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Want to Take Digitals At Home?
February 18, 2025
How to Take Model Digitals at Home
Creating standout model digitals from home doesn’t require a studio—just the right setup, a little planning, and confidence. These natural, unedited photos are a key part of getting noticed by modeling agencies and clients, so every detail matters. Let’s walk through how to set yourself up for success, right from your own space.
Key Takeaways
- Choose a well-lit, neutral space to keep the focus on you.
- Use a high-resolution camera or phone with a tripod and timer or remote shutter.
- Wear solid-colored, form-fitting clothing to showcase your shape without distractions.
- Keep hair and makeup minimal to highlight your natural beauty.
- Capture a variety of images: headshots, full-body, and side profiles with consistent lighting.
Why Model Digitals Matter
Model digitals (also called polaroids) show your unfiltered, natural look—no retouching, no glam. Agencies use them to evaluate your authentic features, proportions, and versatility. Regularly updating your digitals—around every three months—keeps your portfolio fresh and accurately reflects any changes in your appearance.
Think of them as your modeling resume: simple, clean, and essential for booking gigs.
Setting Up the Perfect Space
Your background should be plain—white, grey, or beige walls work best. Natural lighting is your best friend, so find a spot near a large window and shoot during the day. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent harsh shadows or blown-out highlights.
Make sure the area is tidy, distraction-free, and big enough for full-body shots without cropping.
💡 Pro tip: Take a few test shots to see how the light hits your face and body before starting your shoot.
The Gear You’ll Need
- Smartphone or Camera: A phone with a good camera is totally fine—just make sure the lens is clean!
- Tripod: To keep your framing steady and consistent.
- Remote shutter or timer: For hands-free shots that let you move freely into your poses.
- Ring light (optional): If natural light isn’t available, a soft light source will do the trick.
Get the Lighting Right
Lighting can make or break your digitals. Use soft, even natural light from a window—early morning or late afternoon (golden hour) is ideal. If indoors, avoid using your ceiling light, which can cast unflattering shadows. Stick with one lighting source to keep your look consistent across all images.
Posing Basics for Digitals
Keep it simple and confident. You’re not trying to sell a product—you’re showing off you.
Capture the following:
- Headshots: Smiling and neutral expression
- 3/4 Head Turn: With and without eye contact
- Full Body: Front-facing and side profile
- Natural Poses: Stand tall, keep hands relaxed, and avoid over-posing
Practice in front of a mirror to find your angles and get comfortable. Agencies want to see your structure, not dramatic poses or fashion expressions.
What to Wear
Stick to classic model digitals attire:
- Fitted solid-colored top (preferably black or white)
- Dark skinny jeans or leggings
- Heels (for women) to elongate your shape
Avoid loud prints, logos, or oversized clothing. If swimwear is requested, go for simple, solid-colored suits that fit well and aren’t overly styled.
Hair & Makeup: Keep It Clean
Agencies want to see your natural beauty. Ideally, wear no makeup at all. If needed, use minimal products—just enough to even your skin tone. Think tinted moisturizer, groomed brows, and clear lips.
Hair should be neat and out of your face—tied back or tucked behind your ears. Skip the accessories and keep nails clean or neutral.
Final Steps & Submitting Your Digitals
Once you’ve taken your photos:
- Review and choose the clearest, best-lit shots.
- Ensure consistency across lighting and framing.
- Include your height, measurements, hair/eye color, and location in your submission.
- Save your images in high-resolution and organize them by type (headshot, profile, full-body, etc.).
Keep your digitals updated every few months or whenever your look changes. A current set helps you stay competitive and gives clients an accurate picture of what to expect.
Wrapping Up: Mastering Your Home Digitals
Taking professional-quality model digitals at home is totally doable. With the right lighting, setup, and simple styling, you’ll be able to confidently show off your natural look and appeal to agencies. Keep it authentic, stay consistent, and don’t forget to update your shots regularly as your career evolves.
Ready to take the next step? Book a 60-minute model coaching call with me and get personalized feedback on your digitals and poses!
