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Sandra Omo on the power of an impressive portfolio
I have been very occupied this week with the task of adding new photos to my portfolio. Half way through the week, I realised that I was not just adding new pictures as I had set out to do, but was actually printing a completely new portfolio over again when the one I have is only six months old. How often then do models need to update our portfolios? I reckon as often as we can – if we feel our looks have improved, or if there is a particular image we would like to portray.
Getting professional modelling photos can be very expensive. However, do not be tempted to think that going to one of those high street studios is cheaper, because they are not. Secondly, the pictures you get – although they may be beautiful – are not up to the standard required for modelling. You get turned down immediately when you present them at castings. I, and countless models, have experienced this. How then can you get professional modelling photos without paying through your teeth?
Well, one way to get great photos that do not cost the earth – or better still, for free – is by doing TFCD (‘time for CD’) shoots. There are a lot of photographers out there that require models for projects, who can’t afford to pay for models, but are happy to swap your time for photos for your portfolio. You will get all the photos from the shoot on CD, but may be asked to pay a fee for prints if you want.
In addition, you should automatically get photos from the jobs you do, weather they are editorial or high fashion. Make sure you pose for lots of photos, as not all will be portfolio material.
“The best way to get professional photos is to have an array of good photographers as friends”
The best way to get professional photos is to have an array of good photographers as friends. These can be photographers you have previously worked with or, if you are lucky, photographers who just like your look and are willing to work with you. I have so many photographers as friends, but I was very glad when I received a call from Diana Frangi last month about her willingness to work with me on shooting photos for my columns. Boy, it is a big catch to have her in my bag of photographers. She is an amazingly talented photographer and composer who has worked with big names in the entertainment industry, and has composed sound tracks for series like CSI Miami.
The importance of a model’s portfolio can never be over-emphasised. Apart from your name (this comes into play only when you are famous), your portfolio is the only thing that speaks for you, and the only weapon you have for getting work. I have always believed that a model’s portfolio should be more beautiful, professional, and even more able than the model. People should see your pictures and not believe it is you. When your pictures reach this stage, then you know you have the ‘it’ portfolio.
So knowing that this is the only fuel that keeps your career going, you must always have it topped-up. The most successful of models still do this on a regular basis. Even if you have reached the stage where you are too successful to need a portfolio – like Naomi, Heidi, Gisele, etc – you still need to keep your name, which now acts like your portfolio, constantly out there if you want to remain in the business.
Although I have just printed a brand new portfolio, I can still see me changing or adding at least one new photo to my portfolio each month. This updating never ceases.
