Model Comp Cards 101: What Every Aspiring Model Needs to Know

If you're starting out in the modeling world, you've probably heard someone mention a "comp card" or "model composite card."

But what exactly is it—and do you really need one?

Short answer: yes! A model comp card is a crucial part of your professional toolkit, whether you're meeting with agencies, submitting for castings, or attending open calls.

Let's break down everything you need to know.

What Is a Model Comp Card?

A model comp card (short for composite card) is essentially your modeling business card. It's a sleek, printed card that includes a headshot, several additional images, and your key stats like height, measurements, hair/eye color, and more.

Agencies and clients use comp cards to get a quick overview of your look and range, and they often keep them on file after castings or meetings.

What Size Should a Model Comp Card Be?

The industry standard size for comp cards is 8.5 x 5.5 inches—basically half of a standard sheet of paper. This format is compact, easy to carry, and professional-looking.

How Many Photos Should You Include?

Most model comp cards feature 4–5 images total, including:

One strong headshot (usually on the front)
3–4 additional shots that showcase your range

These additional images should include a mix of full-body, 3/4 length, and beauty shots. Aim to highlight your versatility while staying true to your personal brand and the types of modeling you want to book.

Sample of a front & back of a model comp card of a seasoned model. Full color. Main headshot in black and white.

What Types of Photos Go on a Comp Card?

Your photos should show that you’re comfortable in front of the camera and able to take direction. Great comp card shots include:

A clean beauty or close-up portrait
A strong full-length shot
Lifestyle or editorial-style images (depending on your goals)
Commercial looks if you're pursuing commercial modeling

Avoid overly stylized or heavily edited images. Your comp card should reflect what you actually look like in person—think polished but natural.

Should You Use Model Digitals or Portfolio Photos on Your Comp Card?

This is a great question—and the answer depends on where you are in your modeling journey.

If you're a new or aspiring model, your digitals (also known as polaroids) are often your strongest asset. Agencies want to see what you look like right now—no heavy styling, no dramatic editing. In fact, many new models include clean digitals on their comp card layout, especially if they haven’t built a full portfolio yet.

If you're a more experienced model or already signed to an agency, your comp card should reflect your best professional work. That means editorial, beauty, lifestyle, or commercial images that showcase your range and versatility. These polished images help you stand out at castings and go-sees.

In short:

Digitals = great for submissions to agencies and early career comp cards
Polished portfolio shots = great for bookings, go-sees, and agency-repped models

Not sure where you fall? You can always start with digitals and update your comp card as your portfolio grows!

Sample of a model comp card layout for a new face using digitals.

When Should You Use Your Comp Card?

You’ll use your comp card any time you’re meeting with:

Modeling agencies
Casting directors
Potential clients
Creative teams for test shoots

If you're attending a casting in the Washington, DC / DMV area, bring your comp card along just like you would a business card. It's your first impression—make it count!

Sample of the front of a comp card for an agency-represented model featuring a headshot and agency branding in a clean, modern layout.

Sample of the back of a comp card for an agency-represented model, featuring three photos that showcase the model's versatility, contact information, and model measurements.

To level up your modeling toolkit even more, check out my guide on how to take perfect model digitals and don't miss these essential tips for preparing for your model test shoot. These resources will help you feel confident, prepared, and ready to impress at every step of your modeling journey.

Ready to create a professional comp card that helps you get noticed? I offer fashion and beauty photography sessions in the DMV that are tailored specifically for aspiring models. We’ll shoot the images you need to build a strong comp card and portfolio from the ground up.

By the way, I also offer a quick model digital session to help you submit agency-ready polaroids with confidence.

Contact me here to start your modeling journey with confidence!

¡Hasta la vista!

Three-quarter model digital with soft expression, model looking off-camera in casual pose, natural hair flow, and minimal styling.

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