How To Take Model Digitals

This guide has been put together to help aspiring talent understand how to take model digitals and everything there is to know about these important photos that should be in your modelling portfolio. Let’s learn about digitals!
how to take model digitals with examples

What Are Model Digitals?

Model digitals, also known as “polaroids”, are simple, straightforward photos that a modelling agency uses for casting purposes. They are meant to showcase a model’s natural beauty, with no makeup, a simple hairstyle and basic clothing.

The objective is to give potential clients an accurate representation of what the model looks like on a typical day, without creative lighting, professional makeup or photo editing enhancements. These images are crucial for models as they demonstrate their versatility and ability to transform into any desired look.

Examples Of Model Digitals

Below are some model digitals that effectively highlight the model’s natural features.

Indi McInnes model digital relaxed expression

This image shows the models hair length, build and relaxed expression.

Brooke Milich smiling model digital

A natural smile is an important model digital to have in your set.

Aidan Williams model digital side profile

You can see the models tattoos and their side profile in this digital.

Senuri Madola model digital front profile

This stance is relaxed and shows the models build and neutral expression.

Why Are Model Digitals Important?

Model digitals are an essential component of modelling portfolios. They serve as the most authentic look of a model, laying the groundwork for potential bookings. Agencies and clients rely heavily on these images to understand a model’s natural aesthetic, their ability to fit into different looks, and their potential to transform with the assistance of makeup artists and stylists.

Unlike typical portfolio photoshoots, where images are often retouched, digitals reveal the model’s true appearance, giving clients confidence in their selection. This is why model digitals are such an important part of a modelling portfolio that cannot be overstated.

What Do You Need To Take Model Digitals?

A Camera

This could be a professional camera or a phone with a high-quality camera. While cameras can provide high-resolution images, a good phone camera can also get the job done. Our agency accepts both phone and camera quality photos the when reviewing model applications.

Good Lighting

Natural light is best for model digitals. It’s recommended to shoot near a large window or outdoors, avoiding direct sunlight which can create harsh shadows. If shooting indoors, make sure to use a flash so that you don’t get any unwanted shadows from other sources of light.

A Plain Background

Choose a simple, uncluttered background. A white or off-white wall works best. Make sure there’s nothing in the frame that could distract from the model.

what to wear for model digitals examples

What Should You Wear For Model Digitals?

The model should wear simple, fitted clothing. We recommend a plain white or black t-shirt or singlet, paired with blue or black jeans to create the perfect combo. Another tip would be to iron your clothing and remove dust so it is less distracting and more focus can be on YOU.

Remove Accessories

Any jewellery that can be removed, should be removed, including necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings.

No Makeup

The model should be bare-faced or wear minimal makeup. This is to showcase the model’s natural features.

Natural Nails

Your nails should be clean and tidy, with either a natural or nude finish. Avoid bright distracting colours.

Clean Skin

We recommend no fake tan, just be your natural self! If you do plan on tanning this should be done by a professional to avoid any streaking or unbalanced colouring of your skin. If you’re feeling dry, moisturise your skin lightly.

How To Pose For Model Digitals

When posing for model digitals, simplicity is key.

Clients want to see you as you naturally are, so avoid overly complex or posed stances. Here are some tips:

Hands and Arms:
Let your arms hang naturally at your sides. If you’re unsure what to do with your hands, try lightly clasping them together in front of you or let them hang loosely at your sides.

Turn Around:
In some photos, turn to the side or show your back. This gives a complete 360-degree view of your physique.

Close-ups:
For close-up shots, keep your facial expression neutral, and let your natural beauty shine through.

Stand Tall
Make sure you’re standing up straight to show your full height. This also gives you a confident and professional look.

Relaxed Stance:
Keep your body relaxed rather than stiff. This will make the photographs look more natural.

Natural Expression:
Keep your face neutral and relaxed. An overly expressive or forced smile might not give the natural look that agencies want to see.

Remember, the goal of these photos is to provide an authentic representation of yourself. Avoid anything that feels overly forced or unnatural.

Tips On Selecting The Best Model Digitals

Choosing the right model digitals to send to agencies or clients can be a daunting task. However, it’s important to remember that quality is more important than quantity.

Typically, you only need 6 – 8 images that showcase your versatility, natural beauty, and ability to fit various looks.

These images should include different angles such as front, side, and 3/4 view, both full-body shots and close-ups. Pick the photos where you look most relaxed and natural.

Ready To Capture Your Model Digitals?

I hope this guide on how to take model digitals has helped you plan your next set of images, ready to apply for modelling agency or client opportunities. and remember, don’t forget to have fun and smile!

Picture of Ariel Russell
Ariel Russell
Ariel Russell, a talent manager at Fundamental Models, has been guiding and teaching new talent in the industry since 2017. With her wealth of experience in front of the camera and deep understanding of the modelling industry, she brings valuable expertise to our talent agency!