What are Modelling Digitals or Polaroids?
Modelling digitals or 'Polaroids' are natural, unfiltered photos without heavy makeup or image editing. They are usually requested so that casting directors, agencies and potential clients can see a model's current, natural look. These images used to be physical photos taken with an instant Polaroid camera, hence the name. While the photos are now taken digitally, they’re often still referred to as Polaroids, model polaroids or Modelling Digitals.
Model polaroids are separate to the photos in your modelling portfolio which will usually contain more stylised images you have selected from one of your fashion or head shot shoot. Requirements for polaroids will include a variety of images such as:
- Full length facing the camera
- Close-up head and shoulders
- Three quarter length
- Full length side profile
- Close up side profile
Several different shots are taken to show a model's look from various angles, to give an accurate representation of the model’s current look.
Why Do I Need Polaroids?
Polaroids are essential for your modelling career. If you’re a new model applying to agencies, you’ll probably be asked to submit some polaroids online. When the time comes to meet your agencies in person it's likely they will take new polaroids at the same time to update their record of you. In short: unedited, natural looking polaroids are essential when you are trying to achieve bookings for modelling work.
For this reason, it's important that you update your polaroids regularly so they are an accurate representation of your current appearance. Remember to update your polaroids to document any changes in your appearance such as a change in hairstyle (for example hair length or hair colour), tattoos, piercings, weight changes and cosmetic surgery. Keeping your modelling digitals up to date means clients will always have an accurate idea of what to expect when they book you for a modelling job, even if the images of you in your main portfolio look slightly different.
Can I Take Modelling Digitals on My Own?
Yes, you don't need a professional photographer to create your polaroids. However... you still want to look your best and good lighting, posing, and the correct angles are important. My digital polaroid photo shoot sessions will show you at your best while capturing images that are still natural giving agencies what they are looking for. If you would like professional shots, consider booking a session with me for your Modelling Digitals and/or headshots.
While working with a professional photographer is the best way to ensure quality photos, you can take modelling digitals/model Polaroids yourself.
My Top 10 Tips for Creating Your Own Polaroids
Here are my tips to help you get the best photos if you are taking your own at home:
- Plan ahead - the photos will be natural so look after yourself to look your best.
- If your agency has provided specific guidelines, make sure you have those to hand.
- Ideally get a friend to take your photos rather than trying to take them yourself.
- Natural light is best but try to avoid direct sunlight, which is very harsh. Wait for soft, cloudy light.
- Aim for neutral colours and tones with your clothes and background. Black, white or dark grey clothing is best.
- Pose against a white or light-coloured wall. Check there are no distractions in the background, such as windows, shelves, electrical sockets or switches.
- Your hair should be natural and makeup should be minimal.
- Don't wear fake nails or spray tan.
- If you are using your phone, check the settings to make sure it's set to take high resolution photos.
- Keep poses natural and take a good variety of shots including full body, side profiles and head/shoulders so you cover all agency requirements.
What If I Can't Take My Own Modelling Polaroids?
If you would prefer to have professional photos or you find it difficult to create your own, consider booking a Modelling Digitals/Polaroids session with me. I will work with you to create great looking digitals for you. Please contact me for information on booking.
If your agency has issued guidelines for polaroids, please bring this with you to your shoot, or email it to me beforehand so we can ensure you get the exact shots you need. Most agencies want a full-body shot, a 3/4 length shot and a close up head and shoulders shot. Some agencies may want other specific shots so they will issue their own specifications or guidelines showing their requirements. No two agencies are the same so if you don't have any specific information I will aim to meet all the popular requirements and then you know you are covered!
What Should I Wear For My Model Polaroids?
Agencies use model polaroids to see a model's natural look, showing their features and body shape, so loose, baggy clothing is usually not accepted. Form-fitting clothing in a neutral colour such as black, grey or white is best. Your footwear can be either plain shoes or heels.
Male fitness or swimwear models will often choose to have shirtless modeling digitals taken as well, to show shape. Female fitness or swimwear models may choose to have some photos in a plain black bikini which will show shape, along with plain black heels to accentuate posture.
What About hair and makeup for my modelling Polaroids?
Go for natural-looking hair and natural nails. Little to no makeup is expected - a light concealer and natural lip balm are completely fine.
Want to learn more about my photoshoots or have a question?
Interested in a photo shoot? Use the contact page to email me with any photo session ideas you may have. If you are interested in portraits or headshots, I offer sessions both outdoors and in my Kendal (Lake District) photo studio which has a wide variety of backdrops and lighting options.
Whether you need fashion photography, portrait photography, fitness photography, headshot photography, online dating profile photographs, modelling digitals for agencies, or anything else, I offer packages to suit all budgets.
I look forward to hearing from you!