THE COMP CARD

What is a comp card?

(Also called composite card, z card or set card) The Comp card is a marketing tool for actors and especially models. Think of it as a business card that serves to show the latest and best of a model's work.

The comp card is one of the greatest tools used to get work. Basically, it’s a card, around 5” x 8” in size, printed on both sides.  The front side of the card is usually the models’ headshot along with the model’s name and agency logo.  The backside of the comp card usually has multiple shots of the model, usually four in number.  The actual size and design of the card isn’t always standardized, but the Modeling Agency will sometimes want all their comp cards to be similar to convey the “look” of the agency.

How do I create a comp card?

Begin by shopping around for photographers, ask for consultations as well as referrals, when you find a photographer that fits your budget as well as your desired look, create an agreement so that you have a clear idea of how many looks as well as pics you will be getting.

After getting your photographs. Cropping and placement of your photos are the most important consideration. But many top agencies insist on models following their design, which means that you have no control of the look and feel of your comp card. It's just a matter of filling in the approved layout with your photos. And very often the choices of layouts are few. But there are many agencies that allow models to design their own cards as long as they use the agencies logo. This is where Model Cards can make a big difference for you.

How should I go about designing my comp card?

Use of colors, shapes and typography can turn an ordinary comp card into an exceptional one. Keep it sample and try to customize the look to the area of the industry you are trying to enter. The front should consist of a single head shot, this will make it easier for the client to identify what they are looking for, Remember clients hate it when your com card looks completely different than you. The back should consist of 4 to 6 other pictures that show a variety of scenarios, remember to show flexibility and look like you are having fun.

What is a headshot?

The basic headshot is a head and shoulders portrait (sometimes looser) of you that represents you as you look now, that potential clients use to determine if you are appropriate for their particular project.  The headshot needs to be flattering and informative.  You need to look good in the photo, but it must still be realistic. Again remember clients HATE it when a model shows up for a shoot and they look nothing like their headshot