Dunedin model portfolio photographer Finn

I had the absolute pleasure of photographing Finn for her modelling portfolio in my Dunedin studio a couple of weeks ago. She arrived with a couple of simple outfits, a clean glam brief, and a quiet confidence that lit up the room the second we started. My goal with every portfolio session is the same: create agency-ready images that feel like you, while giving you variety for comp cards, submissions, and socials.

What we aimed for (and why it matters)

When you’re building a modelling portfolio in Dunedin, it pays to keep things classic and versatile. Agencies want to see your face, your proportions, and how you move.

For Finn, we set three pillars for the session:

• Clean digitals (also called “polaroids”): natural light, minimal retouching, simple black singlet and jeans.

• Commercial headshots: bright, approachable, and perfect for clients who book from personality and expression.

• Editorial vibe: subtle styling, interesting shapes, and movement for range.

This combination hits the sweet spot for both model agencies in NZ and direct-to-client work.

The studio setup (for the photo nerds)

I kept the lighting clean and flattering—soft key light with gentle fill for headshots, then a little mood for the editorial set. We shot against plain white walls to keep the focus on Finn, switching from a crisp white to a grey seamless backdrop for contrast. The gear’s there to serve the story, and the story here was fresh, modern, confident.

Finn’s looks

• Digitals: Barely-there makeup, hair natural, black singlet, jeans, great shoes. Full length, ¾ length, and close-ups—front, side, and profiles.

• Headshots: A fitted black tee and black pants, blue tee and mini skirt.

  
  

Finn nailed the micro-moves—chin angles, shoulder shifts, relaxed hands—which makes such a difference in a model portfolio.

Wardrobe + prep tips for your modelling portfolio

If you’re thinking about booking a studio photography session in Dunedin, here’s how to arrive set for success:

• Bring well-fitting basics (black/white singlets or tees, jeans) plus one elevated look.

• Keep makeup natural unless we’ve planned a creative concept—agencies want to see you.

• Nails tidy, moisturiser on hands/arms/legs, lint roller for dark pieces.

• Hydrate, sleep, and bring a snack—energy = better movement.

• Practice a few expressions in the mirror. It feels silly, but it works.

Who this session is perfect for

• New faces who need digitals and a starter portfolio to submit to agencies.

• Working models after a portfolio refresh or new comp card images.

• Actors and creators needing updated headshots with personality.

I offer tailored shoots here in my Dunedin studio for model portfolios, comp cards, digitals, and professional headshots—with guidance on posing, expressions, and outfit selection. You don’t have to know how to model; I’ll direct you every step of the way.

Post-shoot: what you receive

• A curated online gallery with the best takes

• A mix of colour + black & white

• Light, natural retouching that keeps skin real

• Optional comp card layout add-on

• Advice on image selection for NZ modelling agencies and platforms

Ready to build your Dunedin model portfolio with me as your photographer?

If you’re launching or levelling up, I’d love to work with you. Send me a message to talk dates, goals, and looks—then we’ll create something polished, modern, and unmistakably you.