PLUS MODEL: Portfolio photos, location
The video featured in this article was developed from a Look Book shoot on location in Barbados for Plus Designer “Monif C” based in New York, U.S.
Since I’ve entered into the world of plus modeling, I have learned a lot about some of the dos and don’ts of the business. As a model, your first impression generally comes from photo presentation. While everyone may not have a ton of money to get started, this is an area that’s worth the initial investment. If your pictures are lousy, then the chances of getting noticed by potential Designers,
Stylists, Casting Directors, Booking Agents or an Agency are second to none.
Find a photographer whose style fits the image you want. Most photographers offer package deals to provide a bigger bang for your buck. When you’re working out details for your shoot, don’t be afraid to ask questions about what to expect. You want to know how many looks can you shoot, if they provide a make-up artist, how much time you can reserve, if the shoot is on location or in studio, if they retouch photos, who has ownership of photos, turnaround time for production, how will you receive those photos, the exact fees for services and how and when to provide payment.
There are certain key pictures you want to make sure to capture during your photo shoot. Some initial
images that you need to build your portfolio and future comp card include a head-on-face shot, a full-body shot, a medium shot, and a beauty shot. Remember that you need to be able to show off your figure in the simplest way possible. As a curvy girl, living in a plus sized world – shape wear is a girl’s best friend and totally acceptable.
You also need to be aware that as a curvy model that not every photographer knows how to shoot a plus-sized woman. We have curves and those curves require special attention. Learn how to work your body for the camera and what angles allow for your body to look best. Don’t be afraid to practice in the mirror. Remember, practice makes perfect.
Take advantage of your environment and go on location to create some amazing shots for your portfolio. You’ve heard the term “location, location, location,” but for some of us that is literally in our backyard. Use your lifestyle surroundings to your benefit and take advantage of your environment. If you live in Puerto Rico make use the beaches or jungle. If you live in Africa use the market place, ruins or Safari. My point is that no matter where you live, make the most of your location, location, location. Major publications, marketing firms, designers and businesses pay a lot of money to have photo shoots in exotic locations.