What are digitals?
Digitals are simple photos — no heavy makeup, no elaborate editing. They're shot with good light and a clean background. The idea is that agencies and clients see what you actually look like — your face, your body, your real proportions.
A typical set of digitals includes:
- Face — straight on, no filters or retouching
- Profile — side view
- Full body — in fitted, simple clothing
- Half body — waist up
Think of them as your visual resume. They don't need to be artistic or have a concept. They need to be honest.
What is a model book?
A book (or portfolio) is a collection of your best professional photos. This is where concept, art direction, makeup, wardrobe, and locations come in. A good book shows your range — that you can do editorial, commercial, beauty, lifestyle.
A book is built over time. Every professional shoot, collaboration, or campaign you do can add a page.
What's the real difference?
| Digitals | Book | |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Getting discovered | Getting hired |
| Style | Natural, no production | Professional, with concept |
| Who asks | Agencies, castings, directors | Clients, brands, magazines |
| When you need them | From day one | Built with each job |
| Shelf life | Every 3–6 months (your look changes) | Updated constantly |
Which do you need first?
If you're just starting: digitals. No question.
Agencies don't want to see an elaborate book if they've never seen you in person or on camera. They want to know what you look like, how you move, what potential you have. Digitals are your introduction — clean, direct, no distractions.
If you already have experience: you need both. Digitals get refreshed every few months (your body, hair, face change). Your book grows with your career.
Common mistakes
"I got a book done but I don't have digitals" — That's like having a design portfolio but no resume. Agencies need the basics first.
"My digitals are selfies" — A selfie with good lighting doesn't replace a professional set. Digitals need a real camera, proper distance, and someone who knows what they're doing.
"I only need my Instagram photos" — Instagram is your social showcase, but agencies and clients want photos without filters and without exaggerated poses. They want to see you, not your character.
How much do digitals cost?
Pricing varies by city and photographer. What matters is that you get a set that's clean, well-lit, and shot by someone who understands what agencies look for.
At Rirod Studio, we offer digitals sessions where the priority is showing you as you are — with professional direction so every photo works in a real casting. If you're starting out or need to update your digitals, it's a solid starting point.
What about the book?
A book isn't bought in a single session. It's built. Every time you work with a good photographer, every collaboration, every test shoot — that's material for your book.
If you're at a stage where you have experience and want to build or refresh your portfolio, we can help with a focused session. But if you're just getting started, begin with digitals.
In summary
You don't need everything at once. Start where you are:
- First step: Get professional digitals taken
- Second step: Apply to castings and collaborations with your digitals
- Third step: Every job or session you do, ask for photos for your book
- Fourth step: When you have material, build your portfolio
The important thing is taking the first step. Digitals are that first step.
Need digitals or want to update yours? Check out our session options or apply for a casting.