How do you start a acting or modeling portfolio?

  • Thread starter Thread starter Best Actor Ever
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Best Actor Ever

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I am trying to pursue a career in acting and modeling and I dont know how to make my portfolio.
 
get a seventeen mag and look in the back
there are tons of ads for modeling and acting BUT don't go to barbizon
they screwed me over big time...
 
take it from someone who is experienced. Got o Sam's Flax and get a black portfolio binder. ( black because it is a professional color.) Then print off pictures of your accomplishments from the last two years, print off head shots, and print off resumes. slide them in each pocket by this order: resume, head shots, more pic of you, activities. be sure to get an Agent too, and have a head shot taken professionally. Also, whenever going into a audition, act yourself and very, very upbeat, and energetic, since the casting directors probably seen many people, and that will wake them up to pay attention to you.
 
For acting, you don't really need a portfolio. You need a headshot with your resume on the back. You need to put your name and contact info, any union affiliations (SAG, etc). Then by category (Film, TV, Theatre, Commercials, Various) list your work - name of production, role, studio/theatre/TV channel/client. Below that you list acting courses you have taken and any special skills (stunts, foreign language, juggling, martial arts or anything else that might make you stand out)

For modeling you don't need a full portfolio if you haven't done any professional modeling before. If you get an agent, they will help you put together a portfolio. You will need a good headshot, profile shot, and full body shot that shows off your body - you could do 2, one clothed and one in a swimsuit or underwear.
 
you cant really make your portfolio without work (i know its a catch-22). you need to go out to open calls for models and take any opportunity (paid OR unpaid) you can. when i first started modeling, i also did runway makeup, so i was able to do professional shoots using myself as a model, and for that i was very lucky. that said, i also went out to open calls, and modeled often for my friends who were photographers. my portfolio was modest when i got signed, but i guess it was enough. you need to be photogenic, have a unique look, be at least 5'9 (thats for women, men definitely need to be taller) and you have to really engage the agent in the go-see. im 5'10 and i actually got a comment once about being a "tad to short" for a particular runway show, so you never know what certain clients are looking for. as an actor, you need to build a resume, and professional headshots, which cost a fortune, but if you can find student photographers or friends who are apt at it, you will be able to get decent photos for very little. again, just get out to as many open calls as possible, and audition for all non-equity shows in the community to get your resume started.
 
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