How Do I Become A Model In Chicago?
Chicago modeling photographers are few and far in-between.
However, what makes Sergio Garcia one of the top modeling portfolio photographer in Chicago is his skillset and exposure to wider modeling markets.
From NYC to LA, Sergio has experienced working with some of the biggest modeling agencies in the world. Additionally he has learned what it takes to create one of the best modeling portfolios and comp cards for male and female models in Chicago.
Locally, Sergio and his team have worked with Ford Models and Elite Models here in Chicago.
Chicago Modeling Photographers With A Creative Eye
His eye for fashion and editorial has allowed Sergio to capture modeling photos in Chicago that the modeling agencies love and approve. These photos end up being used on the model comp card by the agencies.
Are you a beginner model in Chicago? Sergio Garcia has the experience to guide you on your model headshots. This includes planning out your wardrobe and teaching you how to pose.
The majority of Chicago modeling photographers may not understand the nuances it takes to capture great modeling photos.
What Do Chicago Models Need?
As a model in Chicago you may not know that you need the following “looks” in your modeling portfolio or model comp card.
Additionally, if you’re a new model, you may not even know that professional Chicago modeling photographers should be making these types of suggestions.
- Lifestyle photos – This includes what is known as a model portrait of your face and is typically the “cover” for your model comp card. Top Chicago modeling photographers know that the hair and make up for this should be kept to a minimum for women as this is not the time to go all out fashion.
- Fashion photos – Even though these are the fashion photos for a modeling portfolio, it is important to remember that it’s about you, the model, at the end of the day. Not the clothes. We have seen some Chicago modeling photographers botch this part of a models portfolio and put them in outfits where the model is lost and not the main focus. Bad!
- Body photos – Modeling clients in Chicago want to see your body shape. So whether male or female, you need photos in your modeling portfolio that show off your body shape and tone. The type of body photos captured will vary depending on your age (they must be age appropriate). When contacting Chicago modeling photographers make sure they know your age and follow appropriate measures to capture the right type of body photos for your modeling portfolio.
Your Homework As A Model in Chicago
As an aspiring model, you too must due your own research and make sure you have somewhat of an idea what is needed to start your career.
Modeling is not just about fashion photos. You need to show diversity for all the modeling clients Chicago has to offer. Sergio truly aims to be one of the best Chicago modeling photographers who is a one stop shop for aspiring and professional models.
Tip: To prepare for your modeling photoshoot in Chicago, read our detailed guide on How To Make A Modeling Portfolio.







Modeling in Chicago
When you contact us for your modeling portfolio in Chicago, we can assist with putting the entire team together for your photoshoot.
The team and their jobs will be explained below.
Wardrobe Stylist in Chicago
A wardrobe stylist will go out and pull 90% of the clothes that are needed for your modeling shoot. As you read above, you need a lifestyle look, a fashion look and a body look whether a male or female. The stylist and I work together to plan the looks using reference images we find online. Once the stylist knows the looks, and your measurements, they will go out and pull similar clothes.
The day of the shoot they will arrive with the clothes, iron/steam them and then eventually pin them on you so that they fit right. You will still be responsible to bring some key pieces like shoes, bras and briefs.
Hair and Make up Artist in Chicago
Their job is to make sure your skin looks fresh and clean. When you work with a profession HMU in Chicago who has experience shooting modeling portfolios, they will know exactly what to do. For women, they know modeling agencies in Chicago want your skin to be fresh and young. They will never pile on make up or give you a glam look for your first modeling portfolio. That’s a big no-no. Same with your hair, it will be kept natural and loose.
For male models in Chicago, the biggest concern is skin, so a make up artist will make sure to conceal any blemishes, dark circles or acne.