Test Shoot FAQ and Preparation Guide
Model: Madelyn Wood with Blonde Talent
EMAIL: CALLIETAYLORPHOTOGRAPHY@GMAIL.COM | BOOK A TEST SHOOT HERE.
What is a test shoot?
If you are a model, or are interested in modeling and fashion, you have probably heard the term “test shoot” used in a variety of ways. But what is a test shoot? It can be tricky to navigate approaching models or photographers at the beginning of your career. What is the purpose of a test shoot? Is it paid or unpaid? How do you find the right photographer or model to test with?
Simply put, a test shoot is when a photographer and a model collaborate together to create new content. The photographer might have a new concept or lighting technique they want to try out. Or maybe the model needs to update their portfolio with new images, especially if their appearance just underwent a drastic change. A test shoot is a great way for a new model to gain experience and practice their skills without pressure or fear of failure. A huge production isn’t necessary; test shoots are often simple. You might add a makeup artist or hair stylist to your team, however, keeping your look natural is usually best. Less is more!
How long does a test shoot last?
1-2 hours, depending on the number of looks (outfits) and whether or not hair and makeup is done on set. I tend to aim for three looks for a test shoot, as it provides variety but isn’t overwhelming.
How do I find the right model/photographer?
To find the right photographer, you have to do a bit of research. Check their portfolio. Look for a photographer with quality work and who tests with models consistently. Secondly, get references. Reach out to other models they’ve worked with before. They should be tagged in the photos. Ask the model what their experience was like working with that photographer. It might be a red flag if the photographer doesn’t tag the models in his/her posts. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as they aren’t on good terms with the model or they don’t have consent from the model to post the photos. The photos could also be stolen. A well-respected photographer who tests with professional models will almost always tag their models. If you are signed with an agency, you can also ask your agency about their opinion of the photographer. It’s always good practice to notify your agent when setting up a test shoot. They’ve worked with countless photographers and might have a better eye for quality work and professionalism than you do early on in your career.
The process for a photographer finding a good model is similar - check portfolio and check professional references.
Who pays - the model or the photographer?
Most test shoots are unpaid. But never “free.” An unpaid test shoot is a collaboration between a group of creatives coming together to create mutually beneficial work. The term “trade” work is more appropriate - a trade of talents. Each member of the team (photographer, model, makeup artist, wardrobe stylist, hair stylist, etc.) should benefit equally from the shoot if it is unpaid. If you do book an unpaid test shoot, take it as seriously as a paid shoot - every team member is investing time and money into the shoot, as well as turning away other opportunities in order to work with you. If you treat a test shoot like a joke, you’re only wasting your own time.
There are some instances when a test shoot is paid. If a photographer is brand new with no portfolio, they might pay a more experienced model who will elevate their portfolio. Likewise, if a model is just starting out, they may need to pay an experienced photographer in order to build their portfolio. A good rule of thumb is, if you are the one reaching out for a shoot, expect to pay. Never expect another professional to provide unpaid labor. When reaching out, be up front that you are looking for “TFP” work (trade for print, or sometimes time for photos), but don’t be discouraged if the answer is no. Rejection is not personal - perhaps their goals don’t align with yours, or they simply aren’t accepting any unpaid work for financial reasons. Whatever the reason, simply thank them and move along. Always stay professional and don’t burn bridges.
How do I approach a model/photographer I would like to work with?
In approaching anybody with a proposition to work together, professionalism is key. Take the time to first introduce yourself. Be human. This goes a long way, because most people just get straight to the point. You wouldn’t do that in person, having just met somebody, so why would you do it online? Introduce yourself by stating your name, general location, and years of experience. If you’re a model, you might state which agency you’re with. This second bit is something not many people do, but I find goes a long way to connecting with people — tell them what you like about their work, and bonus points for being specific. Let them know that you want to work with them specifically, and aren’t just sending the same generic message to every model/photographer in the area. Always be gracious in the face of rejection, and keep in mind that a “no” now could be a “yes” later once you’ve gained more experience.
Sample message/email: “Hi [insert photographer’s name], my name is Jane and I’m a model based in Indianapolis. I’ve been modeling professionally for 3 years. I came across your profile after seeing your collab with Rachel, and I really love your work! I especially enjoy your use of bold colors and mixed patterns. Your work consists of very dramatic lighting, which is something I’d like to add to my own portfolio. Would you be interested in working together sometime soon?”
People are busy. Don’t write a novel, but DO put some effort into your initial message.
So you booked your first test shoot. PREPARATION IS KEY!
Test Shoot Do’s and Dont’s
DO use a mood board. Both parties should be clear on what they’re shooting beforehand.
DO use a call sheet. A call sheet should include the theme/concept of the shoot, shoot date and time, shoot location, team members, and the mood board for reference.
DO bring a parent or friend if you’re a minor. No reputable photographer will have a problem with this.
DO clarify timeline and deliverables beforehand - how many edited photos will you receive and how long will that take?
DO credit ALL team members when posting. Tag them and credit in the caption. Your social media captions should work to promote both yourself and your team members. Instead of posting an unrelated quote, take the time to talk about your experience, or hype up your creative team.
DO nurture professional relationships. Follow your creative team on social media. Promote them on your stories and posts. The energy you put out into the world is the energy you invite back to yourself. Thank your photographer and team for their work. Keep in touch after the shoot ends. You want to be the first name in someone’s head when an opportunity arises.
DO take behind the scenes footage. Show the photo shoot setup - the lights, the camera, the set, the posing.
DO learn from this experience. What can you do better next time?
DO pack a few days before your test shoot. This way you don’t feel rushed the day of, and you feel confident and ready.
DO create the kind of work your CLIENTS want to see. A test shoot can and should help you book a paid job.
DO a basic hygiene check:
Nails clean, trimmed, and paint not chipped
No self-tanning streaks on face/body
Facial/body hair trimmed (if desired)
Teeth flossed (EVERYTHING shows up in photos)
DON’T deviate drastically from the mood board without consulting your team members first. If you’re unsure of what clothing items to pack, ask for clarification.
DON’T ask a model to pose nude or implied nude if this was not discussed prior to the shoot.
DON’T put Instagram filters over a photographer’s work (or edit the photos yourself in an app). This is a great way to make sure that photographer won’t work with you ever again.
DON’T go overboard with Photoshop. Don’t alter ethnic features, alter skin tones, or slim models down.
DON’T go overboard with retouching. Dodge and burn is the most professional method of retouching. Don’t use automated software or cut corners when retouching. Either retouch the right way, or don’t retouch at all. Nothing ruins an otherwise good photo faster than cheap retouching.
DON’T no show. If you have to cancel last minute, notify your team ASAP. Be professional.
DON’T badger your photographer for the photos after the shoot. You should have an idea of how long it could take to receive the photos. If that deadline hasn’t passed, then don’t bother your photographer. If the photos are taking longer to edit than they originally expected, a professional photographer will reach out to you with updates.
DON’T ask the photographer for RAW or unedited photos.
This is not an exhaustive list, but hopefully these tips are helpful for your next test shoot!
Most importantly, HAVE FUN. Although you should take test shoots seriously, don’t be too hard on yourself. It’s important to learn and grow, and to do that you have to make mistakes.
Let’s elevate your portfolio!
To book a test shoot with me, email me at callietaylorphotography@gmail.com or fill out the contact form here.