Comp card sizes
| Standard | Trim size | With bleed |
|---|---|---|
| US | 5.5 × 8.5 in | 5.75 × 8.75 in (0.125 in bleed) |
| Europe (A5) | 148 × 210 mm | 154 × 216 mm (3 mm bleed) |
Agencies in the US and Canada usually ask for 5.5 × 8.5 in; most European agencies use A5. If you are signed, use your agency's template and size. More detail in comp card sizes.
The front: one image that books work
Use a clean, current headshot or a strong beauty shot that looks like you on the day of a casting: natural hair and make-up, good light, eyes to camera. Your name goes on the front, usually in capitals, with your agency's name and city if you have one.
The back: show range in three to five images
- A full-length shot in fitted clothes, so clients can see proportions.
- A close beauty or headshot from a different angle from the front.
- An editorial or fashion image with movement or styling.
- A commercial image with a natural smile, if you work in that market.
- A lifestyle or swimwear image only if it suits the work you want.
Avoid repeating the same look. Each image should answer a different question for the client.
The stats
Measurements go on the back, in the units of the market you are working in. Be accurate: you will be measured at castings, and a card that does not match wastes everyone's time.
| Women | Men |
|---|---|
| Height | Height |
| Bust | Chest |
| Waist | Waist |
| Hips | Inseam |
| Dress size | Suit size |
| Shoes | Shoes |
| Hair and eyes | Hair and eyes |
Printing
Print shops want a two-page PDF, front and back, at the exact trim size plus bleed, with crop marks. Keep names and stats at least 3 mm (0.125 in) inside the trim so nothing is cut off. A heavy matte or silk card stock feels professional and does not show fingerprints. Order small runs and update the card whenever your look changes.
The comp card maker exports a print-ready two-page PDF with bleed and crop marks, in inches or centimetres, for both US and A5 sizes.
Comp cards and digitals
Digitals (or polaroids) are plain, unretouched photos in fitted clothes against a simple background: front, side, back, close-up and smile. Agencies ask for them alongside the comp card because they show exactly what you look like today. See model digitals and model polaroids.