Get some [good] digitals

Congratulations are in order if you've been researching modeling agencies and are ready to submit.

If you are still working on the 'get over it' assignment from my first blog post...I told you that one takes the longest. Hang in there!

If you are thinking of submitting, you've probably come across the word 'digitals' and may even be like, "Well I know what a digital is but if you were going to explain it someone that say...didn't know, how would you explain it?"

Well, I'm glad you asked. A digital is just another way of saying, "send us a current photograph." There are some more details involved but the main idea here is that agencies are looking to see what you really look like. They don't want your graduation picture, you in your dance recital costume, your retouched glamour shots or your latest selfie from the...(fill in wherever you took your last selfie).

To take a proper digital, here's what you'll need:

1. A well-lit space with a blank wall. Search your home during the day for a neutral-colored wall that gets great natural light. Stand in front of the wall (the light has to be on you, not behind you) and take a selfie. Check to see that you are lit up nicely and that there are no weird shadows on your face. It may take a few tries to get the best light. If you have an outdoor space with a neutral wall and great light, take the digitals there. Just make sure that you are not squinting.

2. A basic outfit. Dark jeans, a plain tank top and black or neutral heels make a great 'digital uniform'.

3. A makeup-free face. Everyone seems to have a different definition of 'no makeup'. To some, it means foundation, blush, mascara and lipstick. I urge you not to wear any makeup in your digitals. What I usually do is exfoliate my skin the day before and

lip balm

4. A hair tie. Take some digis with your hair down and some with your hair up. Pay attention to the submission instructions on the agency's website. Some want hair up, some don't specify. I like these plain janes.

5. A trusted friend. You may be able to take these digitals yourself with a tripod and your cell phone but if you have a friend that doesn't think your notion of becoming a lifestyle model is crazy, enlist their help. You'll need a few different angles, as spelled out on the agency's website. The agency will usually give you an example of what they are looking for. Most will want a close-up shot smiling (shoulders up, looking into camera), some profile shots, a 3/4 length shot and a full body shot.

All in all, your digitals should be the most natural version of you. No posing is necessary other than good posture.