Headshot/Modeling  Information

Initial Meeting: Before I do a photo shoot I like to meet my clients first.  Having a consultation will give us a chance to discuss what type of photographs you are looking for and talk about your specific needs and concerns you may have. I want you to be very comfortable and relaxed on the day of the photo shoot.

Hair & Make up: I work with professionals who know how to make you look your best. Hair and make-up generally cost between $125 and $150.

The Photo Shoot: As your photographer, I will capture at least 3 looks to provide you a variety of photos to choose from. Extreme darks, lights and solid colors photograph the best. Stay away from any type of clothing that will draw attention away from your face.

After the Photo Shoot:  We will sit down and take a look at all of your pictures. We will also decide on your top 5 pictures that will help create your comp cards and headshots.

Model Prep List

• Build an idea file for posing by cutting out pictures from your favorite magazines and catalogs.  Practice posing in front of the mirror and pay attention to the placement of your hands, positioning of your legs, facial expressions, and posture.

• Make sure you get enough rest and a good night sleep the day before the photo shoot.  

• Have your brows professionally shaped and maintain by plucking the strays every few days. . 

• Bring water (essential for healthy skin) and snacks (fruits and nuts are best).

• Button up blouses and dresses are a plus.

• Bring a friend or family member (no boyfriends or spouses, please).  They may be asked to assist the photographer during the photo shoot.

What is a Modeling Portfolio?
A modeling portfolio is a model's basic promotional tool consisting of an album showing the best photos. At the beginning of your fashion modeling career, your portfolio should include: At least two head shots with two different expressions (one smiling and one serious, or one in the studio and one outdoors). A body shot (conservative swimsuit or lingerie), a fashion shot (sexy), action shot, an editorial shot and even a catalogue shot. Avoid using two pictures of the same shoot (same look). As you gain experience replace the older pictures with newer one. Keep your best picture at the end to leave a lasting impression! Do not wear jewelry because it takes the attention away from you. Tailor your portfolio for your strengths and the type of modeling you are doing. If at all possible, your portfolio should be appropriate to the situation and reviewer, and all portfolios should show creativity, skills, range, thought, and ambition.

What Makes a Great Headshot?

There are a number of elements that help to create eye- catching representations. A great shot requires more than being well lit and in focus. The model’s essence must be captured in order to be truly effective. When looking at a headshot, pay special attention to the eyes, and ask yourself if you feel a special connection to the person in the photo. The best shots are intriguing, relaxed, confident and spontaneous

What is a Comp Card or Zed Card?

A composite card (sometimes called a ZED) is a model's business card. In most cases, your comp card is your one and only opportunity to make a good first impression.

It’s a card, around 5” x 8” in size, printed on both sides.  The front side of the card is usually the models’ headshot along with the model’s name and agency logo.  The backside of the comp card usually has multiple shots of the model, usually four in number. Show a wide range of expressions.  The client might not need a smiling person.  Maybe you’ll need to look sexy, or concerned, or surprised

Show some skin.  Sometimes the client needs to know what you body looks like.  Nothing ticks off a client like having a model show up that isn’t what they expected.  If you sow some skin on the comp card, they’ll know what they’re buying.  If you have a six-pack, show it off.  A word of warning though…  Don’t get carried away.  If you look too sexy, it turns a lit of people off.  They wonder just what kind of modeling you do…  If you know what I mean

Have at least one of the shots be full body.  Clients like to see the proportion of the person.  Again, it’s about information.  Do you “look” tall?  Do you “look” short, or maybe even look normal?  They want to know