Why digitals matter more than a portfolio
Digitals, sometimes called polaroids, show an agency exactly what you look like today. Scouts use them to judge your bone structure, skin, proportions and presence. A polished shoot can hide those things, which is why every application to Brew starts with simple photos. Our step-by-step guide to becoming a model explains where digitals fit in the bigger picture.
Set up your light
Stand facing a large window in the morning or late afternoon. Avoid direct midday sun, which creates harsh shadows, and avoid overhead indoor lights, which change your skin tone. A plain white or light grey wall behind you keeps the focus on you.
What to wear
Women: a fitted black vest or bodysuit with skinny jeans or shorts. Men: a fitted plain T-shirt or vest with slim jeans. Keep jewellery off, hair natural and pulled back from the face for one set of shots, and makeup minimal or none.
The four shots every agency asks for
1. A straight-on headshot, neutral expression. 2. A side profile. 3. A full-length shot from head to toe, arms relaxed. 4. A natural smiling headshot. Ask a friend to hold the phone at chest height and use the back camera, not the selfie camera.
If you are applying for commercial work, add one relaxed shot that shows your personality. Read commercial vs high fashion modeling to see which direction suits you.
Common mistakes to avoid
Beauty filters, heavy retouching, sunglasses, busy backgrounds and baggy clothes all make it harder for a scout to say yes. Send honest photos and let the agency see your potential.