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Modeling in 2020 Pt. II: What to Keep & What to Leave Behind


In the first entry of this mini blog post, "Modeling in 2020 Pt. I: What to Keep & What to Leave Behind", I talked about modeling portfolios.

In this second installment, let's talk about modeling comp/zed cards. For a crash course on what this tool is, check out the blog post I wrote on the topic: Comp/Zed Cards

WHAT IS A COMP/ZED CARD?

Think of this as a model's business card but larger and with more information on it. Agencies use them to conveniently promote their models to current and potential clients. Freelance models also use it as a networking tool. Because it has photos, contact info and the model's statistics (height, weight, clothing sizes, etc.), it quickly tells the person looking at it what they need to know.

KEEP IT OR TOSS IT: KEEP IT!

When it comes to modeling agencies, the use of comp/zed cards is still a common occurrence, especially in larger markets and at agencies specializing in fashion, runway and editorial work. New models signed to the roster will still have these marketing tools set up for them in addition to the creation of their modeling portfolio via professional test shoots.

So regardless of what year it is, chances are that won't change very much in the business world of agencies. For those of you with agency representation, it's the agency's job to maintain that so you can relax because it's one less thing you've got to worry about.

Freelance models, however, must be in charge of creating their comp/zed card. But the main thing to focus on is having a digital comp/zed card.

Truth be told, having a standard business card with your headshot and contact info/social media handles on it will be enough to suffice when it comes to networking in general. Utilizing a digital comp/zed card that you can post online and email to potential clients (or agencies you want to submit to if you've got modeling experience already) is a great asset.

Already handy with Photoshop? Then you can easily create your own design. Not very savvy with tech and graphic design stuff? There are online companies that specialize in comp card design that allow you to pick from any number of templates or even create your own (if they offer a customization tool).

When it comes to the file formats you'll want to have a version of your comp/zed card in a PDF and JPEG form. The great thing about digital comp/zed cards is that you can easily update the information, switch out the photos, etc. anytime you want, depending on what route you choose to create the card.

What about hard copies of the comp/zed card? The good news is you shouldn't go out and get 100 printed. If you need a physical comp/zed card, play it smart and only print the smallest quantity. Most online printing sites set the minimum at 25. That's more than enough to have on hand. Those with photo printers at home can simply print on demand the quantity needed.

To find a few examples of online options you have for printing and design, visit the link for Comp/Zed Cards near the top of this post.

This modeling calling card is still used in the industry but having a digital version to send out definitely makes the creation and implementation of the comp/zed card much more convenient to have around into the 2020s.
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Comments

Laura said…
I’m older, but interested in foot modeling. How to break in? What are expectations? What do they look for in foot modeling?
February 24, 2022 at 8:08 AM
Dania Denise said…
Hi, Laura! You'll find the answer to your question in its own post, titled "Answering a Reader Question #1,029," which can be found on my new blog: "Modeling 101 - Answering Readers Questions."

Please visit this link: http://amodelsdiary-readerquestions.blogspot.com/ and you can view your post there. Thanks for reading!
March 1, 2022 at 1:48 PM
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