Home » UpMarket

Comp Cards-A Models Calling Card

Phillyfreeze69 by Phillyfreeze69

Professional Models leave their comp card with potential clients

In addition to a Portfolio, most working models have compcards, also known as zed cards(in Europe). These act as a models business or calling cards and are widely used by all aspects of the modeling industry, especially high fashion and print models.

A comp card consists of a head shot three or four of your best shots from your portfolio, along with your name and basic stats: height, weight, age (personal preference), and your measurements. Compcards serve as excellent marketing tools to get models noticed and booked for jobs.
They are normally printed on card stock or other high grade paper so that they are'nt flimsy or bend easily. Agencies tend to display their models comp cards in the office for access to potential clients to see the various peple their agency represents. The cards can also be sent out to Photographers, Casting Directors, anyone else in the industry who may be in need of a model.

The type of photos you put on your card should represent the type of work you do,whether it's fashion, print, swimwear, parts modeling, etc. Because you have a small amount of pictures that you can fit on the comp card, only include your best photos. While keeping the theme of your photos consistent, you also need to show your versatility. Basically, all the photos should show diffrent poses, different types of outfits and must be the highest quality. Include images where you are smiling and when you are'nt. Anytime a client or Photographer is looking to hire a model, you want to show them everything you're capable of all on one card.

This maybe easier said than done but it is possible. Just remember to stay within your niche,if you are a swimwear/bikini model you would'nt have several food products displayed on your comp card.

Freelance Modeling

Having a visual reference for clients

If your are freelancing or don't have agency representation, then puttng together a comp card will definitely work in your favor. Some modeling agencies even ask for new models to submit compcards if they have them. As long as you have a handfull of good shots, you can put together a compcard using an online printing service.

The best way to find a printer and to compare prices and services offered you can use some the the search engines like Google, Yahoo, Bing, or Ask.com. It will be only a matter of time before you have your very own professional compcards to promote your modeling skills.

Featured Lenses

Loading

Reader Feedback

  • goo2eyes Feb 19, 2012 @ 6:53 pm | delete
    you really know your business. beautiful girls wherever you look.
  • Phillyfreeze69 Mar 22, 2012 @ 5:18 pm | delete
    goo2eyes, this is why you will often hear the term "beauty business", however not not all modeling jobs require the physical attributes of being beautiful. Being able to convey real life everyday situations is most popular.
    Think of your last viewing of a commercial for everyday products...beauty is not a everyday experience for most. Thanks for visting and commenting. Have a great week.!
  • Mujjen Feb 17, 2012 @ 4:23 pm | delete
    It is logical that a model's calling card should be with pictures!
  • Phillyfreeze69 Mar 22, 2012 @ 5:22 pm | delete
    Mujjen, you are so correct and Zed cards act as a mini-portfolio for model talent. Producing a card that reflects your modeling expertise is paramount. Thanks for liking and commenting.
  • Miko Losic CompCardCreations Nov 11, 2011 @ 7:52 pm | delete
    Every model out there started off with Comp Cards. They are a vital part of any model or even actors future career. You will be sending out a lot of these Comp Cards but don't get discouraged; it takes time and persistence but in the end, it will pay off!
  • Load More
Show All

This UpMarket page written by

Phillyfreeze69

Hello, I am a model consultant with over 25 years experience in the modeling and advertising industry. Lens: Hobby Modeling Jobs,Modeling For Ad Campaigns,... more »

Deluxe. Remarkable. Creative. Unusual. Successful. Upmarket businesses push the envelope -- does yours?

Connect with UpMarket

This author recommends...