Polaroids — often called “polas” in the modeling industry — are simple photos designed to show the natural appearance of a model.
The name comes from the Polaroid camera brand, which, before the era of digital photography, allowed photographers to develop photos almost instantly.
Modeling agencies take polaroids — or ask models to provide them — in order to present their natural body shape and appearance.
Photographers and clients who plan to work with models often require up-to-date polaroids to see what a person looks like:
- without makeup,
- without styled hair,
- and most importantly, without retouching.
In the era of Photoshop and heavy editing, advertising images do not always reflect reality.
That is why agencies such as UNIQUE AGENCY regularly update the polaroid database of their represented models.
Changes such as:
- different hair length,
- hair colour changes,
- tattoos,
- or other appearance modifications
should always be updated with new polaroids as quickly as possible.
Advertising productions often involve entire creative teams preparing styling, makeup and hair specifically for selected models, which is why accurate and current appearance information is so important.
HOW SHOULD YOU PREPARE FOR POLAROIDS?
It’s best to take polaroids when you feel fresh, rested and in a good mood.
Fatigue is visible on the face, and potential clients usually do not know the model from other natural photos.
That’s why it’s important to present yourself as naturally and professionally as possible.
NO MAKEUP
Polaroids should always be completely natural.
No makeup. 100% clean face.
WHAT SHOULD YOU WEAR?
Polaroids are usually taken in simple underwear:
- men: boxers,
- women: bra and briefs,
- plus classic heels or barefoot.
It’s best to wear:
- plain,
- neutral,
- nude-coloured underwear without decorations or strong patterns.
WHAT PHOTOS ARE NEEDED?
You should take:
- full body front view,
- both side profiles,
- back view,
- close-up portraits.
If the model has long hair, it’s recommended to repeat the photos with tied-back hair to clearly show:
- face shape,
- jawline,
- neck proportions.
An additional smiling photo is also welcome.
Polaroids are not about posing skills.
You should stand naturally and straight without exaggerated posing or pushing the hips forward — although one more dynamic shot usually won’t hurt.
Many clients also request hand photos, so it’s useful to include them as well.
HOW TO TAKE POLAROIDS YOURSELF?
The easiest option is asking a professional photographer to help during a free moment.
Fashion photographers usually know exactly how to create professional polaroids, and the process typically takes only a few minutes.
However, contrary to appearances, taking polaroids yourself is not difficult at all — even with a smartphone.
You simply need to follow a few important rules.
LIGHTING & BACKGROUND
Polaroids should ideally be taken in natural daylight.
Make sure:
- the room is bright,
- the background is clean and neutral,
- there is no visual clutter behind you.
CAMERA POSITION
Full body photos should be taken approximately from belly-button height to preserve natural body proportions.
For portraits, the camera should be placed at face level.
KEEP EVERYTHING NATURAL
All photos must be:
- sharp,
- clear,
- and show natural proportions.
If you are using a smartphone, it’s better to step slightly further away from the camera.
Modern smartphones often include multiple lenses — the best option is usually the lens closest to a classic 50mm focal length for the most natural perspective.
POLAROIDS AT UNIQUE AGENCY
UNIQUE AGENCY provides professional polaroids for its models free of charge and regularly updates them to ensure clients always receive accurate and professional presentation materials.
