Modeling Portfolios and Headshots
Get a Killer Headshot
I can’t stress enough how important this step is! You’ll want to take the time (and money) to ensure that your kids are getting the best headshots possible. A lot of this relies on the photographer you select and a lot also relies on your preparation. Headshot photos should be printed 8 x 10 and focus on shoulders upward. Makeup is usually unnecessary and you’ll want to keep hairstyles and clothes simple and streamlined. This is not the time to try out a new hair accessory! Your kids are naturally beautiful and full of vibrant personality, you want to make sure their headshot reflects who they are.
Your main headshot needs to be as natural as possible. No curls—that’s so five years ago. No makeup, no crazy clothes. Just you. The perfect, real you. Looking straight into the camera with a neutral expression. Strong, captivating eyes, simple clothes, nice hair and great connection with the camera—that’s all you need!
Note: Kids grow and change so much and so fast! Agencies do understand that it’s nearly impossible to keep up with growth spurts. As long as there aren’t any major changes, don’t sweat on booking new headshots for your child’s modeling portfolio every year.
Add Full-Length Shots
One thing I’ve found that most clients look for is at least one full-length body shot in addition to a headshot. Not only does it give more perspective into your kid’s personality, but it’s also an opportunity for clients to see stance, posture and general body proportion. W elike to include a few of these in different looks—maybe a formal and casual outfit—to show a range. Try to stick to six to 12 photos for the portfolio and be aware of agency requirements!
“Cool, modern image in simple clothes. Something that will give the client a good idea of your shape. No big logos, patterns, jackets etc. “Your pose should also have a little bit of attitude. Show your edge! Most kid’s campaigns these days want the ‘cool’ kids the confident ones, full of personality, fun and edgy. Show that you are all that!”
he secret to modeling is not being perfect. What one needs is a face that people can identify in a second. You have to be given what’s needed by nature, and what’s needed is to bring something new.” ― Karl Lagerfeld
Put Together a Strong Resume
Yes, even kids need to have a resume! I guess it doesn’t hurt to start them early, right? If your kids have a few gigs under the belt, it’s worth putting together a resume to include contact information, past experiences and education. You’ll want to keep it to relevant work and update it every six months with your agency. If they haven’t had any gigs yet, consider writing a brief introduction letter to provide more insight into who they are, their skills and training. You’ll also want to include physical details like their height, weight, clothing sizes and measurements, especially if they’re doing runway or fashion ad work.
If your kids are landing editorial shoots, we recommend adding those photos to their portfolio as well. Just make sure you only work with the photographers whose style you like.
Think of modeling portfolios as a little book of your child, an extension of the wonderful person they are. We already know how amazing our kids are and your portfolio is a chance to show everyone else in the industry, too!
Models don't always get paid for shoots. Especially new models building up their experience. Many shoots compensate in trade, either with photos, clothes or exposure.
"A smart model is a good model.” ― Tyra Banks
