U.S./Europeanvs.Asian Modeling Agencies
U.S. and European Agencies.For the major agencies in the U.S. markets
and most of Europe, your photos in a model’s original portfolio may be re-
placed. Agencies often have new models do shoots with established photog-
raphers in their area—both for the experience this gives the models and in
ordertointroducethenewmodeltothephotographers.Thegoaloftheshots
youwillcreateforthemodelistocapturetheattentionofamajoragency,and
hopefullytoobtainacontractforthemodel.Asanaddedbonus,ifyourshots
interest the agency, sometimes they will later use your services to test a
prospective model found by their scouts as they tour the country.
Asian Agencies.FortheAsianmarket,suchasJapanandTaiwan,theport-
folio will stand “as is.” The photos must be sent to Asia, where the model’s
compcards willbe printedanddistributedtoclients as partof a marketingef-
fort that begins well before the model leaves the United States. Immediately
uponarrivalinAsia,the modelmustbe ready towork. Time is of the essence,
as a typical model’s contract in Asia in normally limited to just two short
months (although some models stay three months). Because of this timeline,
a working portfolio is an absolutely necessity.
Comp Cards.
In addition to a portfolio, models will need comp cards to get started in the
business. This is a promotional piece, featuring photos and contact informa-
tion,thatsheusestoattractpotentialclients.Usually,themodel’sagentkeeps
a good supply on hand, and the model has a few with her at all times. These
cards are usually 6x9 inches in size, but can also be made the size of a post-
card to be mailed as promotional pieces. There is usually one photo on the
front and three or four on the back.
The Model’s Comfort.
When photographing models (especially inexperienced ones), it’s important
to make the shoot comfortable for them—after all, being in front of a cam-
era and surrounded by lights can be intimidating for anyone. I love making
models feel the confidence they need to be at their best on camera. I do this
by focusing on their strengths and getting them pumped up about the shoot.
122 LIGHTING TECHNIQUES FOR PHOTOGRAPHING MODEL PORTFOLIOS
8. Additional Tips.
Agencies often have
new models do shoots
with established
photographers in
their area.