Lookbooks

A lookbook is essential for both the model and the designer and their collection; it acts as a personal business card. Models can advertise themselves by wearing samples from the collection at a photoshoot .

What is a lookbook?

Traditionally, a lookbook is a portfolio containing a selection of printed photographs. This allows the model or designer to present themselves in a range of different ways. Nowadays lookbooks also exist in the form of digital catalogues that can be sent by email or published on a website.

How do you create a lookbook?

During your career as a model, you will accumulate many different photographs that you can put together in a lookbook. You can even use photos that have been used in magazines and online. However, if you’re a newcomer and don’t have as many photos, you should organise a photoshoot for yourself. It is best to do this with a modelling agency and a professional photographer as both parties understand what is needed to create a good lookbook. In doing this, you can acquire suitable photographs to put into a lookbook.

What photos should you include in a lookbook?

Lookbooks should show a wide selection of photos so that the model can show her versatility. Both current and older images are crucial to show the development of a model's career. Because a model’s hairstyle, hair colour or body shape can change over time, you should keep your lookbook updated with recent photos. You should present yourself wearing stylish clothing and a full face of makeup, as well as including photos which show your more natural appearance. You should also clearly model your figure by adopting different poses and wearing figure-hugging clothing. Photos with different facial expressions are also a good addition. Designers show their latest collection in the lookbook, including sketches, cuts, fabrics and colours. If desired, previous collections should also be modelled and photographed. This gives viewers a comprehensive insight into the designers' work.

Why do you need a lookbook?

Lookbooks are a fundamental advertising measure. They allow the model or designer to present themselves clearly to an interested client. The client can then judge the photos and make a decision about collaborating with the model or designer. Therefore, you must present yourself as flexibly and variably as possible in order to guarantee that you match the desired style. For designers, the lookbook can also serve as a means of cooperation with other sectors, for example to find investors or suppliers for the collection.

What is the difference between a lookbook and a Sedcard?

The Sedcard is a concise business card that contains only a few, but expressive photos. It contains the most important information about the model or designer. A lookbook is an extensive presentation of a model’s (and a designer’s) work.

Influencer lookbooks

Influncers also use lookbooks to market their own style and their typical outfits. This can often lead to cooperation with brands or product placement deals.