Hello, hello loyal readers. Welcome to another Models Direct must-read instalment. Today, we’re zooming in on how to get the best headshot and capture it to its maximum potential. Our MD team has compiled a set of top tips to help you, whether it’s for yourself, your little one, your family, your friends or your […]
Published 14th September 2026
Hello, hello loyal readers. Welcome to another Models Direct must-read instalment.
Today, we’re zooming in on how to get the best headshot and capture it to its maximum potential. Our MD team has compiled a set of top tips to help you, whether it’s for yourself, your little one, your family, your friends or your pet. Here are our recommendations on how to get the best shot to kick-start your modelling application.
1. Portrait mode please
When whisking off your application, we ask for a headshot in portrait mode.
For family models, however, we request a landscape headshot and if you feel that it would be a good idea, thereafter, individual images of each family member. Individual images will need to be in portrait mode again.
2. Stay focused
Make sure your lens is clean – your smartphone can do the job just as well as a camera or a professional photographer. Ensure your headshot isn’t blurry and is as crystal clear as possible.
3. Avoid the shaky picture effect
It might be an aesthetic trend, but we would avoid applying it to your headshot because clients won’t truly know what you look like! If you have a tripod, use it to secure your phone or camera to take your image, or if you have another pair of hands to help, ask them if they could kindly take your headshot – you’ll be forever grateful!
4. Natural light
We love natural light and so do our clients, so when you’re ready to fill out your modelling application, maximise in the natural sunlight you can get, whether this is indoors beside a window or outdoors. Avoid glare from the sun, which could compromise the quality of your headshot.
5. Squash the fluff
Remove any litter around you which could come into your frame. All eyes are meant to be on you, so avoid distractions at all costs, budding photographers!
6. Less is more
We just want to see you, your child, your family or your pet. It’s an uncomplicated move, but the image should only be about the person putting themselves forward as an MD model. It shouldn’t include anyone else who is not registering with our agency.
7. Neutral tones for clothes and make-up
Opt for simple, straightforward apparel and makeup so again your headshot is not distracting and keeps as close to your natural look as possible. This benefits clients as they will see your look and get a first-hand experience of who you are.
You can get the wow factor and heads turning with a headshot that is out of this world. In reality, it’s pretty simple to create and add on as part of your modelling application. It will have a deeper impact as it will truly represent you, your family, your children or your pet.
Give it a go, and if you’re happy with your snap, send it off with your application. We can’t wait to see and speak to you!