Polaroid: Natural, fast photos

What is a Polaroid? In the context of modeling, a “Polaroid” refers to an unretouched and often spontaneous photographic format used to depict models in their natural form. A Polaroid photo shows the model without elaborate styling or image editing effects. Clients often want to see such Polaroids before they finally book a model, especially for direct bookings (without castings and gosees). However, you need them in the very first step to apply as a model.

Why do people need Polaroids of you as a model?

Naturalness & authenticity

Polaroid photos show the model as she looks in reality, without elaborate make-up, hair styling or Photoshop editing. Polaroids are intended to capture the natural beauty and personality of the model, without distortions or filters.

Speed

Polaroid photos are often taken quickly and spontaneously to convey an authentic impression. Clients often want Polaroids taken on the day that show you exactly as you look right now, not a few weeks or months ago. So if they say: “Take Polaroids asap “, then you should send them to your model agency within a few hours. The quicker, the better.

Need to take Polaroids quickly but still lack practice? Read ours here:

• Model Polaroid Tips

Using your Polaroids

Modeling agencies use Polaroid photos to give clients an unfiltered idea of what a model looks like before she is booked for a project, as described at the beginning. Polaroids are often included in models’ portfolios and sedcards to show their versatility and naturalness, which can be helpful in the selection process for castings and direct bookings.

This means that Polaroid photos are an important tool for you as a model to emphasize a model’s authentic presentation and ensure that clients receive a realistic image before booking a model for a project.