DAY 7

FASHION & BEAUTY

The Model Test

SHOOTING AGENCY-REPRESENTED MODELS AND TALENT

The model test shoot is a great way to start building your fashion and beauty portfolio. The name “test shoot” is an industry term for testing a model’s abilities and look on camera. New talent needs to test with photographers to gain experience and to fill their portfolio book and composite cards. (Composite, or “comp” cards, have several images of the model in various poses, clothing, and backgrounds. These are used to showcase the model’s range and submitted by the talent’s agency to book assignment work.)

At first as TFP, or trade for print, the model, photographer and makeup artist exchange their services for several finished prints furnished by the photographer from the photo shoot. In most cases, the photographer takes the initiative to set up the shoot and the coordination of the model and stylists. To find models that match your level of skill and experience, try Internet photography and modeling forums and local modeling agencies. When first starting out, approach the model and agencies with the best images possible and offer to work for TFP. Established photographers are often paid by the models for their services and recommended by talent agencies to their talent. At any stage of a photographer’s and model’s career, paid or unpaid model tests are a great way to test new ideas and keep your skills sharp. —MR