What is a model portfolio?

[jecky55]

Hi my name is jeck, I always dreamed of becoming a model. I know I have what it takes to become that model. I’m not just beautiful on the outside I’m also beautiful on the inside. I always play dressed up with my mother and take pictures. I JUST WANT TO BECOME A MODEL
I am working on my portfolio right now.
I have no idea how to get started….HELP!!

[Ben H]

I would say - get some pictures done, then start approaching agencies.

They will give you the kind of feedback you need, and will probably be able to advise you on which side of modelling you are best suited for depending on your look.

You are probably best off targeting reasonably local agencies at first, depending on your location, to get some work and some experience.

[Marko]

I would say approach agencies but do this with your parents if you are too young and BEWARE of scams.

Most reputable modeling agencies will not charge you large sums of money to join and will NOT demand that you take pictures with THEIR photographer.

Also I hate to say this but be realistic and have a backup plan. Being a model is like being an actor. VERY few make a good living at it. Supermodels and Top actors make up less than 1-2% of working actors and models.

Also - This is a photo site and you are welcome here, but also post this question on sites or forums dedicated to modeling.

Hope that helps
Marko

[DAVIS125]

When it comes to modeling, your portfolio serves as your resume and showcases your body of work. Whether you are signed to an agency or are a freelance model, putting together your portfolio is one of the most important aspects of your career. Ask the Arizona Photographer to help you with choosing looks that best fit your personality and the type modeling you wish to pursue.

[mindforge]

A modeling portfolio comes in several forms depending on your style of modeling. I help models with the design end of their portfolios in Central California, even if I do not take the pictures I help with the graphic design of these portfolios. I got into this from a model friend that needed help but had pictures.

First, what kind of modeling to you do? It will affect the overall design focus of your portfolio. You should have 8-12 8x10 images and perhaps a couple collage pieces of single shoots. Start with a standard portfolio folder or case. Okay, a hand model or part model (legs, hand on breasts for cancer advertising, etc.) will have a different portfolio than a runway model and the portfolios need to be designed to cater to their targets.

A runway model will have large, individual runway shots. They almost always have video these days too.

A parts and advertising model might have an 8x10 shot with the ad it was used in. Showing actual ads is not always necessary though.

If you want to know more, you can always email me at info@mindforged.com.

At onemodelplace.com you can usually find someone to do TFP work. They will give you prints for your time. It is a good place to start early, you should never have to pay for your modeling portfolio. If anything, just the opposite. So, recognize scams this way. If someone offers to take pictures for your modeling portfolio it is probably a scam. You can always get TFP work. Because OMP (onemodelplace.com) is large and generally not moderated, scams find you pretty quick. Find an escort to come with you to any early photo shoots you do and if you are under 18, I would not even think about using a site like this, go to your parents.

[trhoads]

Check out http://ModelMayhem.com There are alot of photographers/models willing to help out there.

The forums there always like to refer aspiring models to:

http://www.newmodels.com/

-Tom