What Are Modeling Digitals and What to Wear…
So you’re dreaming of becoming a model? First of all—yes, queen! Whether you’re aiming for fashion runways or lifestyle campaigns, there’s one thing every model needs in their toolkit: what are modeling digitals and what to wear. And trust me, this tiny little phrase is the secret sauce that could open big doors.
If you’ve ever wondered what digitals are (sometimes called “polaroids”), what you should wear, and how to style your hair and makeup for them, sit tight. We’re about to demystify it all and give you the confidence to walk into your next casting like you were born ready.
What Are Modeling Digitals?
Digitals are unedited, natural photos that show agencies and clients exactly what you look like—without filters, fancy lighting, or professional retouching. Think of them as your modeling résumé in visual form.
What are modeling digitals and what to wear is a hot topic among new models because these photos are usually your first impression—and we all know how much first impressions matter in this biz.
Agencies want to see you as you, in your natural beauty, so they can envision how you might look in different settings and styles. These aren’t glamor shots. They’re the no-makeup selfie of the modeling world—but with way more impact.
How to Pose for Your Digitals
You don’t need to channel your inner supermodel just yet. Digitals are all about simplicity and posture. Typically, you’ll need:
- A headshot (smiling and non-smiling)
- A profile shot
- A full-body front-facing shot
- A full-body side and back shot
Keep it clean, relaxed, and confident. No dramatic poses or duck lips here. The key is to be poised and natural. If you can look like a blank canvas with personality, you’re doing it right.
Thanks, Romy Lea for the photo examples!
What to Wear for Your Modeling Digitals
Let’s talk outfits. The golden rule is: Keep. It. Simple.
Stick with these go-to staples:
- Fitted Jeans or Black Leggings: These should hug your body enough to show your natural shape without distracting from it.
- A Simple Tank or Fitted T-shirt: Stick to neutral tones like black, white, or gray. You want your face and body to be the focus—not your clothes.
- Heels or Bare Feet: Agencies love seeing how you carry yourself. Heels elongate your body (especially for commercial or fashion models), but if you’re going barefoot, keep your feet clean and tidy.
Absolutely no logos, patterns, or loud colors. This isn’t the time for your favorite glittery top or oversized graphic tee. Remember, you’re showcasing YOU… not your wardrobe.
Hair: Keep It Natural, But Neat
Now let’s tame the mane. Agencies want to see your true hair texture, so avoid overly styled hair for your digitals.
- Clean and Combed: Your hair should be freshly washed, brushed out, and off your face so they can see your bone structure.
- Minimal Product: Skip the hairspray and heavy styling creams.
- Down or in a Simple Ponytail: Either is fine, as long as it’s clean, tidy, and reflects your natural length and texture.
Your hair tells part of your story. Don’t over-edit it.
Makeup: Less Is So Much More
Here’s where most new models get tripped up. Digitals are NOT the time to experiment with your bold red lipstick or graphic eyeliner.
- No Foundation: If you must wear something, a light-tinted moisturizer is okay. But ideally, your natural skin should shine.
- Clear Brows, Light Mascara: Just enough to open your eyes, but not enough to be noticeable.
- No Lipstick or Contour: A dab of clear lip balm is enough.
Agencies want to see the real you. No glam, no drama, just raw beauty. That’s the power… simplicity lets YOU take the spotlight.
Bonus Tips to Slay Your Digitals
- Natural Lighting is Your BFF: Stand near a window during the day. No ring lights, no flash.
- Plain Backgrounds Only: A white or gray wall works best.
- Take Photos With a Friend or a Tripod: Keep them steady and centered.
- Be Consistent: Send fresh digitals every few months or if your appearance changes.
At the end of the day, it isn’t just about clothes or makeup… It’s about showing up confidently, authentically, and boldly as yourself. Agencies aren’t looking for perfection—they’re looking for potential.
Let your uniqueness shine through every image, and trust the process. Remember, every supermodel started with a simple digital too.
Now go snap those photos and show the world what you’ve got.
Photos
Model Romy Lea
dorothycombsmodels.com/models/romy-lea
Agency: Dorothy Combs Models
IG @romylea11
MORE: The Modern Way to Building a Modeling Portfolio: A Step-by-Step Guide
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