Words By Nicole Fazlinia / Main Feature Images By Stevie Roy

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Every day is a blast over at the lovely Aire Street Studio, but today was extra incredible as we had the pleasure of being visited by the next best thing in the modelling world - Melissa @kgatare_. In fact, friends, she’s so incredible she’s getting her own blog for our journal written by me, Nicole Fazlinia.

First, let’s define a modelling portfolio. According to the fashion-and-modelling savvy gurus over at UK Models, a modelling portfolio ‘is a collection of professionally shot images that is ultimately your visual modeling CV used to advertise your skills and abilities in front of the camera,’. Think of a modeling portfolio as a model’s very own show-stopping, unique Instagram feed, but with a professional twist. It acts as a business card, and ideally should be jam-packed with stunning photos which work to express the personality and the range of the model clearly, never undermining their ability to slay the day away, so to speak.

Behind the scenes image of indie girl with dark hair

It’s an ode to the individual, it should be like the model is trying to say ‘I’m not just a pretty face; I’m a whole vibe!’. Melissa was indeed a whole a vibe, by the way. Please come back soon the kids miss you! Back to the topic at hand, on a more serious note, this collection of photos shouldn’t just be about looking pretty, but rather a carefully curated, personally picked, mix of headshots, full-body glam shots, and pics that scream personality and style. Photographers (in this case the talented, fashion-and-fun-filled Stevieroy, @stevieroyphoto, with the aid of our very own Mark Wheelwright) work their magic to capture the model’s essence and versatility. This portfolio isn’t complete without the deets – measurements, experience, and the all-important contact info. Like I said, it’s what a business card is to an accountant, or what a Spotlight account is to an actor - it’s vital!

Behind the scenes image of photography session at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Now that we’ve laid out the facts, ‘but why should I even have one?’ you ask.

To that I say, are you model? If the answer is no, then I’m sorry for wasting your time :( - please do read on anyways it is interesting I promise with a cherry on top! If the answer is yes, then you should also read on, I say, louder than before, because it’s important to know as much as possible about your industry. Essentially, having a killer modeling portfolio is the VIP pass in the fashion world, unlocking doors to endless opportunities. It’s literally a master key, speaking from experience, even as an actor it is so beneficial to have a frequently updated range of headshots. It’s not just about showcasing a model’s photogenic charm; it’s the visual, physical evidence of their skills, versatility, and unique flair. A portfolio is like the golden ticket that introduces models to agents, casting directors, and clients, and having one that shouts out to those already-hard-to-please casting directors and agents is insanely important. Plus, it’s your modeling diary – the snapshot of your journey. It means you and/or your agent can see areas you need to improve in, but also what you as a model are fierce at. It’s what agents and clients flip through, and you should aim to be documenting the range of looks, styles, and emotions they can effortlessly embody. Essentially, it’s the model’s personal brand encapsulated in glossy photos, leaving a lasting impression and making them memorable in the fiercely competitive industry. A top-notch portfolio is not just a want; it’s a need, the key to turning heads and securing coveted spots in the dazzling world of modeling.

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Remember when I said a stellar modelling portfolio should be crafted similarly to a banging Instagram feed but with a professional twist? What actually makes up a stellar modelling portfolio? Well, it’s all about showcasing a diverse range of head-turning shots that showcase personality, versatility, and an undeniable wow factor. Quality triumphs over quantity, so each photo should be a showstopper, leaving a lasting impression. No casting director will have the time to flip through fifty of the same shots with your head tilted slightly differently in each one. Your most slayest photos, some may even say (note the double superlative; that’s how important it is). Your first few shots act as the opening act to the hypothetical show, and will be capturing the most attention attention, so pick your very best. Expressing your own personal unique flair is non-negotiable – whether it’s a signature pose or a killer expression, let your personality and authenticity shine through, it’s not the time to be shy! Versatility is your secret weapon.

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Prove what a little runway chameleon you can be with plenty of looks and lighting changes. Trust me, the whole vibe of a shoot can be changed just by adjusting the little things. Another top tip, do not forget to regularly update your portfolio to reflect your evolving style and experiences. Like previously mentioned, don’t you forget the details – measurements, experience, and contact info are your final finishing touches; you’re garnishing, so to speak. So, think of your modeling portfolio as your visual autobiography – make it a page-turner that leaves everyone (cough, cough, casting directors and agents) wanting more!

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Thanks to rockstar photographers like Stevieroy (cue applause) and our very own Mark Wheelwright, it is very much possible to capture one’s own essence and versatility with just a click of a camera button. Not many people can say they can capture so much bona fide personality, rawness, and beauty through a lens, but those two certainly can! It was my first time meeting London, Yorkshire, and New York based Stevieroy, but he truly captured Melissa in the best light possible, both hypothetically, and literally! Although Melissa’s own flawless skin (no, but seriously, that jaw-droppingly stunning woman looks like AI even in person it’s insane) was more than perfect in front of the camera, the studio’s ten 600watt high speed lighting heads and mahoosive list of modifiers from Elinchrom and Phase One meant that we could get those pictures just perfectly right for her and her portfolio.

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Amid the hustle and bustle of our studio endeavors, teamwork was still the name of the game. Whilst we worked hard at the studio (and by we I mean Mark, Stevie and Melissa), I took on the very detrimental and crucial role of chief refreshment provider (short title, ‘Runner’), making sure to offer and deliver the crew frequent refreshments from the Brew Society (amazing coffee if I do say so myself), or they had the opportunity to help themselves and indulge in our very climate-friendly and ethically-sourced goodies and products products at our in-house mini-bar and counter. Our photography studio, located a mere 50 meters away from Leeds City Train Station, is a haven not just for artistic brilliance but also for eco-conscious snacking. At the risk of sounding soppy, this is just one of our own little thoughtful touches to make the studio a more comfortable and inclusive space, and I would like to think this reflects the pride we take in creating a positive and conscientious working environment for all of our clients: collaboration, hire, or in-house!

Behind the scenes image of photography session at Aire Street Studio Leeds

Melissa Kindly Offered a Testimonial and Google Review here and also >>>> ….. ‘My experience with Stevieroy, Mark and Nicole at Aire St Studios was truly exceptional because of their undeniable talent behind the lenses, and their ability to create an incredible ambiance for me during the photoshoot. From the moment I stepped onto the set, I felt at ease and inspired, thanks to their warm demeanour and expert guidance. Stevie’s assistance was invaluable offering insightful direction and ensuring every shot captured was nothing short of perfection. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to work with such talented and supportive photographers. Here’s to many more memorable moments behind the camera!’

Thanks Melissa, it was a pleasure working with you on this project. Mark

Now that you definitely know we mean business about our photography business at Aire St Studios, feel free to get in contact with Mark Wheelwright, and we will make sure to include you in our photography escapades too .. say hello@airestreetstudio.co.uk Maybe you’ll feature on our journal too!

Monochrome image of black female model with flawless skin tone captured on a photo studio hire at Aire Street Studio Leeds

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