Be Realistic

Building your Modeling Portfolio

A modeling portfolio is absolutely necessary to have if you're looking for a modeling job. The modeling portfolio is so important that it can make or break your career. With some time, a lot of patience and the right help, can build a killer modeling portfolio!

• Find a professional photographer to take the photos. Call or visit the photographer and ask about prices, how long it will take to get the photos and the format that the photos are in and ask to see a sample of his work.
• Hire a makeup artist and hair stylist for the photoshoot if you're not highly skilled in makeup. Usually the photographer can recommend one for you.
• Look through magazines to find poses and how the models are expressive. Practice these poses and expressions in front of a mirror.
• Tell the photographer what kind of look you desire and ask for both headshots and full-body shots. Listen carefully to what the photographer says about posing and expressions.
• Sort the photos, once you have them, between the ones that are strong and the ones that are just okay. Your port is what you are using to get hired - five strong shots are better than 10 decent ones. Leave them wanting more.
• Put the pictures in a hardcover portfolio with plastic sheet protectors to keep the photos safe. Put the photos in order from the ones that are most representative of your personality to those that are less representative of your personality. Update the portfolio at least once a year.

• Remember this is a first impression business and you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Your modeling portfolio will always go in the door before you. Set your standards high and only include photos that are very strong.
• Your modeling portfolio should consist only of "great" and "strong" photos. Place your strong pictures in the right hand pages of your portfolio and the "great" pictures on the left hand side.

Refine and Improve

• Remember confidence comes from within. If you don’t feel confident, how are you going to convince a photographer or anyone else to work with you? The lens sees all and any photos you take will be mediocre if you do not believe in yourself and have confidence.  
• Listen to constructive critism but avoid the jealous ones full of “helpful advice”. Being a Model draws attention to you and you'll find some people are more than willing to share a "catty remark" towards you or your work. 
• Be realistic - fashion models are tall and slim. Know which genere you fit best in and prepare for a challenge if you do not fit the traditional requirements. Compensate with your personality and be persistant!  
• “Practice makes perfect” . Practice posing in front of the mirror every day and love what you see. Grab magazines and copy the models expressions and poses.