The Importance of Digitals for Models looking to get signed.
- Andrea DeLong
- 20 hours ago
- 4 min read
In the competitive world of modeling, standing out is essential. One of the most powerful tools aspiring models can use today is modeling digitals often called a "digitals" or "polaroids." These simple, natural photos are the gateway to getting noticed by agencies and clients. Without strong digitals, even the most talented models may struggle to get signed or booked. This post explores why digital models are crucial, how to create effective ones, and how they can shape your modeling career. Plus, i will share some super exciting news about where Bailey got signed and what this means for his career.
What Are Digital Models and Why Do They Matter?
Digital models are straightforward photos that show your natural look without heavy makeup, elaborate styling, or heavy editing. They usually include:
A clean face shot
A profile shot
A full-body shot in simple clothing
3/4 Shot
Agencies and clients use these photos to assess your natural features, body proportions, and potential for different types of modeling work. Unlike professional portfolio shots, digitals reveal your true appearance, helping decision-makers see how you might fit their needs and are updated with any major change that you have in your appearance. Active models are updating around every three months.
Why Agencies Demand Digitals
Modeling agencies receive thousands of applications. Digitals help them quickly filter candidates by providing a clear, honest view of each model. These photos save time and resources by showing who has the right look before investing in professional shoots or meetings.
Digitals also show your ability to present yourself professionally. A well-made digital set demonstrates that you understand the industry’s expectations and can follow directions, which is a valuable skill for any model.
How to Create Effective Digital Models
Creating strong digitals is about simplicity and clarity. Here are key tips to keep in mind:
Use Natural Lighting
Avoid harsh artificial lights or heavy shadows. Natural daylight, especially near a window, gives the most accurate representation of your skin tone and features.
Keep Makeup Minimal
The goal is to show your natural face. Use little to no makeup, just enough to even out your skin tone if needed. Avoid heavy contouring or bright colors.
Choose Simple Clothing
Wear plain, fitted clothes like a white t-shirt and jeans or a black tank top and leggings. Avoid patterns, logos, or anything that distracts from your body shape.
Show Different Angles
Include a front-facing headshot, a profile shot, and a full-body photo. This variety helps agencies see your proportions and how you carry yourself.
Maintain Good Posture
Stand straight and relaxed. Avoid exaggerated poses or forced smiles. Confidence and natural posture make a strong impression.
Examples of Successful Use of Digitals
Many top models started their careers with just a set of digitals. For example, Gigi Hadid’s early submissions to agencies were simple photos taken by her mother. These honest images helped agencies see her potential without distractions.
Another example is Adut Akech, who was discovered through digitals sent to an agency. Her natural look and clear photos made her stand out in a sea of heavily styled images.
These stories show that you don’t need expensive shoots to get noticed. Clear, honest digitals can open doors to major contracts and runway shows.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with Digitals
Even though digitals are simple, many aspiring models make avoidable errors:
Using heavy filters or editing that change your appearance
Wearing flashy or loose clothing that hides your shape
Taking photos in poor lighting or cluttered backgrounds
Over-posing or using unnatural facial expressions
Avoiding these mistakes ensures your digitals represent you accurately and professionally.
How Digitals Help You Get Signed
Agencies look for models who fit their current needs. Digitals provide a quick way to evaluate if your look matches their clients’ demands. When your digitals are clear and professional, you increase your chances of:
Getting invited for in-person interviews or test shoots
Being added to agency rosters
Booking jobs with clients who trust the agency’s selections
Digitals also help you build trust with agencies. They show you respect the process and are serious about your career.
Tips for Sending Your Digitals
When submitting digitals, follow these guidelines:
Send high-resolution images without heavy compression
Include your basic stats: height, measurements, shoe size
Write a brief, polite message introducing yourself
Follow the agency’s submission rules carefully
Personalizing your message and showing professionalism can make a positive impression beyond the photos.
The Role of Digitals in the Digital Age
With the rise of online submissions, digitals have become even more important. Agencies often receive digital portfolios through email or online forms. Having strong digitals ready means you can apply quickly to many agencies worldwide.
Digitals also serve as a foundation for your online presence. They can be used on modeling platforms, casting websites, and social media profiles to attract attention from scouts and clients.
Bailey, GOT SIGNED.
The big news..... Bailey got signed to Wilhelmina NYC, Milan, LA and Miami. Within the week he was off to NYC for his first editorial shoot. This all started with simple digitals now is moving to the big city and to travel the world. I am over the moon for him and i can't wait to see his face on campaigns from the largest brands around the world.
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