Choosing the Right Fashion Model Photographer

If you signed up with a modeling agency, in most cases, they will offer to arrange your shoot with a pre-approved photographer and charge you a fee for it. Chances are the photographer they use will probably not be the best professional fashion photographer you'll want to rely on for your model portfolio book. The fact is that ideally you shouldn't even contact modeling agencies before you have a well-crafted portfolio.

What about choosing a friend of yours to shoot your portfolio? Again, the answer is no. Avoid going with the first, or the most convenient option that presents itself. Also, if you're choosing your friend just because you're comfortable getting shot by a friend, think twice about becoming a model. As a professional model, you'll need the confidence to take on assignments and work with new people every day. It's time to start honing those skills.

Do your own research, study models' portfolios, ask for referrals and take your time finding the right photographer for your model portfolio shoot. Check out his photography portfolio website to see his style of work. Choose a photographer whose area of ​​expertise and style matches your vision and style. For example, if you want to become a freelance model, a commercial advertising photographer may be your best bet, as this is the type of work you will be doing the most. It doesn't matter if you get your photoshoot done with multiple photographers - in fact, it can save you money and time by choosing the right photographer who can complement your vision.

And finally, look at the finer details before hiring a photographer. For example, what is included in the package you are offered, how many photos you will receive, rates and any additions, whether you will receive photo prints and/or all digital images.

Learn And Practice The Best Model Poses

Posing in front of the camera as a model is an art in itself. The objective may sound simple, but in reality, it is much more complex than you might realize. In model photography, you must translate a three-dimensional object, your body, into the two-dimensional space of a flat image. Photography poses have to be learned, something that gets better with practice and study.

Put together an inspiration board with teardrops from the best model poses that you love. You can also practice in the mirror. Here's an article on the Best Model Poses along with great tips for a great portfolio for modeling. If you are a male model looking for professional posing tips and ideas, our article might give you some inspiration. Choose your outfits selectively. Clothing is part of the narrative process for any marketing campaign. Your pose should always show off the clothing at its best.

Deciding On The Type of Model Photo You Need

It's important to know in advance what kind of images you want from your model portfolio shoot. Determine the characteristics of the photos needed for a balanced portfolio, the type of modeling best suited to you. Make sure you get great portraits, close-ups and full-body shots as well. Plan your wardrobe changes (swimsuits for big body-shots and evening dresses for those advertising clients) to show off your versatility.

Explain your brief to the photographer clearly and discuss things in detail so that both of you are on the same page as to what needs to be achieved from the photoshoot. In your discussions with your photographers, decide on poses, wardrobe items, locations, looks, themes and concepts for the photoshoot. A clear understanding goes a long way in getting the results you want from a photoshoot and insures against any mistakes or unpleasant surprises.

For tips and inspiration on planning your images, take a look at some stunning model portfolio examples.

Hiring A Professional Hair and Makeup Artist

Though it is not mandatory, it is advisable to hire a professional hair and makeup artist for your portfolio shoot. A professional can add a lot of value to your model profile and make you look even better with the right styling of your hair and makeup. Remember, your model portfolio is a big step forward for you and it's best to get it right the first time. Your photographer should be able to recommend a good makeup artist (any good photographer should be able to make good recommendations on this). Again, definitely take a look at the makeup artist's portfolio website to get an idea of ​​her style. Always have a backup plan (carry your own makeup or enlist the help of a friend) in case your makeup artist fails to show up. Here are examples of the best hairstylist portfolio websites you can visit.

Get Model Photoshoot Done

Make sure the photographer and you have researched the locations beforehand. If you're shooting indoors, make sure the studio

u will be depending on your photographer for this, so do point it out in your discussions. Also, make sure that the photographer has allotted you enough time to accomplish everything and not rush through things.

Get a good night’s sleep before the shoot day and arrive a little early on the location. Make sure that you are calm and not stressed out. Remember, even a tiny hint of nerves shows through in the final images.

Choosing The Perfect Images For Your Model Portfolio

After your photoshoot, it's time to get down to the process of choosing the right images to build your modeling portfolio. Balance your choices and focus on getting both versatility and quality. Don’t end up choosing multiple images in the same pose or wardrobe. Make sure you select head-shots with and without you smiling, full-length shots, and 3/4 length shots. Your portfolio should have between 10-20 images – make sure you pick absolutely the best of the best images that cover all your facets. Do discuss your selection with your photographers and take her advice, but remember that finally, it’s your selection. All your portfolio shots should be high-quality, stunning and stand-out images that make a great first impression.

Get A Printed Modeling Portfolio Book

A printed portfolio still comes in handy if you are meeting someone (remember that you would be meeting a LOT of people). This gives the other person a tangible, real thing to go through while you are there with them. Typically, a printed portfolio is 8” x 10” size (other common sizes are 8.5 x 11, 9 x 12, 11 x 14), but preferences may vary depending on which city you are in. Make sure you have pristine, high-quality prints placed inside a high-quality portfolio book. Do not miss out on the small but important details.

Create Your Online Modeling Portfolio Website

Print portfolios are great for face-to-face meetings, but you cannot be present everywhere. Chances are that most agencies and clients will end up seeing your portfolio online. This is where your portfolio website comes in. Make sure that you choose the right platform for your portfolio website that lets you achieve the unique style that best represents your personality. Your modeling portfolio website needs to be not just stunning but functional as well.

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