Model Portfolio Sessions: How to Prepare for Your Best In-Studio Shoot

How Models Can Prepare for a Powerful In-Studio Portfolio Session

Whether you’re brand new to modeling or ready to elevate your book with fresh material, nothing sets the tone for your career like strong, versatile portfolio images. At Cheryl Clegg Photography, in-studio portfolio sessions are crafted to bring out your individuality, your range, and your confidence—because no two models are alike, and your portfolio shouldn’t be either.

Start With a Vision — But Stay Flexible

Before your session, think about the types of looks and moods you need: clean digitals, beauty shots, editorial-style portraits, lifestyle moments, or bold fashion. Bring inspiration if you have it, but come ready to collaborate. The magic happens when we build on your ideas and elevate them in real time.

Wardrobe: Bring Variety That Reflects Your Range

Your clothing should help agencies and clients see the full spectrum of who you can be on camera. Bring a curated assortment:

• Classic basics (fitted tees, tanks, jeans)

• A standout editorial look

• Something with movement or texture

• Polished, minimal beauty-focused pieces

• Statement accessories used sparingly

Neutrals always photograph beautifully, and solid colors keep the focus on you—but one bold option can create a striking hero shot.

Hair, Makeup & Grooming: Keep It Clean and Camera-Ready

A fresh face and clean grooming allow for the most flexibility. If you’re doing your own makeup, think “enhanced natural,” and avoid heavy products that can cake under studio lights. For hair, aim for a simple style you can tweak quickly between looks.

Bring Your Energy—It Shows

Studio sessions thrive when models relax into the process. Hydrate, sleep well the night before, and arrive a few minutes early so you can settle in. A calm mindset leads to stronger expressions and more dynamic posing.

Recent Sessions: Latrice & Donna

I recently had the pleasure of photographing Latrice of New England Model’s Group—she came prepared with a sleek wardrobe and incredible versatility, and together we created a series of strong, editorial-driven images that added beautiful dimension to her book.

Shortly after, Donna from Model Club Boston stepped into the studio, we crafted a wide variety of looks for her updated portfolio, ensuring each image had its own distinct personality and agency-ready finish.

Both sessions were perfect examples of how preparation and collaboration lead to standout results.

Why Models Choose Cheryl Clegg Photography

Your portfolio needs to open doors. That means each shot should feel unique, intentional, and true to your brand. My goal is to guide you through a session that’s fun, creative, and tailored to your strengths—whether you need clean digitals, bold editorials, or a mix of everything in between.

If you’re ready to update your modeling portfolio, elevate your range, or add fresh work that sets you apart, Cheryl Clegg Photography is the best choice for creating custom, standout portfolio shots.

Let’s create images that get you noticed.