{"id":52179,"date":"2018-10-10T09:00:14","date_gmt":"2018-10-10T13:00:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/?p=52179"},"modified":"2022-05-06T13:03:07","modified_gmt":"2022-05-06T17:03:07","slug":"how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Starting a career in modeling can be very challenging, more so if you don\u2019t have anything to show off to potential agents and advertisers. Fortunately, creating your own <strong>modeling portfolio<\/strong> is pretty easy. With the following steps, you can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career. Good luck!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Build a Modeling Portfolio<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52187\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_1026231475.jpg\" alt=\"two female models in colorful outfits against purple studio background\" class=\"wp-image-52187\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_1026231475.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_1026231475-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Your modeling portfolio is essentially your resume. It should have everything you need to make a good impression and showcase what you can do, so it should obviously include your most flattering photos and previous features, if there are any. You can create a short version that you can submit to modeling agencies, aside from the complete set or book that you\u2019ll be bringing with you to all your interviews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re ready to get started, check out our easy step-by-step guide for building an impressive modeling portfolio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Determine your modeling type<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52192\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_112151480.jpg\" alt=\"attractive male model for watch catalog\" class=\"wp-image-52192\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_112151480.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_112151480-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Fortunately for aspiring models, there are many different types of modeling that one can get into. The first step in building your portfolio is to determine which specific type of modeling you prefer and are best suited for, as many of them have their own preferred model specifications. For example, a live model working at trade shows will have to look positive and approachable, aside from being physically attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Your photos should reflect the type of modeling you\u2019re hoping to get into, whether it\u2019s commercial modeling, fashion modeling, live modeling, catwalk\/runway modeling, or even stock photo modeling. Specifying it early on will not only help you focus on marketing yourself for the part but will also make it easier for recruiters and agencies to place you in a particular category.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hire a good photographer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52182\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_350304548.jpg\" alt=\"female model in the middle of high fashion photo shoot\" class=\"wp-image-52182\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_350304548.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_350304548-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>An important part of the creation of your modeling portfolio is the photographer you hire for your first modeling photos. If you\u2019re very serious about making your portfolio look as authentic as possible, you can look for a professional who already works in the modeling industry. But if you don\u2019t have the connections or are on a budget, you can always go for a good shooter who\u2019s still in the process of building their own <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-make-a-photography-portfolio\">photography portfolio<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The key to choosing a good photographer is to check their work beforehand. It would be great if the photographer is somewhat experienced in photographing the type of model that you are hoping to be so you can benefit from their artistic direction and expertise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><i>Bonus Tip: Make sure you have clean, studio photos as these usually look more professional and impressive to agencies, compared to lifestyle photos that tend to take the attention away from the model.<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Hire a professional hair and makeup artist<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52183\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_525728962.jpg\" alt=\"makeup artist doing model\u2019s face\" class=\"wp-image-52183\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_525728962.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_525728962-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>While you may be able to get away with an aspiring photographer with amazing talent, we highly suggest that you hire a professional hair and makeup artist\u2014particularly one who\u2019s experienced in doing faces for pictorials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Studio flashes tend to react differently with certain types of makeup, so the camera will likely capture imperfections, like uneven and blotchy foundation, or exaggerate your glittery highlight. At the same time, what may look like heavy makeup in person will look a little understated on camera. To be sure, do a couple of test shots with your hair done and makeup on before you actually start shooting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Practice posing<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52191\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"300\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_104129702.jpg\" alt=\"male model doing a couple of different poses\" class=\"wp-image-52191\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_104129702.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_104129702-300x100.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you actually do the photo shoot, you\u2019ll want to be prepared for it. Photo shoots tend to take a long time, even with professional models, so you won\u2019t want to waste time figuring out how you should pose during studio hours. We&#8217;ve compiled lists of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/female-model-poses\/\">female model poses<\/a> and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/male-model-poses\/\">male model poses<\/a> to help you get started. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Make good use of the internet to research about the type of photos that models in a particular category typically have in their portfolio. Make sure you have a full-body mirror with you and practice doing a wide variety of poses with your head, hands, arms, legs, and feet. You may also want to try out different facial expressions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Fashion is a little more forgiving, as you can usually do a wide range of poses with your entire body. Take note of your favorite poses and get comfortable with new ones, so your confidence can be translated into your images later on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose your outfits<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52181\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_278878370.jpg\" alt=\"female choosing outfits for model photo shoot\" class=\"wp-image-52181\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_278878370.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_278878370-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>One last important thing you\u2019ll need to do before your shoot is to pick out the clothes that you\u2019re going to be wearing. This, again, should depend on the type of modeling that you\u2019re hoping to do. But as a general rule, you\u2019ll want to include basic pieces of clothing like jeans and a plain white shirt.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Top modeling agencies will likely look beyond all the flashy, colorful clothes, so you might as well focus on showing off your frame and how you really look like when you\u2019re starting out. Stay away from prints, patterns, and oversized clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember to bring a lot of extras since you want to have a lot of pictures\u2014but definitely not in the same two or three outfits!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Have your photo shoot<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52185\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_651476455.jpg\" alt=\"behind the scenes of a model photo shoot\" class=\"wp-image-52185\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_651476455.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_651476455-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>When the big day comes, treat it as your first modeling \u201cgig.\u201d Be professional, arrive early, communicate with your photographer and makeup artist, and don\u2019t act like a diva on set. Don\u2019t be afraid to ask questions and try your best to vary your styles in front of the camera to show your versatility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If your photographer doesn\u2019t have one, make sure you have a \u201cshot list\u201d prepared. Take a couple of headshots (frontal and profile), mid-shots, half-body shots, as well as whole body shots\u2014ideally for every set or \u201clook.\u201d This will help you have a lot of photos to choose from later on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><i>Bonus Tip: Tell your photographer to keep your set well-lit (for now, so agents will be able to see the real you) and your photos all colored. Should you want to make any of your photos black-and-white, you can decide and have them edited later on.<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Choose your best shots<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52184\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_648522751.jpg\" alt=\"male model doing a couple of action poses for the camera\" class=\"wp-image-52184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_648522751.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_648522751-300x167.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Perhaps one of the most challenging steps is choosing your portfolio images. For a truly professional portfolio, you\u2019ll want only a few of your best shots\u2014around 12 to 16, including a variety of headshots, mid-shots, and full-body shots in different outfits. Request for smaller digital copies from your photographer so you can bring them home and take your time in selecting the best ones. Other people\u2019s opinions can also be very helpful during this process. Remember\u2014quality over quantity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>During this time, you may also want to have another photo shoot outdoors just to add more variety, with you in different locations and lightings. Of course, this is not always a requirement for beginners, especially those who can\u2019t afford two pictorials. But if you can make it work (DIY your shoot or agree on an ex-deal with a good photographer), it can help make your portfolio stand out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Have your portfolio book printed<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52188\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_3110401.jpg\" alt=\"model showing off her porfolio\" class=\"wp-image-52188\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_3110401.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_3110401-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you\u2019re absolutely sure about your photos, it\u2019s time to have them printed&nbsp;and arranged in a portfolio book. There are a few different ways to accomplish this. One easy method is to use a purchased photo book \u2014 one with a black cover and clear sleeves for you to easily insert your own printed photos. If you go with this option, make sure your book has no spiral bindings or rings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The purchased photo sleeve book used to be the easiest and most affordable option to create a quick look book. However, today it&#8217;s easier and more affordable than ever to have a portfolio book professionally printed. Printing a photo book for your portfolio will give you a competitive edge and show that you are serious about your modeling career.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Print a Photo Book<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>To print a photo book, all you need is an internet connection and some digital photos. You can create an account for free at <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printique.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Printique<\/a> and get started curating your personal look book quickly and easily. Once you are all signed up, choose a book size and style that complies with modeling industry guidelines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whether you assemble the book yourself or have it printed, industry standards dictate that the book should be 9&#215;12 inches. Slightly smaller or larger than this is usually acceptable, but don&#8217;t stray too far with an odd size or unusual presentation. The cover must be black, and the pages should be easy to flip through, with no ring bindings. Make sure the photos you use are high-quality images. If you are using a professional photographer, this should not be an issue.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Choose your images carefully for best quality, too. Ask friends, family, and your photographer for opinions. The standard is 20 pages for 40 photos, but less is fine, especially when starting out. Not every agency will flip through each page. Be sure to put your best photos toward the front of your book.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Templates for Photo Books<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p>Printique has several professional-looking book layouts that are perfect for modeling portfolios. The clean-lined <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printique.com\/app\/products\/books\/themes\/All-Photo-Books\/Agency-Portfolio\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Agency Portfolio<\/a> was specially designed for this purpose. It works especially well if you have a good mix of horizontal and vertical images. If your collection focuses on vertical images, check out the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.printique.com\/app\/products\/books\/themes\/All-Photo-Books\/Portraits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Portraits photo book template<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you&#8217;ve chosen your book template, start importing your photos. You can use the AdoramaPix auto-fill feature to quickly get your photos onto the pages of your book. You can always change them around as many times as you need to get it right. Experiment with different layouts and arrangements of the photos until you arrive at an overall design you like.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Preview your book and fix any errors that may crop up. When you are ready, you can enter your shipping and billing information and place your order. Creating a professional portfolio yourself is that easy! Your book will be printed and shipped to you, fully ready to submit to modeling agencies. Later on, if you need to update your portfolio with new photos, it&#8217;s even easier to switch out a few photos and print an updated version.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Create an online modeling portfolio<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52193\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_185622713.jpg\" alt=\"agent looking at an online modeling portfolio\" class=\"wp-image-52193\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_185622713.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_185622713-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As we all know, social media\u2014or the Internet, actually\u2014is where much of the action is. Many of today\u2019s aspiring freelance models actually set up modeling accounts on Facebook and Instagram. It&#8217;s easier for more people to find them there than on a personal website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For more professional results, it\u2019s still advisable to create your own modeling website and simply plug a link into your social media accounts. This way, you can truly be in control of how your page looks like. You can seek the services of a good web designer to create your portfolio website. You can also do it on your own by customizing a free website template.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Don\u2019t forget to include a profile page<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52190\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_70374058.jpg\" alt=\"measuring the waist of a fashion model\" class=\"wp-image-52190\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_70374058.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_70374058-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As part of your creative modeling \u201cresume,\u201d you should never forget to include your information, work you\u2019re willing to do, as well as any related acting and modeling experience, hobbies, talents, and interests\u2014both on your printed portfolio and your online modeling portfolio on your \u201cAbout Me\u201d page. Usual key measurements and data you\u2019ll need to include are:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>Age<\/li><li>Height<\/li><li>Body measurements and sizes<\/li><li>Eye Color<\/li><li>Hair Color<\/li><li>Distinguishing Features (freckles, birthmarks, tattoos, etc.)<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>You can simply list them down or be creative with your layout, as long as they are easy to read and locate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Regularly update your portfolio<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52186\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_705521701.jpg\" alt=\"model featured in a magazine\" class=\"wp-image-52186\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_705521701.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_705521701-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>As you age, it\u2019s important that you update your portfolio with newer photos and more recent work experience. At the same time, have new photos taken every once in a while to show how you are able to keep up with the latest trends in fashion and hairstyling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you happen to get featured in any print material, make sure to include those clippings or screenshots in your clear book (as long as you don\u2019t end up making your portfolio too bulky) and have them scanned for your model portfolio website.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Maintain your look<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image size-full wp-image-52180\"><figure class=\"aligncenter\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"900\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_242984920.jpg\" alt=\"closeup of beautiful brunette model\" class=\"wp-image-52180\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_242984920.jpg 900w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/09\/shutterstock_242984920-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px\" \/><figcaption>Image via Shutterstock<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>Once you get hired by an agency, you will be told to avoid making drastic changes to your appearance. After all, they\u2019re pitching your current look to advertisers and other potential clients. This means you can\u2019t cut your hair, change your hair color, have any sort of plastic or cosmetic surgery, or get any tattoos without their approval. In most cases, female models are also not allowed to get pregnant throughout the duration of their contract.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Don\u2019t worry\u2014these should all be included in your contract and you won\u2019t be forced to sign it if you\u2019re not comfortable with any of the terms. Invest your time and effort in making sure you look your best, even when you\u2019re not in front of the camera.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/female-model-outside-stairs-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"female model outside\" class=\"wp-image-83184\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/female-model-outside-stairs-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/female-model-outside-stairs-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/female-model-outside-stairs.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption>Photo by Tai&#8217;s Captures on Unsplash<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Modeling Portfolio: What Else You Need to Know<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should be in a modeling portfolio?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A modeling portfolio is an essential tool to help you land dream clients; that\u2019s why you should take your model website and portfolio seriously. Perhaps the most important element here? Making sure you have the right variety of between 10 to 20 images. That includes headshots (smiling and not smiling), full-length shots, three-quarter-length shots, with a number of different poses to show your versatility. Of course, these images should look as professional as possible. It\u2019s important to work with a top-notch photographer who has proper gear and a background in the craft. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>While most models use a website to showcase their modeling portfolio these days, it\u2019s also wise to have a polished print portfolio to share for in-person potential-client meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How much does a modeling portfolio cost?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Like budgeting for any type of creative project, the price of your modeling portfolio or model website depends. But, you can typically expect to spend somewhere between $500 to $2,000+ dollars, depending on the photographer you use and the price that goes in to building your website and\/or physical portfolio.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How do I make a good portfolio?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Nailing a good modeling portfolio really begins with the photographer you choose. You don\u2019t necessarily need the most high-end photographer\u2014especially at the beginning of career\u2014but you do need to make sure the photographer you work with has a solid resume, past work that resembles the kind of work you hope to do, and is trained enough to help you get into the best and most flattering poses. (Look at their past clips to determine if they meet this criteria.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Another way to create a strong modeling portfolio? Prioritize variety. Showcase your versatility as a model with between 10 to 20 top shots\u2014that includes portraits, full-body shots, and more. Last thing: Try to add a bit of personality so potential clients see what makes you stand out from the other models they may be evaluating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How many photos should a modeling portfolio have?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>There is no exact number of photos a modeling portfolio should have, but experts say a good rule of thumb is between 10 to 20 images. This gives you the chance to showcase your versatility as a model with portraits and full-length shots. But it also isn\u2019t too much; go well beyond this range and you risk your potential client losing interest.\u2003<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Starting a career in modeling can be very challenging, more so if you don\u2019t have anything to show off to potential agents and advertisers. Fortunately, creating your own modeling portfolio is pretty easy. With the following steps, you can significantly improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":178,"featured_media":83186,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[10714,10715,17770,17780],"tags":[14502,11729,1018],"class_list":["post-52179","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-features","category-photo-features","category-photography","category-photography-tips","tag-model-portfolio","tag-model-shot","tag-modeling-1018"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.3 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>How to Build a Modeling Portfolio<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"Adorama\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/adorama\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1200\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"695\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"*Enter New Author\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@adorama\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@adorama\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"*Enter New Author\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"15 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"*Enter New Author\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/c879a8df0773aca91919d7eb9d592db4\"},\"headline\":\"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/\"},\"wordCount\":2617,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2018\\\/10\\\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg\",\"keywords\":[\"model portfolio\",\"model shot\",\"modeling\"],\"articleSection\":[\"Features\",\"Photo\",\"Photography\",\"Photography Tips\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"WebPage\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/\",\"name\":\"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2018\\\/10\\\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg\",\"datePublished\":\"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00\",\"description\":\"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#breadcrumb\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2018\\\/10\\\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2018\\\/10\\\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg\",\"width\":1165,\"height\":675,\"caption\":\"Photo by Ilya Pavlov on Unsplash\"},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\\\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Features\",\"item\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/category\\\/features\\\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":3,\"name\":\"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/\",\"name\":\"Adorama\",\"description\":\"Your destination for photography, video, audio, drones, electronics, computers, and more!\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#organization\",\"name\":\"42 West, the Adorama Learning Center\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2019\\\/10\\\/42-West-Logo-Blue.png\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/wp-content\\\/uploads\\\/2019\\\/10\\\/42-West-Logo-Blue.png\",\"width\":870,\"height\":252,\"caption\":\"42 West, the Adorama Learning Center\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/logo\\\/image\\\/\"},\"sameAs\":[\"http:\\\/\\\/www.facebook.com\\\/adorama\",\"https:\\\/\\\/x.com\\\/adorama\",\"http:\\\/\\\/www.instagram.com\\\/adorama\",\"http:\\\/\\\/www.pinterest.com\\\/adorama\",\"http:\\\/\\\/www.youtube.com\\\/adorama\"]},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/c879a8df0773aca91919d7eb9d592db4\",\"name\":\"*Enter New Author\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\\\/\\\/secure.gravatar.com\\\/avatar\\\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"*Enter New Author\"},\"url\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.adorama.com\\\/alc\\\/author\\\/*Enter New Author\\\/\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio","description":"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio","og_description":"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.","og_url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/","og_site_name":"Adorama","article_publisher":"http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/adorama","article_published_time":"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00","article_modified_time":"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1200,"height":695,"url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature.jpg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"*Enter New Author","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_creator":"@adorama","twitter_site":"@adorama","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"*Enter New Author","Est. reading time":"15 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/"},"author":{"name":"*Enter New Author","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#\/schema\/person\/c879a8df0773aca91919d7eb9d592db4"},"headline":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio","datePublished":"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00","dateModified":"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/"},"wordCount":2617,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg","keywords":["model portfolio","model shot","modeling"],"articleSection":["Features","Photo","Photography","Photography Tips"],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"WebPage","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/","url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/","name":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg","datePublished":"2018-10-10T13:00:14+00:00","dateModified":"2022-05-06T17:03:07+00:00","description":"With these steps, you can improve your chances of getting noticed and bagging the first few gigs that will kickstart your modeling career.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#breadcrumb"},"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/10\/model-modeling-portfolio-feature-e1760628628851.jpg","width":1165,"height":675,"caption":"Photo by Ilya Pavlov on Unsplash"},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/how-to-build-a-modeling-portfolio\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Features","item":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/category\/features\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":3,"name":"How to Build a Modeling Portfolio"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#website","url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/","name":"Adorama","description":"Your destination for photography, video, audio, drones, electronics, computers, and more!","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#organization","name":"42 West, the Adorama Learning Center","url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/42-West-Logo-Blue.png","contentUrl":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/42-West-Logo-Blue.png","width":870,"height":252,"caption":"42 West, the Adorama Learning Center"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"},"sameAs":["http:\/\/www.facebook.com\/adorama","https:\/\/x.com\/adorama","http:\/\/www.instagram.com\/adorama","http:\/\/www.pinterest.com\/adorama","http:\/\/www.youtube.com\/adorama"]},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/#\/schema\/person\/c879a8df0773aca91919d7eb9d592db4","name":"*Enter New Author","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/f10c9c6b10564f3effff919114c88ad675b8199da79d9f99226b98f4bbf1e6be?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"*Enter New Author"},"url":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/author\/*Enter New Author\/"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52179","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/178"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=52179"}],"version-history":[{"count":7,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52179\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":83188,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/52179\/revisions\/83188"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/83186"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=52179"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=52179"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.adorama.com\/alc\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=52179"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}