically have in their portfolio is a great way to learn new techniques when you have just started your modelling career.

Tips: If you don’t have a full-body mirror, it’s time to invest in one. It will help you to observe and make sure you are posing from head to toe.

Pick your outfits

modelling portfolio - choosing best outfits

You should choose the outfits that can showcase your body features and again, fit with the modelling type that you want to pursue.

Tip: Remember to bring jeans and a plain white shirt since you might need to take photos with basic clothes.

Be prepared in the photoshoot

It’s recommended that you come early and communicate clearly with your photographer and makeup artist. During the photoshoot, don’t be afraid to pose differently and ask questions if needed.

Choose your best pictures

After the photoshoot, you might want to sit with the photographer and discuss with them which photos you should pick. Your thoughts and opinions in this process are the most important; however, their feedback can add some value to your selection.

Why do you need a modeling agency? Read our guide

Tip: Your best pictures should be not only high quality but also varied. For example, you might not want to pick pictures with the same pose.

Get a printed portfolio

A printed portfolio is necessary when you need to showcase your work with people. Typically, your portfolio should be 9×12 inches. The cover must be black, and the pages should be easy to flip through.

Now that you have all tips, go and GET Discovered!

About ORANGE Model Management

Orange Models logo

Established in 2006, Orange Models is now a leader in the industry and has quickly grown to become one of Canada’s largest and most diverse modeling and acting agencies with a vision to find and represent the very best models and talents. With offices in Toronto and Montreal, Orange Model Management is an international agency that works with clients from varied industries in countries all around the world, which will help you to boost your career not only in Canada but also internationally.

Orange Model Management has an unimpeachable and responsible attitude towards every aspect of its business and in the discovery, development, and welfare of its model/talent(s). We not only manage talent, but we also build careers and relationships by providing a wide spectrum of model/talent(s) services including Fashion, Print, Commercial, Promotional, Kids, Music Videos, Infomercials, TV promo, Fitness, and Film & Television.