Q&A for How to Build a Modeling Portfolio

Keep it simple! People tend to overcomplicate things while planning out their portfolio. You just need simple, pretty photos of yourself captured in good lighting without any filters.

Definitely include a beauty headshot, which is just a pretty photo of you from the shoulders up. Don't wear too much makeup for this shot, and keep your hair down. Also, include a full-length shot in your portfolio.

Do it yourself or get a friend or family member to help. You can take pictures and use those.

Yes! You can be a freelance model and set bookings up yourself without the assistance of an agency. You can also sign on with an agency that is nowhere near you. As long as you are able to travel to shoots, the agency shouldn't care where you live.

Getting a modelling job is tricky enough, so a portfolio is recommended to give the agency an idea of who you are and how you model.

Not at all, modelling can be done probably for your whole life, even in your 80s. There are lot of shoots happening in the market every day and they all need models of all sorts to represent real people for prints, catalogues and advertises. However, if you're aiming for high end fashion, catwalk and fashion shows, the age range tends to be 16 to 32-ish. Of course, there are always exceptions for the beautifully endowed and the brilliant personalities.

Do your research first. You may apply to different agencies online - just be careful as modeling is a risky job with a lot of people who will claim to be who they actually aren't. Take someone with you for your first few times, as you never know what to expect. Hire a professional photographer to arrange a portfolio, then you can start thinking about showing them to different agencies.

You can be a petite model.

You can find companies looking for petite models down to 4'9. Typically petite models are under 5'7, and you can do well even at 5'3.

It would be ideal, so they can see your range and how you look in all these different contexts.

Yes, you could be an Asian model and your height is fine. If you have a well toned body and a suitable personality, and if you know how to carry yourself, you can apply for prints, catalogues, magazines, and advertisements.

Yes, but glasses can be tricky sometimes. Keep it classy, not flashy. In my portfolio I have photos with sunglasses on, and I really like how they turned out. Make sure to get some pictures without glasses too.

Yes, it's fine. Many people have the same thing and can be your trademark. Otherwise, if you don't like it, speak to your parents about getting braces.

Your height and age are both fine. Many people model and work out at the same time, however, it would be good to be toned out before starting your career, kind of like a foundation. You should appear as fit and healthy, but not necessarily muscular.

They will probably contact you, since they should have your information. They will discuss the details with you, and you will most likely sign a contract with them. Then they will find you some work.

Agents are everywhere. Finding a reputable one is the key. Do your research online and by asking questions to their clients, both current and former.

Of course you can. Ever hear of Iman? Naomi Campbell?

You could wear them in a couple of shots, but not all of them. The person looking at your portfolio will want to see your eyes.

Contact a modeling agency that specializes in teen modeling.

Yes, you may become a model. Runway models are typically taller, but there are all sorts of modeling opportunities for shorter people.

Being a model isn't always about having a fit body; it's about being photogenic and comfortable around the camera. It is good to have a great body, and you don't need to have thin legs to become a model.

Help him create a portfolio and send it to a scouting site. There are also agencies that will help you for a fee.

There are no height or weight requirements. While being tall and slender may help land gigs, companies seek out models of all body types.

Boutiques. You can model for grand opening boutiques, or simply for their online catalog. From their go to worldwide retailers such as Macy's JC Penney's, and other department stores.

The cost ranges from $50 to $200 to be part of a agency and its database. Look for agencies that are known and have been successful.

No, because your portfolio is about you. Other people in the picture would be a distraction, and might steal focus from you.

Commercial print modelling might be an option for you, as they look for a wider range of heights.

It doesn't matter! Agencies appreciate and sometimes even seek out diversity. Embrace what makes you unique!

Yes, you can still be a model. You can do live modeling, fashion modeling, and even commercial print modeling.

Yes, most industries love curves. As long as you have a well-proportioned torso you're good to go!