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Natural. Simple. Essential!
Modeling agencies and casting directors around the world require fresh, natural images of aspiring models and talent — free from heavy makeup, retouching, or creative lighting. These clean, honest photographs are known as model polaroids (or polys or digitals) and are a vital part of any model or actor’s portfolio and often the first step in getting signed and entering the industry.
At The Headshot Studio, we offer professional modeling and casting polaroid sessions tailored specifically to agency requirements. Whether you’re just starting out or updating your book, we ensure you receive high-quality, agency-compliant digitals that highlight your natural look and versatility.
What Are Polaroids?
Polaroids are simple, unedited photos that show your current appearance exactly as you are. These images are used by modeling agencies, casting agents, and clients to assess your natural features — including your bone structure, body type, skin tone, and height.
Model POLAROIDS
Most affordable approach- 30 minute studio shoot
- 12 final Polaroid-style unedited images
- Images formatted for electronic and print use
POLAROIDS plus HEADSHOTS
Best value for someone wanting to apply to modeling and talent agencies- Up to 1 hour studio shoot
- 12 Polaroid-style unedited images
- 2 High-resolution Full Retouch headshot images
- Up to 3 outfits
- Choice of white, black, gray (light and dark), plus other paper colours, or use of tinted gel backdrops**
- Images formatted for electronic and print use
- Hair and makeup OPTIONAL at extra cost
Modeling polaroids styling and appearance
Polaroids and typically taken in natural or neutral light against a plan white background with minimal styling and basic outfits, such as:
- Jeans and a fitted T-shirt or tank top
- Swimwear (as requested by the agency)
- Hair tied back and natural variations
- Minimal to no makeup
If you’re submitting to a model agency, polaroids are usually the first images they look at — and often, the deciding factor for whether you get signed or called in for a casting.
What’s included in the Polaroid session?
Our standard Polaroid Package includes:
- A 30-minute session in-studio
- A full set of 12 high-resolution, unretouched images
- A variety of standing and close-up shots from multiple angles (front, ¾, side, full-length, mid-length, and close-up shots)
- Basic wardrobe guidance based on agency preferences
- Clean, natural lighting to best show off your features
Please note: These images are intentionally not retouched — this is an industry standard and allows agencies to see your natural look.
See what our customers have to say
Piya Botha2024-11-12Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I stumbled across The Headshot Studio & Migal's work one day when looking online for a corporate headshot photographer with an edge to partner with my then company. He priced competitively and then delivered in spades! Migal is a superbly skilful photographer who has developed a distinguished style where both the personal emotion & aesthetic feature can be felt and seen within the images. I have no thoughts whatsoever of going anywhere else with future photography work. I recommend The Headshot Studio & Migal Vanas Photography wholeheartedly! Keith Magill2024-11-06Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. What a great professional experience! Migal was extremely professional in his approach and made the whole process really simple and easy. Ultimately the end result is what one is looking for and he provided some really great quality headshots. I highly recommend Migal. Christie Niederhumer2024-10-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Professional and friendly service. Loved the headshots! would highly recommend. Kgomotso Mokoena2024-10-02Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hired Headshots Studio for professional corporate headshots for our team at S&P Global. From start to finish, the entire experience was seamless, professional and so comfortable. I loved the briefing session that Migal had with the team prior to the shoot, where he clearly explained the process and helped each of us prepare better for the shoot in terms of posing and being more relaxed. Also, we had a tight deadline with the headshots…which Headshots Studio successfully met within the required timeframe . Overall, we are pleased with the outstanding results! And I would definitely recommend Headshots Studio for any professional headshots. Kelebogile Motshabi2024-07-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. A very good friend of mine, Martinez recommended Michael from The Headshot Studio in Woodstock CAPE TOWN. I had a great experience working with Michael, he provided a very warm, friendly and professional environment. He was very patient in guiding me through the entire process. I am so happy with the end results. I highly recommend Michael for your professional headshots, he is simply just the best in photography!!! Thuso2024-07-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I got the best service working with these guys. Very professional! The headshots I got are simply impeccable. Totally recommend them. Riana Nel2024-06-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Migal has been very professional and gave us useful tips and information during the session Ceren Taygun2024-05-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Recently I had my headshots taken by The Headshot Studio. Since us normal people are not super models and don't have our pictures taken every day it's quite a scary thing to do. But Migal and his team are super friendly and really make you feel at home. And when you are relaxed the whole thing becomes less scary and your pictures look way better. Needless to say, I'm very satisfied with the result. If you are looking for someone to take your headshots, look no further.
Why choose The Headshot Studio?
We’ve worked with models, actors, and talent of all experience levels — from complete beginners to established professionals. Our modern Woodstock studio is fully equipped with neutral backdrops, versatile lighting, and a calm, professional environment to help you feel confident and at ease.
At The Headshot Studio, we understand the industry standards and provide consistent, high-quality results that meet agency specifications. Whether you’re booking for yourself, your child, or managing a roster of talent, we make the process efficient, comfortable, and tailored to your needs.
Ready to book?
Polaroid sessions are by appointment only. We typically recommend booking 1–2 weeks ahead. A 50% deposit is required to confirm your session.