Sunday, July 6, 2014

Dope Shit


You may or may not have heard the term 'Test Shoot' being thrown around the model/photography world. Well those of you who think a test shoot has more to do with a firearm then a model then let me fill you in on the deets... 

A 'Test Shoot' is basically an agreement between model/agent/photographer where everyone involved participates free of charge in order to build their individual portfolio's - also known as 'TFP' = Time For Print. It's a win win for everyone and is a great way to network, keep yourself shooting during slow periods, better your port and try out some different photographic styles. Sometimes you might go the whole hog and bring in a stylist, HMUA etc and submit the images to fashion magazines for publishing. The only thing you can't do with the images is use/sell them for commercial use or you might find yourself in hot water with some angry agent's. 

Something I have learnt from the past is always make it clear what the test shoot will involve to either the model and or agent. For example;

- How long the shoot will go for
- Inspiration and style
- How many images you will edit
- If you are planning on submitting for publishing
- If there is going to be nudity, or implied nudity it's important to agree on those terms beforehand 
- If they will need to do their own hair and make-up
- What clothing and accessories they will need to bring 
- A rough turn around on final images
- Acknowledge that all images that are shared on social media will also contain full credits for anyone involved. This goes both ways, it's important that everyone receives the necessary credit for their work, especially when that work is free. 

Some models you will be shooting will be very fresh to the modelling industry so it's important that you guide them through their posing and facial expressions. I always try to give as much advice as I can and it goes without saying that making your subject feel comfortable with you is imperative. But at the end of the day, just have fun! Laugh, joke, drink sodi-pop, play some rad tunes, tell everyone how great they - just have a good damn time because let's face it, if you are going to work for free then you gotsta enjoy it! :)

P.S. How fine is Esha in our Miami themed test shoot?! My word that girl is a superfreak. Had such a rad time on this test and the images are some of my favourite ever. Looking forward to sharing some more of my test shoots with you in the future! 

CC xxx

Model: Esha @ Dally's Models


















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