So you want to be a Model?

You should prepare to invest in your future and hire the services of an experienced Photographer that knows what will show you well, and has the equipment and practice to ensure that you get the best possible shots. Planning, makeup, hair, lighting, posing and the final processing of images are all factors that can make or break a portfolio shot. Professional Portfolio sessions will ensure that you look the best you can in the images that you present to get paid work for yourself.

In addition to providing you with profressional services and images, these sessions also provide you with experience that will further your confidence and understanding of the market you are entering and help you to understand your role in front of the camera. These added benefits will only enhance your chances of being noticed by professionals looking for that perfect Model for their own projects.

While it's true that you can build a portfolio entirely for free, you will get better results faster by investing in a solid start, and that can also set the bar for future sessions ensuring that you always get higher quality images and sessions with more experienced and creative artists. It's also true that most agencies don't require a professional session to see what you look like and make their selections. You should, at least once a year, get a fresh set of 'natural' polaroids done that show your shape, complexion, and facial features properly so that you are always ready to submit images on request to an agent.

Aspiring Models should look at my Contact page to find a list of portfolio sharing sites that are, for the most part, free to join, and make great places to show off your latest and best images and also find opportunities for creative sessions that will expand your book. Be selective and remember that the images you post are your Resume. Snapshots, camera phone images and poorly lit or posed images should never be shown on these sites as they can reduce your chances. When someone that matters is looking, you want to ensure that they see you only at your best. If you wish an impartial review of your portfolio, drop me a line and I will let you know my honest thoughts and make recommendations.

And be critical of the work you see when selecting a Photographer to work with. Make sure that their work is at least as good as what you have already in your portfolio. There's no value in working with someone for free if you won't also gain usable images from the outing. There is a growing market of Photography students and advanced amateurs willing to take 'Free' images of you in trade to build their portfolio, but these are not always beneficial to your portfolio.

Don't hesitate to take a friend along to your shoots, especially your first time with a new Photographer. If the Photographer has an issue with this idea, don't go! There's safety in numbers, and a true pro will always permit a chaperone as long as they are out of the way and there only for comfort and safety reasons.

And finally, on the subject of Nudes. As an Artistic Photographer, I do have personal projects that show nude or near nude models, but nudes are NOT required for your portfolio. Ever! In fact, they can lower your chances in some cases. Be sure that you are comfortable with nude work and know the impact that can have on future career options before you say yes to a nude shoot.

Cheers and Good Luck on your Path to becoming a Model!

My Release Forms

These forms are required signing for any and all creative sessions (TFCD) where your images may become part of my own professional portfolio, or be used in a personal or commercial project.

Portfolio Sessions

Professional Portfolio sessions are available on a minimum of 10 days advance booking (30% retainer required) to ensure that all required services are available on the day of your session. In studio or on location may be available depending on dates and desired styling.

Your session fee of $375 (HST included) includes:

  • Pre-session consultation on styling
  • Professional Makeup and Hair Styling
  • Up to Two (2) Hours Photography
  • Up to Three (3) wardrobe changes
  • Professional Processing of the best Two (2) Images from each look
  • Digital Negatives ready to print up to 9x12 inches for your book
  • Web resolution files for posting to portfolio sites
  • Digital Comp Card layout with up to 4 images

Your non-refundable retainer is required at booking in the amount of $125, with the balance of $250 due on the day of your session on arrival. Should a re-schedule date be required, your retainer will apply to the new date as long as a minimum of 48 hours notice is given of the change. Cancellation or re-scheduling within 48 hours of shoots will result in the loss of your retainer. Additional time, changes and looks are also available on the day of with advance planning. Specialty makeup or body painting may increase the costs.

Samples of my Portfoilio work can be seen here.


Polaroid Sessions

Are you looking for a quick polaroid session done right? We can put it together on very short notice. Your session will start with a phone consultation advising on wardrobe, and selecting a time and location for your session. This may be indoors or out and requires minimal equipment and time. A series of high resolution digitial images will be taken that show the things an agency wants to see, and those images will be prepared for you. You will receive full color digital files ready to send or post at a moments notice, as well as print-ready files for up to 9x12 portfolio sized prints. Bring a USB storage device and we may be able to deliver the files at the session after about 1/2 hour selection and processing time. Images may also be sent via email or online services. CD or DVD available on request for an extra $10 to cover media and delivery.

Total fee is just $40. Full fee is payable on arrival at your session.