The Truth About Model Photography

Models don't need expensive pictures. Here's what a model portfolio should include.

Setting up a professional studio shot: A camera with a mounted flash is focused on creating the perfect image, highlighting its role in crafting a standout model portfolio.

A model’s résumé is their portfolio, but there’s a lot of incorrect information online regarding what is required. Here is the truth that models really need to know about photography.

Expensive photography is not required

Many many times models will attend an over glamorize photo shoot and spend thousands of dollars on photography. Not only is this a waste of your money, most legit modeling agencies will never use those photographs. A normal photo shoot will cost a model usually under $1,000 in any market.

Not all photographers are the same

Photography is an art and just like every model has unique features, photographers have unique styles. If you are a commercial model, you want to focus on commercial headshots, whereas being an editorial model, you need to focus on high fashion. Work with reputable photographers that specialize in the market you’re trying to break into. Studio that require advanced deposits are a red-flag, as are photographs who do not have working website or phone number.

If an agent recommends a photographer, it’s for a good reason.

A lot of times new models think that getting photographs or being required to get photographs from a specific photographer that your agency recommends is a red flag. That is incorrect (sometimes). A model is a product and an agency knows how to best represent that product. If an agency recommends a photographer, it’s usually because they have placed trust in the photographers work. While it should never be a requirement to shoot with a specific photographer you should strongly take into consideration the recommendations, your agency gives you.

Digitals are just fine

Digitals, also referred to you as Polaroids back in the 1990s, are basic photographs of what you would look like at any given time. They are often styled in a solid color top with a pair of jeans or leggings. A white background is typically used. Most New York modeling agencies will specifically require you to send them in digitals. Surprisingly, most modeling agencies will not accept professional or styled photograph photographs. Just look at websites from top agencies like TOWN Models, Click Models and DNA Models - they all ask for non-professional photographs.

Avoid flashy clothing

Many people get excited about modeling and want to showcase fancy clothing in their pictures. This is an amateur mistake. A reputable modeling agency do not want to see you styles in your best Easter Sunday outfit (unless you were paid to advertise it) they want to see what you look like. Avoid flashy clothing and logos in your pictures.

Use reputable photographers

As we discussed, not all photographers are the same. Working with reputable studios, especially ones that specialize in model photography, can make all the difference in getting noticed. Latitude Talent Studios is a great studio for models to use to break into the modeling business in New York. Other great photo studios in NYC include Love Studios as well.