Polas Mannequin: Everything You Need to Know

Polas Mannequin, these raw and unretouched shots, play a crucial role in the modeling industry. Essential for agencies and recruiters, they allow for an evaluation of a model’s potential in its most natural form. However, behind this apparent simplicity lies a well-mastered technique to ensure effective and impactful photos.

In this article, we will explore:

• What Polas Mannequin are and why they are indispensable.
• The essential criteria for Polas that meet industry standards.
• The importance of working with professionals like Rétines for optimal results.

Definition and Role in Modeling

Polas, short for Polaroids, refer to simple, natural, and unretouched photos, primarily used in the modeling industry. Unlike edited or stylized photos, their purpose is to showcase the model as they are:

• Natural: Without excessive makeup or unnecessary accessories.
• Raw: Revealing the texture of the skin, bone structure, and true proportions.
• Casting-appropriate: Allowing agencies to assess whether a model fits the needs of a project or client.

Polas often serve as a basis in casting processes. They provide a quick and objective first impression before a portfolio or edited photos are reviewed.

Standards of a Successful Model Pola

To meet the expectations of recruiters, Polas must follow specific guidelines. These standards ensure that the model is presented professionally while highlighting their natural features.

A. Natural Lighting

Lighting is one of the most important elements for a successful Pola. Soft, natural light, whether natural or recreated in the studio, is ideal to avoid harsh shadows and highlight the texture of the skin and facial features.

In the studio, a well-regulated light source, such as a softbox or continuous lighting, ensures perfect uniformity. This type of lighting helps avoid unwanted reflections, particularly on the face or hair.

For outdoor shoots, it’s best to choose slightly cloudy days or golden hours (morning or late afternoon) as they provide soft and even light.

B. A Neutral Background

A neutral background is essential to direct attention solely to the model. Typically, a white or light gray background is preferred as it highlights the details of the features and silhouette without distracting the viewer’s attention.

C. Simple Poses

The poses for a Pola should remain simple and natural. The goal is to showcase the model’s proportions and lines without embellishments or exaggerations.

Key poses include:

• Front-facing: a bust shot and a full-body shot for a general view.
• Profile: both left and right, to properly assess the facial structure and overall posture.
• Spontaneous poses: a few slightly less formal shots can be added to reflect a touch of personality.

It’s important to maintain a relaxed and confident posture while avoiding looking stiff or uncomfortable.

D. A Simple Outfit

The clothing chosen for the Polas should be neutral and fitted to highlight the model’s silhouette. The idea is to provide a blank canvas that does not distract from the focus:

• A well-fitted black or white t-shirt.
• Slim or straight jeans, without unnecessary details.
• Barefoot or discreet shoes (simple white or black shoes).

The clothes should be clean, well-ironed, and tailored to the model’s body shape. Accessories such as jewelry, watches, or scarves should be avoided for a minimalist and clean look.

E. No Makeup or Retouching

Authenticity is a key criterion for Polas Mannequin. Recruiters want to see the model as they are, without makeup or digital retouching. This allows them to assess the natural quality of the skin, facial features, and other details such as freckles or expressions.

It is also essential to ensure the skin is well-hydrated and rested before the session. Simple preparation, such as face cleansing and getting enough sleep, is enough to achieve an optimal result.

Why Entrust Your Polas to a Professional Photographer?

Although Polas may seem easy to take, the expertise of a professional photographer offers several advantages:

• Impeccable Quality:
  Recruiters expect sharp, well-framed, and well-lit photos. A photographer masters these technical aspects to ensure flawless results.
• An Expert Eye:
  A professional like those at Rétines guides the model to adopt the best poses and expressions, while adhering to the required standards.
• Time-Saving:
  Hiring an agency avoids technical errors and ensures that the photos are delivered ready for use quickly.
• Building Confidence:
  Being photographed can be stressful, especially for beginner models. At Rétines, we make it a priority to create a calm and professional atmosphere.

Polas Mannequin at Rétines

Step 1: Preparation

Before each session, we have a discussion with the model to explain the expectations and provide advice on their outfit and appearance.

Step 2: Studio Shooting

Our studio is equipped to ensure shots are taken under ideal conditions:

• Neutral and uniform background.

• Optimized lighting to reveal details without creating shadows.

Step 3: Selection and Delivery

After the shoot, we select the best photos and deliver them quickly, ready to be sent to agencies or recruiters.

Frequently Asked Questions about Polas Mannequin

1. Should Polas be in black and white?

Most agencies prefer color Polas as they allow for a precise evaluation of skin tones and textures. However, including one or two black and white images can be interesting to show another artistic dimension, but it remains optional.

2. How many photos are necessary?

To create an effective Pola Mannequin, a series of 5 to 10 photos is usually sufficient. These shots should cover the essential angles and poses required by agencies, while offering variety that highlights the model’s features and silhouette.

Essential photos include:

• A frontal portrait: to capture the natural expression and facial features.
• Left and right profiles: to assess the face structure and contours.
• A full-body shot: to show the general proportions and posture.
• A few spontaneous shots: to reflect the model’s personality and ability to be comfortable in front of the camera.

The goal is to provide a clear and authentic view of the model without excessive takes. Too many photos may dilute the impact, while too few may not be enough to convince recruiters.

3. What is the price of a Pola session?

At Rétines, transparency is key when preparing a photo session. For a Pola Mannequin session, we offer a base rate starting at €100 including VAT.
Find the full pricing for Pola Mannequin sessions here.

Polas and Social Media

While Pola Mannequin photos are essential for agencies and recruiters, they can also play a strategic role on social media. More and more models are using their Polas to strengthen their online presence, particularly on Instagram or LinkedIn, in addition to their traditional portfolios.

A showcase of your authenticity

Agencies appreciate models who are transparent and professional. Posting your Polas shows that you are ready to meet the industry’s demands while highlighting your natural look.

How to optimize them for social media?

• Professional captions: Briefly explain the context of these photos (casting, portfolio update, etc.).
• Strategic hashtags: Use hashtags like #PolasMannequin, #ModelPortfolio, or #CastingCall to increase your visibility with agencies and recruiters.

However, be mindful of privacy. Before posting, make sure your Polas are not exclusively intended for a specific agency or client.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Taking Pola Mannequin Photos

Even though Polas may seem simple to take, some common mistakes can reduce their impact:

• Inadequate lighting:
  Avoid overly direct or artificial lighting that creates harsh shadows. Natural light or a professional setup is essential.

• Inappropriate attire:
  Loose or overly colorful clothing can distract from the focus. Keep it simple and neutral to highlight your silhouette.

• Neglected framing:
  Poor framing (e.g., cutting off feet or shoulders) can harm the quality of your photos. Stick to standard proportions for each shot.

• Too much retouching:
  Even a slight retouch can damage the authenticity of your Polas. Keep them natural and raw.

• Forgetting to vary the poses:
  It’s important to include variations: profiles, front-facing, full-body shots, and a pose that reflects your personality. This shows your adaptability.

Why Choose Rétines for Your Pola Mannequin Photos?

As an agency specialized in B2B photography, Rétines brings unique expertise to the creation of Pola Mannequin photos. We understand that a well-executed shot can make all the difference in a casting.

Our Advantages:

• Recognized technical expertise.

• Personalized support for each model.

• Quick turnaround to meet casting deadlines.

With Rétines, your Polas will showcase the best of your potential while adhering to the industry’s rigorous standards.

Conclusion

Pola Mannequin photos are a crucial step for any model looking to stand out in the modeling world. Simple in appearance, these shots require true technical mastery and an expert eye to meet industry standards.

Trust Rétines with your Polas to maximize your chances of catching the attention of agencies and recruiters. Contact us today to book your session and start your career with high-quality shots.