What to Wear for Your Modelling Assignment

Knowing what to wear for your model portfolio photoshoot and what will look best in your photos, can feel confusing. There’s a lot to consider and depending on the types of modelling jobs or agencies you want to attract, a variety of clothing styles could look good for you.

As a fashion photographer, I work on lots of different photoshoots and fashion projects with professional models. I also shoot model portfolios for private clients such as new and aspiring models. Many of whom have gone on to sign with their dream modelling agencies.

What to wear for your model portfolio photoshoot

Attracting Your Ideal Clients

Tailor the outfits to the kind of modelling work you want to book. Think about what your dream modelling jobs might look like. Are they magazine editorials, walking in fashion week, featuring in Nike campaigns, or modelling e-com for Zara. Your model portfolio should reflect the kind of modelling work you want to book, outfits included.o taken is why choosing the right photographer is so crucial for your experience.

If you’re starting out with no previous modelling experience or want to appeal to a wide range of brands, it’s a good idea to keep your outfits simple. Start with a neutral base of a plain top or bottom, like the kind you’d wear for model polaroids or digitals, and go from there.

Reference Successful Models and Their Portfolios

Look at model profiles on agency websites or models.com for inspiration. If there are modelling agencies or professional models you admire, look at their portfolios.

Make note of the type of jobs they’ve booked, the images from portfolio shoots earlier on in their modelling career and use the outfits as inspiration for your own.

If it’s an agency, look at their ‘New Faces’ and ‘Development’ boards because these models will be early on in their careers so it’s a great way to get outfit ideas for your own portfolio shoot.

Try On Your Outfits

Try outfits on and see how they photograph before your photoshoot. Taking pictures of the outfits you’re thinking of bringing to the shoot is the best way to test them out.

Are they fitting the way you want and creating a flattering look overall? How do they look in motion or in certain poses? Do they give off the impression that you want them to?

Have Multiple Outfit Options

Bring a range of different styles. Having a variety of clothing options to wear for your model portfolio shoot will give you a wider range of images to use. Bring simple fitted pieces, casual shoes, simple heels, lingerie or swimwear, jackets, and accessories.

To appeal to a range of audiences include a mix of smart, casual, and personal style in your outfits. It’s worth considering how many outfit changes you’ll realistically have time for.

Only bring one or two extra outfits than you need for insurance. The last thing you want after a long day of modelling is to be hauling an extra ten outfits that you didn’t need home.

Ask Your Photographer for Advice

Depending on the shoot location, duration, and photographic style, some outfit styles will work better than others.

Check in with the team you’re working with on your model portfolio shoot and run your outfit options by them. They may have ideas to elevate your outfits (and the overall outcome of the shoot) that you didn’t think of.

When you book a model portfolio photoshoot with me, you get a comprehensive pre-shoot email that includes all the information you need to ensure you have awesome photoshoot experience, including advice on what to wear for your model portfolio photoshoot.

Want your model portfolio outfits provided?

Still unsure what to wear for your model portfolio photoshoot? All my model portfolio photoshoot packages come with the option to work with an amazing fashion stylist who will choose your outfits for you. And with the Deluxe Portfolio package, professional hair, makeup, styling, and unlimited outfits are included in the price.