How to Submit Modeling Photos

Start with the agency’s own instructions

Every agency has its own submission process, such as an online form, an email address, or open calls. Read their instructions before sending anything. Agencies often specify the number and type of photos, file format, and the contact details they need. Sending exactly what they ask for shows you can follow directions.

What agencies usually ask for

Many agencies ask for simple, unretouched photos often called digitals or polaroids. They are meant to show what you naturally look like, not a styled shoot. Typical requests include:

• A clear headshot, facing the camera, with minimal or no makeup.
• A profile (side) view of the face.
• A full-length shot standing straight, in fitted, simple clothing.
• Sometimes a three-quarter or waist-up shot.
• Sometimes a smiling image.

Requirements vary by agency and type of modeling, so treat this as a general guide and check each agency’s instructions.

How to take simple digitals at home

You do not need a professional shoot to make a first submission, unless the agency asks for one.

1. Light. Use soft natural light from a window, facing the light, or shoot outdoors in shade. Avoid harsh shadows and heavy filters. The best time of day to take photos inside depends on which way your windows face.
2. Background. Stand in front of a plain wall. Remove clutter.
3. Clothing. Wear plain, fitted clothing, such as a simple top and jeans, or a plain swimsuit or fitted athletic wear if requested. Avoid logos and patterns.
4. Hair and makeup. Keep hair off your face and makeup minimal or none.
5. Camera. Have someone else take the photos if you can, with the camera at roughly chest or face height, depending on the shot. Use the rear camera of a phone.
6. Pose. Stand tall, relax your shoulders and look straight at the lens. Keep expressions natural.
7. Variety. Take several frames of each pose and choose the sharpest, most natural ones.

Our general guide on how to do professional headshots can help you with light and framing.

Prepare your files

• Choose photos that are sharp, well lit and recent.
• Do not retouch or apply filters unless the agency says otherwise. Agencies generally want to see you as you are; see is photo manipulation ethical for why unretouched images matter in this context.
• Save in the requested format, typically JPEG, and check the maximum file size. If a portal also sets a minimum, see how to increase image file size to 100KB.
• Name files clearly, for example with your name and the pose.
• Keep the original files.

What to include in the submission

Besides photos, many agencies ask for:

• Your name, age or date of birth, and location.
• Contact details.
• Basic measurements, as requested, and height.
• Links to social media, if requested.
• A brief note, if the process allows one. Keep it short and polite.

Only provide what the agency’s official process asks for. Avoid sharing sensitive documents.

What to avoid sending

• Heavily edited or filtered photos.
• Group photos where it is hard to tell which person is you.
• Photos with sunglasses, hats or heavy makeup that hide your features, unless requested.
• Old photos that do not look like you now.
• Images that are blurry, dark or very low resolution.
• Anything the agency did not ask for, particularly sensitive personal information.

Research the agency and watch for red flags

Before submitting, learn about the agency:

• Look for a professional website, a verifiable address and a clear submissions process.
• Search for reviews and any complaints.
• Be cautious if an agency demands large upfront fees for representation, or pressures you to book an expensive photo shoot with a specific photographer. Legitimate agencies are generally described as earning commission from your work, but practices vary, so read any contract carefully.
• Be careful about sending photos to individuals through social media direct messages.
• If you are under 18, involve a parent or guardian.

If anything feels wrong, pause and ask questions before sharing photos or paying money.

What happens after you submit

Some agencies respond within days or weeks; others reply only if interested. If you do not hear back, that is common, and you can try other agencies or submit updated photos later. If an agency invites you for an evaluation, ask about what to bring and what to wear. Our guide on photo shoot tips for models covers how to prepare.

What is a profile photo in modeling?

In modeling, a “profile” may refer to a side view of the face, which agencies often request. It can also mean your profile page or portfolio card on an agency or casting site, which usually includes a lead headshot. For the difference between these uses, see headshot vs profile shot.

Related reading

For broader advice on preparing for photography sessions, read photo shoot tips for models.