Clients will book a model for his or her ability
to sell their products, services, or ideas, based on his or
her "look" and ability to convey the client's exact
message. A model's portfolio is what showcases and helps to
"sell" his or her abilities and appearance.
A portfolio is a collection of tearsheets
(samples of print work in which the model's image has been used)
and professionally photographed images of the model in a variety
of "looks" - or outfits, settings, and moods. A modeling
or talent agency will ask to look at this collection of promotional
material when deciding if or how they will market you. The portfolio
also provides the images for composite cards (also known as
"comps"), which are the "buisness cards"
of professional models.
When building your portfolio, VARIETY is the
key. The most common "looks" include formal, business,
casual, fitness, and swimwear. The other "looks" will
depend on what kind of market you are most interested in, and
what you best represent. Personalize your portfolio with "looks"
that are unique to your interests, and let your personality
shine through! Or, to reflect your versatility, creativity,
and dramatic ability, have a photoshoot that will capture you
in outfits and settings completely unusual to you. The "variety
emphasis" also applies to your hairstyle, poses, facial
expressions, and the colors you wear.
Whether your portfolio emphasizes "the
best of the REAL you" or the many different personnas you
are able to portray, the final collection should reflect that
you are, indeed, that model who can deliver!
