Thinking Of Booking a Model Portfolio Shoot?
If you, or anyone you know, are just starting your modelling journey: Don’t worry about getting professional images!
Or, at least, not straight away.
You’d think that this is the last thing a professional photographer would be advising you to do, but I absolutely believe in giving people the best advice.
➡One of the most common mistakes people make when wanting to submit images to a modelling agency, to be considered for their books, is the misconception that you must send them professionally photographed headshots on your first contact.
WHAT DO AGENCIES NEED FROM ASPIRING MODELS?
The first images sent to a modelling agency can (and should) be taken as selfies, preferably outside, or in well lit areas..
Think the “natural look”!
Importantly = No filters & no make up.
I realise that this idea makes many people super uncomfortable, but that barrier needs to be overcome in order to succeed in the modelling world.
➡Anyone wanting to be a model cannot be uncomfortable (or unable to manage that discomfort) in front of the camera, with our without make up!
Agencies want to see the real you.
The blank canvas.
They want to be able to see the person, and to know whether your looks are right for them.
This is why sending them images which show you after a makeover, all dressed up, will not work.
➡In summary: At the beginning of your journey, it is not necessary for you to spend money on a professional portfolio to send to agencies.
➡Always Remember This: If you are not successful at your first attempts, it does not mean you are not good enough!
➡It simply means that you are not what that agency’s brand is looking for, but there will be an agency which thinks you are absolutely perfect!
➡Just think of all the adverts in magazines and on tv, and how many models and actors with different looks, shapes and ethnicities get work - so don’t be disheartened.
WHEN TO HAVE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTO SHOOT FOR A MODEL PORTFOLIO
Once you are accepted by a modelling agency, they will ask you to have a professional portfolio photographed.
This is because when they send you to casting sessions with their clients, you will need to be able to present your likeness at its best, in a professional way.
I do not know whether an agency will help fund the portfolio photo shoot, or if you will need to fund it all from your own pocket, but I’d say it is worth asking.
Some agencies may well have their own in-house photographer to create a professional portfolio for their models.
And once you start to get jobs you will definitely be able to put together a much larger portfolio of work, from shoots you got paid for!
DOES THIS ADVICE APPLY TO ACTOR HEADSHOTS?
In my experience acting headshots are a slightly different proposition.
For actors the photos are more like a business card, and can be printed with the person’s physical particulars, job experience, preferred roles, etc - and an actor’s appearance is mainly relevant when going for specific jobs which will require a certain look.
Therefore, if you are an aspiring actor, having a professional headshot session prior to sending out your details to casting agencies is highly advisable.
I am not suggesting that selfies will not work, but casting agencies will probably prefer something professional they can send to their clients.
➡My final advice would be to ask not only at the agencies but also ask other actors who’d have been through the process, already.
AND FINALLY…
Two things to be mindful when approaching modelling or casting agencies:
Do not part with any money to be put in their books! A genuine, and above board, agency never charges models/actors to have them in their books. Genuine agencies charge their clients to put models forward. This is a huge red flag, so please be careful…
Agencies should not be demanding that you use a particular photographer for your portfolio. This is another red flag! You should have the final say in who you hire to photograph you, at that stage.
I do hope that my advice has helped if you or a loved one are currently considering embarking on a modelling or acting career, and I wish you/them the best of luck!
And yes, when the time is right I do have Professional Portfolio Packages for models and actors, so get in touch and I will be happy to help.
