Model Polaroids, often called digitals or polars, are simple, unretouched photographs that capture a model’s natural appearance. They are typically taken without makeup and in simple clothing, using natural light to accurately reflect the model’s features and physique. These images are an essential tool for agencies and clients to assess a model’s true appearance without the distortions of professional styling or retouching.

We’ll show you what such Polaroids should look like in a later step.

Agencies usually take these Polaroids during agency visits when they take the model’s measurements and discuss other relevant career development steps. However, they can also be taken during photoshoots with a photographer. For freelance models, it’s advisable to take Polaroids during a photoshoot to make a professional impression, rather than relying solely on their phone’s photos.

It’s important to regularly update Polaroids, as well as runway and intro tapes, because clients expect to see the most up-to-date presentation of the model they are considering booking, without a casting call, based solely on photos and videos. Maintaining these materials therefore helps ensure that a model’s portfolio reflects their latest look. See also: Digitals.