Zed /Composite Cards [Uk] & "Polaroids"
Before I get shot down in flames let me first say that there is no absolute Zed card design - often they are produced by the agencies for their talent to their design. If making your own this will act as a guide to potential presentation and content.
So lets instead think first about what a Zed card is and what it is for.
It is by design a simple information card about the model - simple as that..it should contain all the personal measurements of the model - height, chest size, inside leg even hat size - anything basically needed to guide a potential client towards using that particular model.
It is advised to be 8 x 6 in size and double sided. The size is important - it fits the filing system and the office scanner is set for it!
Now when it comes to the images this is where many will argue I am wrong, depending on their point of referance or what they have been told. If you have an agent they wil advise, or make them up.
So lets look at the purpose of the card - to quickly show the model as they would be if they walked into the office. This is the first confusion as in America for example they tend to say "use your best portfolio shots" - the trouble with that is those images tend to be "you" as a photographer or another client saw you.
As an example I have one actor/model which the camera loves - he always looks good, and slim and tall... but he actually is 5ft 7.
His portfolio images mislead in as far as he only looks short if you put him against a size referance. Another is a young look model [19] who when he takes off his shirt is covered in body art - but there is no clue to this when he is covered with a shirt. This however could be very relevant to a client/photographer in either a positive or a negative way.
So back to the cards info status, you can by all means use your best portfolio images - it is'nt actually wrong - but be sure you have Polaroids too. It is however easier surely to incoporate the two to best advantage and to ensure the Polaroids don't get seperated fromm the Zed card.
So what are Polaroids?
These images are so called due to their history. a new prospective model would be asked to stand infront of a Polaroid usually in underwear or swimwear [depending how well prepared they were] be shot full and half body front back and both sides.
The images above of Lewis give the basic idea. These images are not meant to be flattering but factual. It shows posture, any body markings, proportions etc allowing the viewer to make decisions on a consistent presentation. It does not mean that they expect to shoot the model dressed down, but simply can assess how they may look in various styles and whether they have even shoulders - that kind of thing. A Polaroid is in no way flattering - it's a means to an end.
They do not have to be shot on a Polaroid ofcourse, but often are simply because they are harder to manipulate than digital. This is why you should have the photographer confirm they are a "true likeness".
If the model does get tempted to "photoshop" they should not be surprised at getting told off for it, as it ceases to be fit for the intended purpose.
Also remember any signifigant changes to appearance should be noted and images updated.
Please note the image on this page is not a Z Card & images would often be bigger /same size with full personal info contained on it. They would also normally be in colour!!