Portfolio pictures for models will also include tight shots of ones face, whether male or female. Depending who you talk to, they may be referenced as fashion headshots, model head shots, beauty shots, face shots, portrait shot or a close up. At the end of the day, they all mean the same thing. A photo that is focused on your face.

These professional model headshots typically end up being towards the front of your portfolio and are used as the cover of your model comp card. The purpose is so that clients get a clear view of your features. The types of clients can range, but you’ll see that beauty or skincare clients will always request a beauty shot from you or your agency.

How To Capture Female Model Headshots

It’s important that your female model headshots are captured correctly, as this can make or break your portfolio. These types of model headshots should be very, very clean and minimal when it comes to your hair, make up and the lighting used by the model photographer. When you are first building your modeling portfolio, you never want your model head shots to be too elaborate or “fashion”. By this we mean no crazy hair or make up. You are just starting your modeling career so you want everything to be clean and simple. At the end of the day, the photos should highlight YOU.

Many female models make the mistake of going to off-the-wall with your model headshots and don’t realize the negative affect this will have on their model portfolio.

Mastering Male Model Headshots

The same holds true for male model pics. While men don’t necessarily have to worry about over-doing it with hair and make up, you still want to follow a few guidelines. Male model headshots should also be fairly clean when it comes to what you are wearing and the lighting used by the photographer. Don’t forget, it’s about your face. Not a cool jacket or watch.

When wondering what to wear for headshots in modeling, stick to simple solid articles of clothing. Stay away from logos, patterns or anything with too much texture as it can take away from your face. Ideally for women a clean tube top and for men a simple v neck work completely fine.

The headshot model poses for both men and women don’t require any crazy expression or dramatic pose. You can have a slight tilt to the head or show a bit of one side instead of the other; just make sure you don’t give the camera a complete profile of your face. You still want the client to be able to see 90% of your face.

What About Fashion Model Headshots?

When you are thinking about modeling headshot examples, fashion headshots may be what you’re thinking. These are the high-end fashion photos you see for major beauty brands and the like. However, these are not ideal for beginner male and female models because you’re not to that level yet. You want to start sell yourself as a clean plate and let the client picture you in certain products or settings.

However, if you want to shoot fashion model headshots just for the hell of it, then go for it. These do tend to be a bit more creative. The lighting can be more interesting or edgy and you are more than free to play with your make up, hair or wardrobe. Just remember that these typically don’t do much for your modeling portfolio or for clients who may want to book you.

It’s true that the boring and clean model headshots are always the best. No matter what market you are in.

Modeling Headshots Near Me

As a premier model photographer, we know what the best photos are for model headshots. So whether you are a male or female model, we are more than capable of helping you build your modeling portfolio.

It’s also important to remember that model headshots are only one small part of your entire modeling portfolio. Model headshots aren’t the “one and only”. Yes, they are important, but a professional modeling portfolio has more looks, which we will touch on below.

So when you need a photographer for modeling, make sure you do your research and contact one of the best.