Make Your Mark: 10 Essential Tips for Your Modelling e-Portfolio

Your modelling e-portfolio offers you the opportunity to shine and you need to do all you can to ensure you stand out.

This is what we look at when we are shortlisting models of a particular description for a specific assignment.

Apply to be a model

Once we have done this, our clients consider the e-portfolios of the models we have offered them and they make the final choice as to who they would like.

Each of our male, female, child and pet models has an e-portfolio and it is the responsibility of the model (or their parent or owner!) to ensure it is kept up to date.

The photos on the e-portfolio need to be recent so we and our clients have a good idea of what the model looks like.

Here are our top photo tips for your modelling e-portfolio:

1 Your pictures do not have to be taken by a professional but they must be sharp, well framed and taken against a simple background. You can ask a friend or family member to take them for you on a digital camera or phone. Our advice is to take lots of photos and then select the very best ones.

2 Ensure we can see your face clearly and that your personality really shows through. We love to see big smiles, twinkly eyes and friendly faces. Do not wear a hat or have your hair long if it obscures parts of your face.

3 Think about what you are wearing in your modelling photos. Choose colours that complement your skin and hair. Consider wearing a seasonal outfit to ensure your pictures feel relevant and up to date.

4 Think about the backgrounds of your photographs. If possible, choose locations that are interesting but not too busy. For example, for spring shots think leafy, green settings or in the summer take some pictures on the beach if you happen to be there.

5 Have fun with your photography and be creative with your outfits. When we can see you are enjoying yourself, that special something will often shine through and help you to stand out from the crowd.

Hire a model

6 If you have very individual features, such as freckles or a beauty spot, don’t try to hide them – Models Direct celebrates its models’ differences and our clients often like to choose people who are clearly comfortable being who they really are.

7 Try to take a new set of photographs every few months. With babies and children, this is especially important as they grow and change so quickly. If we log in and can tell you have recently added new pictures then we will feel much more confident in putting you forward for a job.

8 Don’t forget to add any photographs from any modelling assignments you have completed. We and our clients love to see what you have done before and these images will add depth to your e-portfolio.

9 Remember, still photographs aren’t the only option. Why not consider making a showreel as well? Then we can see how you perform in moving film. This could result in more modelling or acting opportunities.

10 Ask a friend or family member to look at your e-portfolio every so often. Ask them for their advice on how you could spice up your photos and enhance the way you have presented yourself.