Modeling digitals allow both clients and agencies the ability to see what a model naturally looks like. These unedited images are standard for the modeling industry, and even signed models typically update their modeling digitals every few months, or if there are major changes to their look such as a change in hair color/style, tattoos, weight loss/gain, etc. It’s important to have updated current modeling digitals on-file.

Yes! Do you need me to take your modeling digitals? Absolutely, not. However, lighting, posing, and angles are key. Since I’m well versed in this area, I know key things to look for when shooting, and if the goal is to get the most professional shots possible, you can book a session with me for your Modeling Digitals and/or optional headshots. However, if you wish to take digitals yourself, here are some tips to follow: Be sure to see some of my examples posted here, and read this page in its entirety. If you don’t have studio lighting gear at home, soft natural lighting is especially important. Don’t take selfies in front of a mirror in your bathroom. If you are going to take these images at home, have a friend take your photos, and try to find a white or light colored wall with a large window nearby for natural light. Hopefully the wall will be free of electrical outlets and cords, and can show you in a full-length shot. The ideal weather for this natural lighting look would be a cloudy day, for soft natural light that isn’t harsh. Check the agency guidelines for agencies you would like to apply to, and also search “modeling digitals” for sample poses that work best for digitals. Keep it natural, do not edit your photos, and try to capture the real you! If you find this is difficult, our would like to book a modeling digitals session, please contact me for information on booking a session.

Almost all agencies want a standard full-body shot, a quarter-turn shot from various angles, and a close up face shot. These images should be in a relaxed pose for a natural look. However, some agencies may want specific angles as per their submission specs/guidelines, so if you’re planning on submitting modeling digitals to a specific agency (or multiple agencies) it’s important to preview their guidelines before our shoot. If they have a spec sheet or guidelines, please bring these guidelines to the shoot, or submit them to me via email before our shoot so we can ensure you get the exact shots and angles you need. Since no two agencies are the same in their requirements, when shooting modeling digitals, I try to shoot every common requirement from agencies so that you’re covered when booking a modeling digitals package. This includes multiple styles, hair up/down, various poses, and so on.

Agencies really want to see a model in a natural look to show their features and shape. Loose, baggy clothing is not acceptable. This means, form-fitting clothing that is not busy, and has a neutral color.

WOMEN: For fashion-oriented models, women will ideally wear black jeans/leggings and a form-fitting neutral-colored tank-top that is either black or white. For fitness or swimwear models, black bikinis are often worn to show shape, along with black heels are ideal to compliment this look. High heels are recommended but not required, as they are an acceptable “cheat”, often times making models appear taller and accentuating proper posture. For jeans/leggings colors, it’s safe to go with black jeans/leggings and a form-fitting tank-top that is either black or white.

MEN: For fashion-oriented models, men should ideally wear form-fitting jeans and a neutral form-fitting top. You cannot go wrong with black jeans and a slim cut black t-shirt. For fitness or swimwear models, men often take shirtless modeling digitals as well to show shape.

The goal of modeling digitals is to make you naturally standout among neutral tones. Clothing with bright or busy patterns are not to be used as they detract from the natural look.

Since these images are all about marketing you as you are, it’s best if you stick to how you naturally present yourself. If you’re not the smiley type, then I won’t push you to give great big cheesy grins. In fact casual, soft smiles are just fine, the most important thing for me, is making sure that your eyes shine with your personality. It’s important to remember that just like loud makeup/clothing/nails loud expressions can also distract from your natural appearance. We’re aiming for professionalism, so extreme/loud poses and expressions ought to be avoided.