Photographer
Julia Borodina

Model Portfolio Essentials

Building a strong model portfolio is crucial, but what exactly should it include to effectively showcase your range and skills? Here's what you need:

• Polaroids and Simple Looks: Start with 3-4 basic shots, including polaroids or photos with minimal makeup and styling. These are essential to show your natural appearance clearly.

• Versatile Test Shots: Include various test photos to demonstrate how you perform in front of the camera with different styles, makeup, and poses. These shots highlight your versatility and adaptability.

• Editorial Work: If possible, add editorial images. These are great for showing your experience in more creative and story-driven settings.

• Tailored to Your Market: The style of photos in your portfolio should reflect the market you are targeting. Are you aiming for high fashion or commercial gigs? Your images should align with this focus.

• Regular Updates: For child models, update the portfolio at least once a year due to rapid changes in appearance. Adults should update their portfolio whenever they make significant changes to their look, like a new hairstyle or body shape change.

Investing in your portfolio is investing in your career. High-quality, professional images make a statement that you’re serious about your modeling work. A well-crafted portfolio not only shows you're a pro but also significantly improves your chances of landing better opportunities.