Though the initial headshot photos in your Models Direct registration must be simple and show off your best features, you have the licence to experiment with photos in your personal portfolio. All photos must be clear and relevant, but you add a little variety and spice to your portfolios. They are what brands will see (and hopefully take notice of) when we put suitable models forward for jobs. Portfolios are creative and vital in equal measure.
Spring allows this creativity to shine even more in your modelling portfolios. Use it to your advantage and wow the clients who’ll view your new photos.
Here are six simple ideas to help you spruce up your portfolio in the spring months.
1. Plan and study the sun rises / set times. Glaring sun is not your friend for outdoor photos. Instead, venture outside mid-morning / evening to prevent sun glare.
2. Wear neutral colours erring on the side of caution. It’s more effective to wear pale “bright” colours than flashy or fluorescent colours that repels the viewer. Baby blues, mellow yellows and pastoral greens are perfect.
3. Search for the most spectacular backgrounds. Moorlands, beaches and meadows are perfect because their serenity will be captured even though you’ll be the centrepiece of the image. Woodlands and forests also make effective backdrops but be wary of including too much that’ll distract you as the star of the photo, such as heavy foliage.
4. To many people, flowers initiate feelings of comfort, serenity and romance. Spring epitomises the emergence of beautiful plants such as daffodils, tulips and bluebells. If you’re taking snaps with these natural beauties in the background, make sure they are in focus otherwise you’ll have a wall of blurred colour, which is both off putting and ambiguous.
5. Spring time is water time! If you’re lucky enough to live near lakes, rivers, waterfalls or even accessible reservoirs, take pictures of yourself sitting on a riverbank, or of you dipping your toes in the cool waters. Let the water invoke calmness and see where the mood takes you.
6. Experiment! There are few limitations on portfolio photos, and you don’t have to upload every photo you take. But remember – a bad photo is more harmful than a handful of good ones, so put yourself in the shoes of a client and be picky.
It’s easy to be so enthusiastic about updating your Models Direct portfolio that the basics of finding the best shots go out of the window. If you think it isn’t the best day to capture the best outdoor photos, leave it for another day. Use your time wisely. The UK weather can be frustratingly inconsistent, but there are always glorious days to look forward to.
When you’re happy with your spring photos, please update your portfolio and we’re sure our clients will enjoy seeing them just as much as you’ve enjoyed taking them.
