test shots advice

[Peter Blake]

in relation to models and modelling...

I was at an event recently and a young lady approached me and said, what other kind of photos do you shoot, do you shoot test shots? of course I replied in the affirmative not having much of a clue about these things....

but at the same time told her that I am not affiliated with any particular agency, meaning model agency. she did look the type. skinny european with a piercing look.

all I know is that agencies taking on models generally send said ladies for test shots with photographers. can I expect to earn anything, is what I really want to know

 

[Hamish Gill]

My understanding is that test shots are portfolio shots for models who dont otherwise have much of a portfolio.
im not sure you would make any cash really... There are probably too many photographers looking to take shots for their own portfolios and wouldn't charge the model

- - - Updated - - -

Some reading here

 

[Pete Askew]

I guess you could do a deal and get, say, 50% of the shots with a model release so you can use them for your portfolio, website and possibly sales - aim for a few generic commercial ones as well.

 

[Chris Dodkin]

Good chance to get a free model Peter - as Pete mentioned get a model release signed so you can use the shots as well.

I typically asked them to cover the cost of materials and processing back in the film/dev days so at least I wasn't out of pocket

Good review of the whole process here: Model Photos and Test Shoots from the model's point of view - but you get the idea.

 

[Larry Bolch]

At least in the US, "testing" was code for an exchange of services. You get a model for free and both get portfolio shots. If you have a project in mind, new equipment to try out, it is a risk free way to spend a few hours. I found that a lot of high-priced models are happy to share in this way, which can greatly enhance your book.

 

[Kev Pugh]

PFT Prints for Time is a normal practice, they provide their time you provide the prints. aka digital images, no money changes hands but both have the rights to use images in their respective portfolios...