In my conversations with many commercial models and actors, many ask me to shoot their head shots. They are at least informed enough about the business to know that they need a head shot to market themselves, but it’s troubling to me that many have no idea what I mean when I ask if they also need me to shoot their Comp Card.
Commercial Comp Card
Sometimes, I’ll explain my words…then say, “Oh, maybe you know it as a “ZED” Card?” Nope! Crickets! Deer in the headlights. So, it occurred to me that there are a ton of commercial models and actors out there, perusing this business with incomplete photographic marketing tools.
Fashion/Commercial Card
Comp cards are the standard marketing tool that most models provide their agencies. Agents send out “zeds” (or “comp cards“) in response to casting calls or by request, so that potential employers can
Front
- Teen Commercial Comp
preview talent and decide who to call in for auditions or casting interviews. They are designed to show a model’s range, list their measurements and other stats and provide enough photos to let the agent and casting people get inspired on what the talent might be cast for. It actually increases your marketability and makes you more “bookable”, which is always a good thing – right?
Composite Cards, Comp Cards, and Zed Cards are exactly the same, just called by different names all over the country. They also vary by the market and how the talent is being showcased in that market. From my conversations with agents, casting people and directors, the “ZED CARD” term is basically considered an old-fashioned and outdated. (Kind of like B&W head shots!)
Teen Male Comp
Typically, a commercial model will use examples of their existing published work as material to compile their card. New talent, who don’t yet have a body of work under their belt, need a tool that provides the same impact with “ad-quality” photography that can be used until the talent has enough work to create a new comp card. I shoot a wide variety of shots based on what I know the agencies are looking for? How do I know? I talk with them. I learn from them. I know the emerging trends in shoot locations, scenarios, colors, popular character/industry types, poses, hair styles, up-and-coming fashion, etc.
I build the tool that gets my clients agents. That same tool is what that agent NEEDS to market their talent effectively.
I’m always looking out for your image! — Steve
Way to go, Steve!!!!!! Comp makes more sense anyway!!
And I’m sooooooo ready for my new shots!!! Just two more haircuts and we’ll be perfect for the new look
Great article, Steve. As my local production company goes along we are, more and more, working with spokes models just getting into the industry. How would one incorporate video work into a comp card situation? Would some sort of demo reel that included clips of their work as well as their comp card images be well received?
Traditionally, a comp card is a tool for models. It is a representation of their print work. In this digital age, the production of reels to compile an actor’s work is becoming more common. I’d say that the addition of stills into a reel could be an added benefit. The proliferation of TV hosts these days is tremendous. The amazing rise of cable and reality TV has really created a need for more interesting and attractive people (sometimes model-types) who can act and know to communicate well has create an exciting hybrid.
But – The issue with reels hasn’t changed. Getting decision makers to take the time to look at reels is always a challenge. The traditional “head shot-to-audition” seems to still be the norm in most cases, but I think it’s beginning to change. My advise – just keep the reels short and powerful. Create different reels to highlight specific skills, vs. making the decision maker sit through 3 minutes to get to the skill that’s pertinent to the audition.
Great question!