Model Z cards
For your Z cards you need top quality, high resolution images.
The portfolio images produced at one of my photo shoots will be suitable for printing onto Z cards.
Only the best pictures you have should appear in your modelling portfolio and on your ‘Z Card’ because this is effectively the business card for any model. It is quite normal for images produced by several photographers to appear on your Z card.
Z Cards (or composite cards as they are also called) are a small selection of modelling pictures from your models portfolio printed onto a card that can be mailed to prospective clients and held by model agencies. Thay are generally A5 in size but other sizes are possible and folded examples are also an option.
The down side of a Z Card is that they only show a sample of your portfolio to a certain date and constantly need replacing!
This illustration here is made from pictures taken of Kate at a single photo shoot and is typical of a basic two side Z card composition for a photographic model. It contains a good head shot, figure shot and shots that demonstrate her posing ability. Each of these images helps to promote the look, style and work capability of the model to clients.
The actual item is based on A5 and is double sided. Some Z cards can be very elaborate, multi sided and therefore more expensive.
In addition to the chosen images, the models details are listed and include contact details and website address where a more detailed profile and many more publicity pictures can be displayed.
Choosing the right pictures for a modelling portfolio can be quite difficult. It is too easy for a model to pick her favourite pictures but these may not be the best for a portfolio, so ask for advice and help with this from a photographer or other professional working in your chosen area for modelling.
IMPORTANT - Arrange for your own Z card printing - most competent printing or lithograph companies can produce them.
I do not recommend that your Z card is done by a modelling agency because you will pay the printing costs but the agency will ensure that all of their details and logo are included on the finished item. This makes those Z cards difficult for other modelling agencies to use and can lead to confusion about who to contact.
It is also very helpful to develop a good working relationships with the photographers you meet and work for. Not only are they a potential source of modelling work but they can also provide you with prints from commercial engagements and help you with any technical issues with your portfolio.