What Is a Model Comp Card?
A model comp card is a compact visual résumé used by models and agencies. It normally combines a strong headshot, several portfolio images, physical measurements, and booking details. Casting teams use it to compare talent quickly before a test shoot, fitting, campaign, or runway selection. A polished comp card should look clean, current, and easy to scan. Strong photography matters more than decorative design because the model remains the main focus.
How to Create a Professional Comp Card
Start with a clear headshot that represents your current appearance. Add three or four supporting photographs showing variety in expression, styling, pose, and framing. Enter accurate measurements and choose one measurement system consistently. Include only contact information you are comfortable sharing. Agency-represented models often display agency booking details instead of personal contact data. Use the privacy controls above when preparing versions for different audiences.
Choosing Photos and Layouts
Use recent high-resolution images with consistent color quality. Avoid heavily filtered photographs that change skin tone, body shape, or facial structure. Commercial models often benefit from friendly lifestyle images. Editorial portfolios can use stronger fashion styling and dramatic crops. Keep typography simple and leave enough space around measurements. Before exporting, check the safe-area and bleed guides if the card will be professionally printed. Export a PDF for print and a PNG or JPG for digital submissions. CSV export is useful for agency records or batch talent management.
What to Check Before Sharing
Review every detail before sending the finished card to agencies or clients. Confirm your name, booking contact, website, measurements, hair color, and eye color. Make sure the first image works as a recognizable headshot at small sizes. Check that every photograph is upright, sharply focused, and positioned correctly inside its frame. Test the QR code with a phone before printing. Save one version with agency contact information and another privacy-focused version when needed. Finally, open the exported PDF and inspect both pages at full size before ordering prints.
Common comp card sizes
| Format | Typical size | Best use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard comp card | 5.5 × 8.5 in | Agency submissions | Classic half-letter format |
| A5 | 148 × 210 mm | International markets | Easy European printing |
| US Letter | 8.5 × 11 in | Full portfolio sheets | More room for details |
| Custom | User defined | Agency-specific branding | Confirm printer requirements |
Example measurements
| Field | Example | Alternative metric |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 5'10\" | 178 cm |
| Bust / chest | 34 in | 86 cm |
| Waist | 25 in | 64 cm |
| Hips | 35 in | 89 cm |
| Shoe | US 9 | EU 40 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many photos should a comp card include?
Most cards use one main headshot and three to five supporting images. Variety matters more than filling every available space.
Should measurements be exact?
Yes. Casting and wardrobe teams rely on current measurements. Update them whenever your size changes materially.
Which file is best for printing?
Use the PDF export for printing because it keeps the front and back together and preserves a consistent page ratio.
Can I hide my personal contact information?
Yes. Use the privacy controls to hide phone, email, age range, or measurements, and show agency contact details instead.
Are my photos uploaded to a server?
This tool processes selected images inside your browser. The included version does not upload photos to server-side storage.
Can I use metric measurements?
Yes. Select centimeters and enter measurements consistently. The label shown on the card updates to reflect your chosen unit system.
What image resolution should I use?
For print, use sharp images ideally above 1200 pixels on the shortest side. The tool warns when uploaded images are unusually small.
Can I create agency-branded cards?
Yes. Add agency name, logo, website, colors, booking contact, custom footer, and copyright information.