7 Practical Tips for Model Headshots to Boost Your Modeling Portfolio

Model headshots are essential for modeling portfolios, as they are one of the first things potential employers will see. If you’re a model looking to boost your portfolio and stand out in a crowded market, it’s important that you invest in high-quality headshots.

Model headshots are essential for modeling portfolios because they give potential clients a clear and concise look at your face and unique features.

What is a Model Headshot?

A model headshot is a photo of a model’s face that is typically used for casting and other modeling-related purposes. The photo is typically taken by a professional photographer and is used to showcase the model’s unique features and characteristics. Model headshots are typically used by modeling agencies and clients to help them evaluate a model’s potential for various modeling opportunities. In general, a good model headshot should be clear, well-lit, and accurately represent the model’s appearance.

A model headshot is one of the necessary materials models should have in addition to model digitals and model comp cards.

In this article, we’ll provide seven practical tips for taking model headshots that will help you elevate your portfolio and improve your chances of success.

1. Use natural light

When taking professional model headshots, it is essential to use natural lighting because it provides a more natural and flattering result. Natural light is softer than studio lighting, which can be harsh and unflattering on the skin. It also provides a more realistic look that is more appealing to the eye. 

Additionally, natural light is easier to adjust and control, as it is more diffused than studio lighting. This makes it easier to create a more pleasing and even lighting effect that can be tailored to the individual model’s features. Natural lighting also produces more accurate colors that are more in line with what the model’s skin tone actually looks like in real life. Finally, natural lighting is free and easy to access, allowing for more creative options and flexibility in the headshot session.

2. Choose a simple, uncluttered background

When taking model headshots, it is important to choose a simple, uncluttered background. A cluttered background can be distracting and can draw attention away from the model, taking the focus off of their face and features. This can make the model look less polished and professional and can take away from the overall impact of the photo.

Using a simple, uncluttered background allows the focus to remain on the model and their face. This can help to showcase the model’s unique features and personality and can make the photo more engaging and interesting. A simple background can also help to create a clean and professional look, which can be important for models who are trying to build their portfolio and attract potential clients. By using a simple background, you can save time and effort in post-processing and can focus on making the model look their best.

3. Consider your facial expressions and emotions in model headshots

Model headshots are not just about having a great photo; they are also about having the right facial expressions and emotions in the photo. Facial expressions and emotions play a crucial role in model headshots because they can convey a lot about a person’s personality and character. A model’s face is the first thing that a potential client or employer will see, and it is important that the model’s facial expressions and emotions accurately reflect who they are and what they can bring to a project.

For example, a model who is smiling and looks happy and approachable in their headshots is likely to be perceived as friendly and engaging, while a model who looks serious and intense in their headshots may be perceived as more professional and focused. Therefore, it is important for models to consider their facial expressions and emotions when taking model headshots to ensure that they are accurately representing themselves and their brand.

Additionally, model headshots should be natural and genuine. It is important that the model’s facial expressions and emotions in the photo are authentic and not forced. A model trying too hard to look a certain way or posing in an unnatural way is likely to come across as inauthentic and not genuine.

One way that models can ensure that their facial expressions and emotions are natural and genuine in their headshots is by practicing in front of a mirror. This can help them to become more familiar with their own facial expressions and emotions, and it can also help them to see what looks natural and genuine on their own face.

4. Consider your outfit and makeup carefully

When it comes to taking model headshots, the outfit and makeup that a model chooses can be just as important as the photo itself. The right outfit and makeup can help to showcase a model’s unique style and character, and they can also help to attract the attention of potential clients and employers.

One of the important things to consider when choosing an outfit and makeup for model headshots is the context in which the photo will be used. Different types of modeling work will require different types of outfits and makeup, so it is important to choose an outfit and makeup that is appropriate for the type of modeling work that the model is interested in pursuing.

For example, a model who is interested in pursuing fashion modeling work will need to choose an outfit and makeup that is fashionable and on-trend, while a model who is interested in commercial modeling work may need to choose an outfit and makeup that is more natural and understated.

It is also important to choose an outfit and makeup that flatters the model’s unique features and characteristics. The outfit and makeup should highlight the model’s best features and help to create a cohesive and well-balanced look. For example, if the model has a strong jawline, they may want to choose an outfit and makeup that draws attention to this feature.

5. Experiment with different angles and poses

When experimenting with angles and poses, consider the type of modeling work that you are interested in pursuing. Different types of modeling work will require different angles and poses, so it is important to experiment with a range of angles and poses to see which ones work best for the model and the type of modeling work they are interested in.

For example, a model who is interested in fashion modeling may want to experiment with more dramatic and fashion-forward angles and poses, while a model who is interested in commercial modeling may want to experiment with more natural and understated angles and poses.

It is also important to experiment with different angles and poses to showcase the model’s unique features and characteristics. Different angles and poses can highlight different features, so it is important to experiment with a range of angles and poses to see which ones showcase the model’s best features.

Additionally, it is important to experiment with different angles and poses to create a well-balanced and cohesive portfolio. A portfolio with a range of angles and poses is likely to be more versatile and appealing to potential clients and employers, so it is important to experiment with different angles and poses to create a portfolio that showcases the model’s range and versatility.

6. Hire a professional photographer

Hiring a professional photographer when taking model headshots is an essential part of creating a strong and professional portfolio. Professional photographer has the experience, knowledge, and skills to capture the best possible photos of a model, and they can help to create headshots that are high-quality and professional.

One of the key advantages of hiring a professional photographer is their experience and expertise. Professional photographer has likely worked with many models before, and they know how to capture the right angles, poses, and expressions to create the best possible headshots. They also have the knowledge and skills to use lighting, composition, and editing techniques to create high-quality, professional-looking photos.

Another advantage of hiring a professional photographer is their ability to provide guidance and direction. A professional photographer can provide valuable feedback and advice to help the model relax and feel comfortable in front of the camera. This can help to create natural and genuine facial expressions and poses, which can make the headshots look more authentic and professional.

7. Prepare in advance

Preparing ahead when getting your model headshot is an essential part of creating a strong and professional portfolio. By taking the time to prepare ahead of the photo shoot, models can ensure that they are ready and prepared to create the best possible headshots.

It is important to prepare ahead of time by practicing in front of a mirror. This can help the model to become more familiar with their own facial expressions and poses, and it can also help them to see what looks natural and genuine on their own face. By practicing ahead of time, the model can ensure that they are ready and prepared to create the best possible headshots.

Moreover, preparing ahead when getting your model headshot is essential because it can help to ensure that the photo shoot is successful. By taking the time to prepare the outfit and makeup, the location and setting, and practicing in front of a mirror, models can create headshots that are high-quality and professional, which will help attract the attention of potential clients and employers.

Conclusion for Model Headshots

These tips include considering your facial expressions and emotions, choosing the right outfit and makeup, experimenting with different angles and poses, hiring a professional photographer, preparing ahead, being natural and genuine, and creating a cohesive and well-balanced portfolio. For tips about posing and modeling, check out our modeling training.

By following these seven practical tips for model headshots, models can create a strong and professional portfolio that will help to boost their modeling career.