How to take model polaroids that get you booked
Polaroids, also called digitals, are the single most important part of your application. Clients in Korea use them to see exactly how you look today, without retouching. Good polaroids are simple, and anyone can take them with a phone.
- Take 4 to 6 photos: front close-up, front full body, side profile, three-quarter and back.
- Use daylight from a window and a plain light wall.
- Wear fitted black or neutral basics; no makeup, no filters, hair natural.
- Polaroids must be recent, ideally from the last month.
The shots you need
| Shot | How to take it |
|---|---|
| Front close-up | Head and shoulders, neutral face, then one with a natural smile |
| Front full body | Head to toe, feet visible, arms relaxed |
| Side profile | Full body or waist up, facing left or right |
| Three-quarter | Body turned slightly, face toward camera |
| Back | Full body from behind |
Light, background and camera
- Stand facing a window with soft daylight. Avoid direct sun and overhead lights.
- Use a plain white or light grey wall. No patterns or clutter.
- Have someone take the photos at your chest height, using the phone’s main camera, not the selfie camera.
- Do not use filters, beauty modes or portrait blur.
Clothing, hair and makeup
- Clothing: a fitted black or neutral tank top or T-shirt and fitted jeans or shorts. Women may also add a simple black swimsuit or bikini for body shots; men, fitted shorts.
- Shoes: barefoot or simple heels for women, barefoot or plain shoes for men.
- Hair: natural and clean, one set with hair down and one tied back so your face shape is clear.
- Makeup: none, or only light concealer. Clients want to see your real skin.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Old photos that no longer match your hair or body
- Heavy makeup, filters or retouching
- Busy backgrounds or dark rooms
- Baggy clothes that hide your shape
- Only professional editorial photos, without any polaroids
When your polaroids are ready, send them with your measurements to momoagency.model@gmail.com. See how to join MOMO Agency.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take polaroids with my phone?
Yes. A modern phone camera in soft daylight against a plain wall is perfect for agency polaroids.
Should I wear makeup in polaroids?
No, or only very light concealer. Agencies and clients want to see your natural skin and features.
This guide is written by the booking team at MOMO Agency, a model agency in Gangnam, Seoul that recruits international models and sponsors C-4 and E-6 work visas. Visa and tax rules can change; we confirm current requirements for every model before they apply.
Ready to model in Seoul?
Open call · Always recruiting · momoagency.model@gmail.com