The Ultimate Guide to Modeling Digitals
Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced model, having strong, professional modeling digitals is essential. This guide covers everything you need to know to create digitals that make an impact.
What Are Modeling Digitals?
Modeling digitals—also known as “digitals,” “Polaroids,” or “Polas”—are a set of simple, unedited photographs that show your natural look. They are one of the most important tools for getting signed and booked in the modeling industry.
Digitals provide agencies and clients with a clear, honest view of what you look like in real life—no retouching, no filters. Typically shot against a clean white background with soft lighting, they showcase your body proportions, facial structure, and unique features.
Why Are Modeling Digitals So Important?
While some models opt for DIY digitals, professional-quality images can significantly increase your chances of catching the attention of agencies and clients. With my extensive experience in lighting, posing, and composition, I know how to create digitals that help you stand out in a highly competitive industry.
First Impressions: Digitals are often the first thing an agency sees—and can determine whether they invite you in or move on.
Authenticity: Agencies and clients need to see the real you—natural hair, natural skin, and genuine expressions.
Industry Standard: Professional digitals aren’t optional—they’re expected and a current set of digitals is an essential part of every model’s portfolio.
What Makes a Great Set of Digitals?
A strong set of digitals includes a range of clean, simple poses and expressions:
- Angles and Distances: Full-body, 3/4-length, and headshot images, facing front and side.
- Natural Posing: Simple, natural body language without over-posing.
- Expressions: A mix of neutral and slight expressions that showcase your personality and versatility.
Your outfit should be simple and form-fitting to show your shape without distraction. For women, a fitted tank, bodysuit, or t-shirt with jeans or leggings works well; for men, a fitted t-shirt or tank with jeans or joggers is recommended. Solid, neutral colors like black, white, or gray are best.
For a second optional look, women may wear a plain black or white bikini, and men may go shirtless with fitted swim trunks or shorts—only if your agency requires it.
My Approach to Modeling Digitals
Guided Posing: I coach you in real time to get your best angles and expressions.
Immediate Image Selection: You’ll review and choose your images right after your session.
Fast Turnaround: In most cases, your digitals will be delivered the same day!
What’s the difference between a headshot and modeling digitals?
A headshot is usually a retouched, polished photo designed to show your personality. Digitals are simple, unedited images that show your natural look, proportions, and potential—exactly what agencies and clients want to see when considering new talent.
Do you Do Modeling Headshots, Test Shoots, and Styled Portfolio Photos?
Yes! In addition to digitals, I offer modeling headshots, test shoots, and creative portfolio sessions. If you want to combine different types of shoots into one day, let’s talk—we can tailor the session to fit your needs.
How much do digitals cost?
Professional modeling digitals are an investment in your career.
While some models DIY their digitals to save money, low-quality images can actually hurt your chances with agencies. Experienced photographers know how to capture clean, flattering images that show your potential and elevate your submissions.
Typical professional pricing ranges from $150–$500 or more depending on the market and photographer experience.
Although I bring over 20 years of experience to the table, I’ve intentionally kept my pricing accessible to help more models launch or grow their careers.
(Current pricing and booking details are listed below.)
