Expert: Kitty Kavey - 7/19/2006

Question
Hello I wanna be a model.I need a portfolio.I just wanna know like ever picture I take my eyes look dead how can I not look so dead.What kind of poses should I do for my portfolio.Thats about it and anything elese you can tel me about modeling.

Answer
A portfolio is usually the work that you have done as a model, not something you would get before you are signed with an agency, or before you begin doing paid modeling work.

As for the eyes, some people are photogenic, some are not.  If you're uncomfortable or nervous, that can show in the face.  

Poses should be something you don't think of consciously, but rather something you develop naturally that best shows what it is your selling.  If you are selling clothing, you need to show the clothing in the best way possible.  If your selling a look or an idea, you should make sure that's what comes across on camera.

With a little bit of practice in front of a mirror, you can usually start to see what works for your particular body type/shape and look.

Working with different photographers, you will notice that some give very specific instructions: where your feet or hands should be, where you should look, arch more, smile, don't smile, etc. while others will give you hardly any instruction at all, or just stop you when they see what works through the lens.  You'll learn as you gain experience what works well for you and what doesn't - and you usually come out looking differently with different photographers, hairstylists/makeup artists and photo stylists.

Most important is to really love and enjoy what you're doing.  That's when your best self will come through on camera.
Good luck to you,
~Kitty