Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Milica Bogavac on June 29, 2011 at 12:09pm

This is a very interesting question! It seems to me that the first step - is to find a scout. I worked as a model four years ago.

Permalink Reply by Chas on October 12, 2011 at 3:23am

Okay I think I can kick in on this one, I have been a talent scout for many years, as a professional photographer I can say the first thing is getting a portfolio. Make sure they are great images; the better they are the longer you will hold on to the attention of the viewer/agent/photographer/publisher.

 

Years ago the portfolio was about 21 images, divided into the types of modeling you were aspiring to achieve. The basics of it were 8 headshots, at least 3 of them black and white.  ( black and white shows details of your complexion that color images just don’t show.) 6 images should be lifestyle/editorial images, you being you. These should be relaxed shots with the focus being you doing whatever, like setting in a mall, working out, walking in a park. If you are female these images should be light on the makeup and hair styling, if you are male make sure there is no over the top action shots that hide you no matter how cool they are.

 

The last six images should focus on the type of modeling, IE If you are looking for work on the runway all 6 would be you on the runway. If you are booking swim wear then the rest should be of you on the beach in a swimsuit, these shots are the most important to you getting a booking, so spend the money and get them done right. Hair and makeup down to shoes should be as perfect as possible and the image should say BLAM!

 

Here is the thing about portfolios, they are a good starting point, but they should be growing and changing just like the seasons. Update the images often change out images for seasonal work as well as new styles what ever is the new black it better be there. Your images are the item you use as a resume, they can get you the interview/casting call but you have to sill the deal, without one how can I or anyone else find you it is your first step.