Creating a modelling portfolio with LUXE Models

Your modelling portfolio is an essential marketing tool for both full professional and inexperienced models.

It's the first impression you give out, and is your best chance to break into the modelling industry. The purpose of a model’s portfolio is to showcase your ability and talent as a model, demonstrating a wide range of looks, poses, and experience, as well as showing clients that you are photogenic.

LUXE Models specialise in providing a platform for up and coming models, and believe in the importance of having between seven and 10 of your best shots to show your range of modelling abilities and 'looks'. 

Building your portfolio

We understand that most aspiring models tend to work on a tight budget, and paying for a professional photographer may seem excessive. But it's definitely worth it if you are trying to build an effective, killer portfolio to beat your rivals to a contract. Investing in a fashion photographer could be the best thing you do when it comes to setting up your first portfolio. 

Ask the photographer who will provide the hair and makeup artist; you or them. LUXE Models suggest having these services no matter who provides them. No matter what style and colour of makeup you think makes you look best, you should vary depending on hairstyle and outfit for versatility.

Don’t be locked into one look; ask the photographer if he or she provides retouching or airbrushing services. You'll need a good selection of different looks in your portfolio, so try:

• Some photos shot indoors in a studio setting
• Some outdoors in different locations 
• Shots that can be considered fashion, casual, editorial, and commercial.
• High-fashion, sporty, sexy and casual styles are only a few of the looks that a model display
• A good head shot
• A natural look
• A good body shot

Wardrobe

When selecting clothing, select versatile items to show off different looks. It's good to wear tight fitting clothing or swim wear, especially if you plan to apply to the plus size model markets. These plus size agencies like to see exactly what they are getting when they view your photos.

             

It’s always better to stick with traditional clothing. Look for fashions that fit your body type. Stay away from clothes with visible labels as your portfolio is about you as a model and not the designers and labels you prefer. You need to display versatility and be happy to model a variety of clothing. Knee-length or slightly shorter skirts, button-down blouses and plain slacks are basically timeless when it comes to clothing, so are always a good bet for some of your casual shots. 

A plain pair of shorts and a tank top is a great option and never goes out of style. Jeans and T-shirts remain to be a sporty fashion trend throughout the years. Always wear solid colours. Nothing detracts from your face or figure more than clothes covered in busy patterns and prints.

Do your homework

Look through fashion magazines and clothes catalogues and find poses you like. Practice in front of a mirror until you’ve got it right.

A portfolio shoot is a team effort. Always feel that you can make suggestions about posing and makeup, but make sure you are not confident taking over the shoot!

Remember, you are working with professionals. Both the model and photographer should work together to achieve the best possible portfolio images possible.

Find out how to prepare for a portfolio shoot with LUXE Models before you attend and we can help you break into modelling!