How to create a sedcard in Hamburg — guide, costs & tips

Your sedcard is your ticket into the modelling world — and it lives or dies by the photos

You want to break into modelling, but you still need a professional sedcard? Then you are in the right place. This guide explains from the ground up what a sedcard is, what belongs on it, and how to create one — whether digital or printed. If you already know you need photos, here is how a sedcard shoot works at our studio.

Contents

Whether you want to apply to a model agency for the first time, get ready for castings, or simply build a professional portfolio — without a convincing sedcard backed by high-quality photos, nothing happens in the modelling industry.

The problem: most aspiring models have no idea what belongs on a sedcard, which photos agencies actually want to see, or what really matters at a sedcard session. In this guide we explain everything you need to know — from the contents and the most common mistakes to what a professional sedcard session in Hamburg costs at BEAUTYSHOTS.

What exactly is a sedcard?

A sedcard is a model's professional business card — it shows your look, your range, and your contact details at a glance. It is used to apply to model agencies, for castings, and to introduce yourself to clients. Without a sedcard, a serious application in the modelling industry is practically impossible.

The classic sedcard — sometimes called a setcard or comp card — is a double-sided sheet in A5 format. The front carries one strong portrait, the back several shots in different looks plus your measurements and contact details. Simple, clear — and still enormously effective when it is done well.

Alongside the printed version there is, of course, the digital sedcard. Model agencies showcase their talent online in databases, and platforms like Modelscouting24 or CASTFORWARD let you build your sedcard digitally and send it straight to agencies. But whether digital or printed — no sedcard works without professional photos.

Who needs a sedcard?

A sedcard is not just for classic runway models. Anyone who wants to market themselves professionally for photo, film, or advertising work needs a sedcard as their application document. That covers a whole range of professions and ambitions.

Models and newcomers

Whether you are a photo model, a commercial model, or a plus-size model — the sedcard is your most important tool when you apply. As a newcomer without references especially, high-quality sedcard photos are your strongest argument for standing out at a model agency in Hamburg or anywhere in Germany.

Actors and performers

Actors use sedcards too, to introduce themselves to agencies and casting directors. Here the focus leans more on expression and range — versatility in mood and emotion.

Hosts, promoters, and extras

In the events and advertising world, agencies also rely on sedcards to present their people to clients. Anyone who wants to be booked regularly for trade fairs, promotions, or as an extra benefits from a professional sedcard.

What belongs on a sedcard?

A professional sedcard carries exactly the information a client or agency needs to size you up in seconds. Here are the four elements that belong on every sedcard.

Your photos — the heart of the sedcard

Four to six professional shots that show your range. At a minimum, include:

• A portrait (close-up of the face) — your main image on the front
• A full-body shot in figure-hugging clothing
• A black-and-white photo for expression and contrast
• 1–2 shots in different styles — for example elegant vs. sporty, or business vs. casual

Important: the photos have to be current and show your natural look. Agencies want to see range — not the same pose in the same outfit five times over.

Your personal details

First and last name, height, clothing size, measurements (bust/waist/hips), shoe size, hair colour, and eye colour. For female models, add bust size and cup size; for male models, collar size.

Contact details

Email address and phone number. If you are already with an agency, their contact details go here instead of your own.

Optional, but worth adding

Special skills (dancing, riding, martial arts), languages, social media handles, and — if you have them — references from previous jobs.

Digital sedcard vs. printed sedcard — what do you need today?

The printed sedcard was the industry standard for decades. Today most applications go out digitally — by email or through model platforms. Even so, the printed version is far from obsolete.

Digital sedcard

The digital sedcard is used as a PDF or through online profiles on platforms like CASTFORWARD, Modelscouting24, or your agency's database. It is quick to send, easy to update, and costs nothing extra to print. For most agency applications, the digital version is the standard today.

Printed sedcard

For go-sees, open castings, and in-person meetings at agencies, a printed sedcard is still a must. You literally leave something in the booker's hand — and that sticks in the memory far better than one of a hundred emails in the inbox.

Our recommendation: get both made. Good sedcard photos work for both formats. At your sedcard session at BEAUTYSHOTS you receive your photos in full digital resolution — so you can build both the digital and the printed version.

The 5 most common sedcard mistakes

Model agencies sift through dozens of applications a day. The following mistakes land your sedcard straight on the reject pile — no matter how well suited you would be as a model.

Mistake 1: selfies and phone snaps

The single biggest mistake. No matter how good your smartphone is — selfies, mirror photos, and shots taken by your best friend do not belong on a sedcard. Full stop. Agencies spot a non-professional photo instantly and reject everything else outright. Professional studio lighting, the right focal length, and an experienced photographer make a difference no filter in the world can replace.

Mistake 2: only one look

When all your photos look the same — same outfit, same pose, same expression — you show no range. And range is exactly what agencies want to see. Your sedcard should prove that you can be booked for different clients and different campaigns.

Mistake 3: too much editing

Filters, Facetune, and heavy retouching are an absolute no-go. Agencies want to see what you really look like — not an edited version of you. Of course professional sedcard photos are colour-corrected and given a basic edit, but your face and figure have to stay authentic.

Mistake 4: outdated photos

Your sedcard photos should always reflect how you look right now. If you have since dyed your hair, lost or gained 10 kilos, or completely changed your styling, you need fresh shots. Nothing is more awkward than turning up to a casting looking nothing like your pictures.

Mistake 5: no professional make-up

At a first sedcard session especially, many people underestimate the difference professional make-up makes. It is not about disguising you — it is about showing your best side perfectly. An experienced make-up artist knows exactly which make-up works best for which look and which lighting situation. At BEAUTYSHOTS, professional make-up is already included in the model/sedcard session.

Sedcard session in Hamburg — how it works at BEAUTYSHOTS

A sedcard session at BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg in Hamburg-Altona takes 30–60 minutes and starts at €79, including professional make-up and one fully edited digital image. Since 2004 we have had hundreds of models in front of the camera — from the absolute newcomer to the seasoned pro — and our model/sedcard photo session is tailored specifically to what model agencies expect.

What's included in the session

• Professional make-up by our make-up artist — matched to your type and the different looks
• Up to 50–80 different shots in a range of styles, each one composed individually
• Professional studio lighting and several backdrop options
• A shared image selection on screen right after the session
• 1 fully edited photo in full digital resolution included in the price

What does a sedcard session in Hamburg cost?

Our model/sedcard session starts at €79, including make-up and one finished photo. You can add more images right after the session, on the spot — with no obligation to buy. For a complete sedcard we recommend at least 5–6 different shots.

You will find an overview of all prices and photo packages on our pricing page. Compared with many other photo studios, at BEAUTYSHOTS you get a complete package — make-up, professional studio lighting, and personal direction — at a fair price.

How do I book?

Easily, through our online shop. After booking you can pick your preferred slot right in the online calendar — we are here for you seven days a week. If you still have questions, you can reach us any time by phone at 040 / 18 00 88 0 or by email at hamburg@beauty-shots.de.

Tips for your sedcard session

To make your session as good as it can be, here are the most important tips from our experience with hundreds of sedcard sessions:

Prep your outfits: bring at least 3–4 different outfits. A natural look (fitted pants or leggings + a solid-colour top), an elegant outfit, a sporty one, and something casual. Avoid big logos, loud patterns, and too many accessories — you should be the focus, not your clothes. More on this in our detailed outfit guide.

Come without make-up: please arrive at the studio bare-faced. Our make-up artist builds the look from scratch and tunes everything to your different outfit changes.

Prep your hair: come with freshly washed hair, but go easy on the styling product. That gives us the most options for different looks.

Stay relaxed: you need zero experience in front of the camera. Our photographer guides you through every pose and gives you clear direction. Most of our 25,000-plus customers had never stood in front of a professional camera before — and you would never guess it from the photos.

Loose clothing on the way to the session: tight bra straps and sock cuffs leave marks on the skin that stay visible for hours. Wear loose clothing without tight elastic — especially if a full-body shot in figure-hugging clothing is on the plan.

Gather inspiration: take a look at our model/sedcard gallery page beforehand, or browse model agency websites to get a feel for which looks are in demand. Our blog post with photo session ideas for women can spark ideas too.

What our customers say

With more than 25,000 customers since 2004 and a 4.9/5-star rating across 246-plus reviews, BEAUTYSHOTS is one of the best-rated photo studios in Hamburg. Plenty of aspiring models have had their first professional sedcard photos taken with us — and gone on to apply to agencies successfully.

You will find real customer reviews on our reviews page. The feedback we hear most often: the relaxed atmosphere, the professional direction, and the fact that even complete camera novices walk away with images that look like they came from a seasoned pro model.

Your next step: book a sedcard session

A professional sedcard is the foundation of any modelling career — and the most important step you can take today. Whether you are applying to an agency for the first time or refreshing an existing portfolio, we guide you from make-up through the session to the finished image selection.

Book your model/sedcard session starting at €79 right now in our online shop — or give it as a gift voucher. We are here for you whenever you have questions:

📞 040 / 18 00 88 0 (around the clock)
📧 hamburg@beauty-shots.de

Frequently asked questions about creating a sedcard

What is a sedcard and what do I need it for?

A sedcard is a model's professional business card. It carries 4–6 high-quality photos in different looks, personal details like height and measurements, and contact information. Model agencies, casting directors, and clients use the sedcard to size up a model in seconds. Without a professional sedcard, a serious application in the modelling industry is not possible.

What does a sedcard session at BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg cost?

A sedcard session at BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg starts at €79 and includes professional make-up by a make-up artist plus one fully edited digital image in full resolution. More photos can be added after the session with no obligation to buy. For a complete sedcard we recommend at least 5–6 different shots.

Do I need modelling experience for a sedcard session?

No, you need no experience in front of the camera at all. At BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg the photographer guides you through every pose and gives you clear direction on posture, expression, and where to look. Most of our customers stand in front of a professional camera for the first time — and you would never guess it from the finished photos.

How many photos do I need for a sedcard?

For a complete sedcard we recommend 4–6 different photos that show range. That includes at least one portrait, one full-body shot, a black-and-white image, and 1–2 shots in different styles. At BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg one finished photo is included in the session price, and more images can be added right after the session.

Who needs a sedcard?

A sedcard matters for anyone who wants to market themselves professionally for photo, film, or advertising work. That includes models, actors, extras, hosts, and promoters. Newcomers without an agency need a sedcard too, in order to apply to model agencies for the first time. The sedcard serves as the standard application document across the whole industry.

Should I have a digital or a printed sedcard?

Ideally both. The digital sedcard is the standard today for online applications by email and on model platforms like CASTFORWARD or Modelscouting24. The printed sedcard is still used for go-sees, open castings, and in-person meetings at agencies. Since the same photos work for both formats, investing in a professional session is the foundation either way.

What should I wear to a sedcard session?

Bring at least 3–4 different outfits that show range: a natural look (fitted pants + a solid-colour top), something elegant, something sporty, and a casual look. Avoid big logos, loud patterns, and too many accessories. Solid colours work best. You will find a detailed outfit guide on the BEAUTYSHOTS Hamburg website.

How does a sedcard session at BEAUTYSHOTS work?

After booking through the online shop, you pick your preferred slot in the online calendar. On the day of the session, the make-up artist starts with the professional make-up (about 20–35 minutes). Then our photographer shoots you in different looks and outfits (30–60 minutes, up to 50–80 shots). Afterwards you choose your favourite images together with the photographer on screen.