Modeling – Studio 828 Photography

When Malana first called on me to shoot for her modeling portfolio, we had discussed what shows she as participated in and which photographers she has shot with here in Asheville. As she has just graduated from high school, she has hit the ground running! The Class of 2013 doesn’t mess around! We have put together her modeling portfolio and enrolled in school in Fort Myers at the Paul Mitchell Academy to earn her esthetician’s license. Why Fort Myers? This location includes classes not only with the hands on training in skin care but also for the business aspects. An entrepreneur after my own heart! Go get em Malana!!!

Xoxo,

Cat

PS – On a side note, when we met to shoot Malana was very quiet and shy. I must admit, I was a little nervous that it would take some coaxing to achieve our goals for her shoot. While it took a few minutes for her to warm up, when she did…Oh my Goodness! This transformation always takes me aback! It reminds me why I shoot for people, women especially. The empowerment a shoot brings for a woman at any age is almost magical. To catch that moment when she goes from shaky hands and blank face, to remembering that she IS beautiful and this time with me is an opportunity to showcase herself, her brand, her BEAUTY…I couldn’t ask for a better job. That moment when she realizes she will now have these images forever…it makes my heart smile.

Each of these images has a bit of advice on why we chose the shot and things to think about when building your modeling portfolio. Are you in Asheville & interested in building or expanding on your work? Email Cat@Studio-828.com. We’ll chat about your vision. Sounds like fun to me!

Think of ways you can bring a little glam to an otherwise boring scene. A construction site and a broken window...make it gorgeous! Think Vogue!! — Think of ways you can bring a little glam to an otherwise boring scene. A construction site and a broken window…make it gorgeous! Think Vogue!!

Your smile not only showcases how you light up when you're happy, but also that your teeth are in good health and can sell that Cover Girl look! — Your smile not only showcases how you light up when you’re happy, but also that your teeth are in good health and can sell that Cover Girl look!

Smiling in a "not so pretty" location brings the focus even moreso to the model. Work that juxtaposition! — Smiling in a “not so pretty” location brings the focus even moreso to the model. Work that juxtaposition!

Interact, even if only with yourself. This pose is timeless.

Fierce, strong poses in a portfolio showcase your versatility and grace and your age range, from teen to 20 something!

When you bring your A-game with your personality & understanding your angles, you're on the right track. Practice in the mirror! — When you bring your A-game with your personality & understanding your angles, you’re on the right track. Practice in the mirror!

smiling model in asheville — Bringing personality on set is paramount to a successful photo shoot!

casual full body portrait for modeling portfolio — Modeling agencies want to see the following with your portfolio: closeups, full & 3/4 shots as well as variety in your outfits…What can YOU sell?

A modeling portfolio should always include at least TWO headshots. One smiling & one not and BOTH images should have connection with the camera

beofre and after of a young model in asheville — Always ask for a Before & After transformation

So you want to be a model? Right on! What a FUN and rewarding endeavor! I can say that, I was on your side of the camera for years as a teen and even a little in my twenties. Believe it or not, it is fun but it can also be challenging. No really, I said challenging. No worries, the more time you spend in front of my camera, the easier it becomes. Your nerves subside, your confidence builds, you even start to have fun (Gasp!)

What kinds of images do you need to start a portfolio? It varies from agency to agency but for the beginners out there you will need headshots and full body shots. Initially, you need these images with a relatively neutral background and a very natural “look”. It is actually called the “No makeup, makeup”. I know, you’re reading this with a heavy heart, you’re ready to stand on a ladder in a 20′ gown right in the middle of a landfill with the most amazing hair and makeup ever (And when you’re ready to shoot it, I’ll be there – I LOVE editorial stuff) but no, when you are starting out keep it simple. These agencies want to see the neutrality so they can visualize your person in their clients’ concepts. You will need two outfits: a causal look with a solid tee or tank top and a pair of jeans, and something dressy that is flattering to your body shape. There is one exception to this general rule of thumb. If you have a physical talent/skill (ie. – a ballerina, aerialist, etc) it would be a good idea for you to bring your costume alongside your two neutral outfits and have your photographer shoot you in “action”.

What should your portfolio look like? Well, back in the day we carried 11×14 port cases with 8×10’s. Those days aren’t necessarily gone, but for the most part your casting will be accomplished online through a gallery with your agent.

Below I’m including a few images from a recent portfolio building session I had in Charlotte. Personally I think she did a great job! and it really gave me pause to consider how many of you out there who are considering modeling as a means to generate income, have some fun and possibly open other doors to opportunities in your career. This young woman was really sweet, followed direction very well (yes, you will need to be able to follow your photographer’s direction almost instinctually and with precision. But that will come with practice.) and we put together some really solid images to start her portfolio.

If you are considering building your modeling portfolio, please feel free to email me or call. My personal email is Cat@Studio-828.com