How to build a modelling portfolio

A portfolio — the "book" — is a model's business card. Brands and agencies often meet you through it first. The good news: a strong portfolio doesn't need hundreds of photos or expensive shoots. What matters is a small number of the right images.

What to include

1. Close-up portrait: face clearly visible, minimal make-up.
2. Waist up: plain background, natural expression.
3. Full length: front and side, in simple clothes that show your shape.
4. Range of expression: one smiling, one neutral, one with character.
5. Movement: a natural shot walking or turning.
6. Work examples, if you have them: campaign, e-commerce or editorial work you're allowed to use.

To start, 6–10 strong images beat 30 average ones.

Why polaroids (digitals) matter

Agencies and brands want to see you as you are, separate from styled shoots. That's why they ask for simple, unfiltered daylight photos with no or very light make-up — known as "polaroids" or "digitals". Update them every few months.

Choosing photos

• Current: remove old photos if your hair, weight or look has changed.
• Consistent: every image should show the same, current you.
• Quality: skip blurry, dark or low-resolution images.
• Filters and retouching: edits that change your face or body damage trust.
• Order: open and close with your strongest images.

How to build it

• Start with your phone: daylight photos in front of a plain wall are enough for a first step.
• TFP shoots: collaborate unpaid with photographers, make-up artists and stylists who are also building portfolios. Agree usage terms up front.
• Professional shoot: if you have the budget, plan a shoot with an experienced photographer and agree how many images you'll receive.

Be wary of anyone selling you a "mandatory package" to build your portfolio.

Digital portfolio

Most brands now look at portfolios online. Presenting your photos in a tidy profile, together with your measurements and experience, makes their job easier.

Your portfolio on CastLyra

You can upload up to 8 photos with your CastLyra application. Your browser resizes them and removes hidden data such as location. Only photos approved by our team appear on your profile.

Application photo guide · Posing tips · Start your application