What is a Z-card, and why does it matter?

The small, essential calling card of the modelling world.

A Z-card (or “comp card”) is a compact, folded card carrying your best images and key details — the modelling industry’s version of a business card.

UK Models designs Z-cards that are clean, professional and easy for agencies and clients to keep on file.

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A small card that does a lot of work

A Z-card folds out to show a handful of your strongest images alongside your basic details — height, measurements, hair and eye colour, contact information.

It’s designed to be handed over, kept in a folder, and pulled out again when a client is casting for a particular look.

Small, simple, and genuinely useful at castings and networking events.

What to include

The essentials

A good Z-card keeps to the essentials, laid out clearly.

  • A strong headshot on the front
  • Three or four varied images showing your range
  • Your key measurements and details
  • Clear, current contact information

Everything on it should be accurate and current — a Z-card with outdated details does you no favours, however good the images are.

Layout matters more than you’d think

A cluttered card is hard to read at a glance, and glancing is often exactly what happens with it. Clean layout and good image choices make the difference.

We design each one to be simple to scan, with your strongest image doing the initial work.

It should take seconds to make a good impression.

Built from your portfolio

Your Z-card draws directly from your portfolio, so the two work together rather than sending mixed messages about your look, whichever a client sees first.

Consistency between the two makes you easier to remember and easier to place.

We keep both updated together, so neither one ever falls behind the other or sends a mixed message.

Handy at castings and networking

A physical Z-card is quick to hand over at a casting, an event, or a chance meeting — far easier than exchanging long email threads on the spot.

Plenty of useful modelling contacts start exactly that way. It’s a small, practical tool worth having on you.

We can produce a set you can carry with confidence.

How UK Models can help

We’ll design a Z-card that’s clean, accurate and genuinely useful — built from your strongest images and your real details, and easy to keep updated.

A small card, but a genuinely useful first impression at every casting, interview or chance meeting.

If you’d like one put together properly for you, we’d genuinely love to hear from you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Z-card?
A Z-card (also called a comp card or sed card) is a printed card featuring your best images on one side and your measurements and contact details on the other. It is the industry-standard leave-behind at castings and meetings.
How many images go on a Z-card?
Typically four to six images: a strong headshot on the front and a selection of different looks on the back, along with your stats.
Do I still need a Z-card in the digital age?
Yes. Despite the rise of digital portfolios, Z-cards remain widely used at castings and go-sees. Having a physical card to leave behind makes you memorable.
How many Z-cards should I order?
That depends on how actively you are attending castings. A batch of 50 to 100 is a common starting point and can be topped up as needed.
Can I design my own Z-card?
You can, but a professionally designed Z-card looks more polished and follows industry conventions. Our team designs yours to present you in the best possible light.