One of the most important skills for all actors and models to learn may surprise you.
Agents consistently need updated photos of you to submit out to clients. According to Michal Fomkin, co-founder of VIP Ignite, the most important skill for any actor or model just beginning their career is to master taking the perfect digital photo.
What are digitals?
They are basic images taken to showcase your face and body without any editing, styling, make-up, or filters. Digitals are the raw photo version of you which showcase to an agency/client what you look like in your most natural state. This means: no fake lashes, no makeup, no face-tune or Instagram filters.
Why Digitals?
Digitals are you in your most authentic and natural state. This allows a client to see you as you are…and allows them to see how they can use you in their campaign, commercial.
How Often Should You Take Digitals?
Agencies typically require that their models submit to them fresh digitals as requested by a client.
When you are first with an agency, they will likely ask you to send digitals weekly.
When asked why, agent Ryan Colby said, “The more practice that a new model has at the beginning, it will become second nature to them, like tying their shoes. So, in the first couple of months, I ask for digitals weekly…not necessarily because I need them, but because I need my talent to be able to take digitals without a second thought.”
Frequently asked questions on taking digitals
Do I need a professional camera? No…digitals can be taken with your phone. The smart phone in your hand takes better photos than a $25,000 Leica camera.
Where should I take my digitals? Take your digitals against a blank background, preferably a white wall.
What kind of lighting do I need? Natural lighting would be the best option as natural light tends to look the most flattering for everyone.
How should I pose for digitals?
- Headshot: one smiling & one non-smiling, and one with your hair pulled back
2. Full profile shot: non-smiling
3. 3/4 headshot with or without eyes looking into the camera (non-smiling)
4. Full body front facing shot- smiling & non-smiling
**NEVER** send digitals in lingerie, partially nude, or fully nude. If anyone asks for those type of images, it’s a HUGE red flag.
About VIP Ignite-
Do you want to be a model? Learn the basic patterns from the best in the industry with VIP Ignite! We are a revolutionary way for both aspiring and experienced talent to learn, get advice, and sit down face-to-face with the entertainment industry’s top leading executives, agents, managers, casting directors, producers, A&R executives, Grammy award winners, theatrical agents, top model agents, Tony winners, and both Emmy and Academy award winners. Visit our website to schedule an audition, call us at 215-322-8200, or email us to get advice on cultivating genuine relationships with industry professionals TODAY!
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