Model comp card: what it is, sizes & free templates

What Is a Model Comp Card?

A comp card — also called a zed card or sed card — is the modeling industry's version of a business card. It is a printed or digital card that features your best photos alongside your key measurements and contact information. Casting directors, clients, and agencies use comp cards to quickly evaluate whether a model is right for a particular job.

Think of it as your resume and headshot combined into one polished, easy-to-reference document. Every working model needs one, and it is often the first thing a client sees before deciding whether to call you in for a casting.

Standard Comp Card Sizes

The industry has settled on a few standard sizes. Using the correct dimensions matters because casting directors expect a uniform format and anything non-standard can look unprofessional.

• 5.5" x 8.5" (Half Letter): The most common size in North America. Easy to print, easy to file, and fits neatly into standard casting folders.
• A5 (148mm x 210mm): The standard in Europe and much of the international market. Nearly identical in feel to the half-letter size.
• 6" x 9": Used by some agencies, particularly for models with extensive portfolios who want slightly more space for images.

Most agencies will tell you exactly which size they prefer. When in doubt, go with 5.5" x 8.5" — it is the safest choice.

What to Include on Your Comp Card

A well-designed comp card is clean and uncluttered. Every element should serve a purpose.

Front Side

• One strong hero image. This should be your absolute best photo — the one that makes someone stop and look. It is usually a headshot or a three-quarter shot with a clean background.
• Your name. Displayed prominently, typically near the top or bottom of the image.

Back Side

• Three to four additional photos. These should show your range. Include a mix of looks — a beauty shot, a full-body shot, a lifestyle or editorial image, and something that shows personality.
• Your measurements. List the essentials clearly:
  • Height
  • Bust/Chest
  • Waist
  • Hips
  • Shoe size
  • Dress/suit size
  • Hair color
  • Eye color
• Contact information. Your agency name, phone number, and website. If you are freelance, include your professional email and social media handle.

What Not to Include

• Multiple fonts or decorative borders
• More than five photos total
• Outdated images (update your comp card at least once a year)
• Personal contact details if you are represented by an agency — let all inquiries go through them

Tips for Choosing Your Comp Card Photos

The photos on your comp card can make or break your bookings. Here is what casting directors actually respond to.

1. Lead with your strongest image. The front photo should be current, high-quality, and immediately engaging. Natural lighting and a relaxed expression tend to perform best.
2. Show versatility on the back. If your front image is editorial, include a commercial smile on the back. If your hero shot is a beauty close-up, include a full-length image that shows your proportions.
3. Keep retouching minimal. Light skin retouching is fine, but do not alter your proportions or features. Clients will meet you in person, and your comp card needs to look like you.
4. Use professional photography. Unlike digitals, comp card images should come from professional shoots. Test shoots, editorial work, or campaign images all work well.
5. Avoid busy backgrounds. The focus should be on you, not the scenery. Simple backdrops, studio settings, and muted environments work best.

Before you can build your comp card, you need the right photos. Read our guide on how to take modeling digitals to make sure your foundational images are agency-ready.

How to Create Your Comp Card

You have several options depending on your budget and skill level.

Option 1: Through Your Agency

Most agencies create comp cards for their models as part of the onboarding process. They handle the design, printing, and distribution. This is the easiest route and ensures the card meets industry standards.

Option 2: Professional Design

If you are freelance or want more control, hire a graphic designer who has experience with model comp cards. Expect to pay between $50-150 for a custom design. Provide your photos as high-resolution files (at least 300 DPI for print).

Option 3: Use a Template

Pre-made comp card templates are available through design platforms and specialized modeling tools. A good template gives you a professional layout that you can customize with your own photos and information. Look for templates that use the standard 5.5" x 8.5" size and include bleed marks for printing.

Option 4: Build One Online for Free

The Model Guide offers a free comp card builder that lets you create a professional card in minutes. Upload your photos, enter your measurements, choose a layout, and download a print-ready PDF — no design skills needed. Build your comp card for free →

Printing Your Comp Card

When printing physical comp cards, pay attention to these details.

• Paper stock: Use a heavy cardstock, typically 14pt or 16pt. Matte or satin finishes look more professional than glossy.
• Quantity: Start with 50-100 cards. You will hand these out at castings, leave them with clients, and distribute them at industry events.
• Print quality: Use a professional printing service rather than your home printer. The difference in quality is immediately noticeable.
• Keep extras on hand. Always carry at least five comp cards with you. You never know when an opportunity will come up.

When to Update Your Comp Card

Your comp card should evolve as your career does. Update it when any of the following happen:

• Your measurements change significantly
• You get a major haircut or color change
• You book work that produces stronger images than what is currently on the card
• It has been more than 12 months since your last update
• You switch agencies

A comp card is a working document, not a keepsake. Keep it current, keep it clean, and make sure it represents the best version of your professional self.

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Ready to put your card together? Build your free comp card on The Model Guide and get started today. New to modeling entirely? Read our complete beginner's guide to becoming a model first. Need help writing the bio section? See our guide on how to write a model bio — with templates for every experience level.