Seven modelling portfolio-building tips
Build a Professional Portfolio That Opens Doors
In the modelling industry, your portfolio is your most important calling card. While great photos are essential, every detail — from what you wear to how you present yourself — plays a crucial role. Here are seven professional tips to help you build a modelling portfolio that stands out to agencies and clients.
1. Clothing
Keep It Simple and Professional
Wear plain, form-fitting clothing with clean lines that show your physique clearly.
Avoid long dresses, skirts, or layers that obscure your shape. Steer clear of overly sexual, revealing, or flashy outfits — these distract from your natural form and professionalism.
Do not wear formal or themed attire like prom or wedding dresses. Think clean lines, solid colours, and timeless style.
2. Hair and Make-Up
Keep It Natural
Your headshots should show your natural beauty without heavy make-up or dramatic styling.
Agencies want to see what you really look like.
Keep your hair clean, neat, and in good condition. Book a trim or colour touch-up before your shoot if needed.
If you have long hair, photograph it both down and pulled back so scouts can see its length and versatility.
3. Nudity
Less is More - Always
Agents and scouts never want to see nudity — ever.
Even if you have a striking image, avoid anything that reveals too much skin.
Keep your portfolio professional and appropriate.
4. Backgrounds
You Are the Focus
You should be the only person in your portfolio photos.
Avoid group shots or busy environments — the focus must remain solely on you.
Choose clean, uncluttered backgrounds that don’t compete for attention.
5. Personal Stats
Your Key Measurements and Details
Your statistics help clients determine if you’re a good fit for their project.
Include your name, age, height, hair and eye colour, and key body measurements.
Women’s Measurements
Age, height, bust, waist, and hips.
Men’s Measurements
Age, height, chest, waist, jacket size, and pant length.
Note any distinguishing features such as freckles, moles, or visible tattoos.
6. Contact Information
Make It Easy to Reach You
Always include your full name, phone number, professional email address, and general location (for example, Johannesburg or Cape Town).
If you have an online portfolio, add your social media handles — especially Instagram — to make it easy for scouts to find and contact you.
7. Instagram
Your Feed Is Your Portfolio
Create a dedicated modelling account separate from your personal one.
Post clear photos that showcase your face and full body — no filters or group shots.
Treat your feed as an extension of your portfolio, with 90% of images featuring only you. Agencies frequently scout new models through Instagram, so make sure your page reflects your professional potential.
MODEL PORTFOLIO
Your modelling portfolio is your visual résumé — a powerful tool that communicates your professionalism, versatility, and marketability. Build it thoughtfully, keep it updated, and let your images speak for you.