How to Shoot a Model Test: A Photographer’s Guide to Agency-Ready Shots

August 23, 2025

Model test photography is the foundation of professional fashion photography, creating portfolio images that modeling agencies actually use for bookings. These photoshoots are designed to build a model’s portfolio, allowing photographers to demonstrate their ability to produce industry-standard work that attracts model jobs. Understanding how to shoot a model test effectively separates professionals from hobbyists in the competitive fashion industry.

What Is Model Test Photography?

A model test shoot is a collaborative session between a photographer and model, focused on building modeling experience and refining skills in a low-pressure environment. Unlike commercial shoots with client requirements, model test photography allows creative freedom while meeting the professional standards that agencies demand for their talent.

The purpose of the shoot is specifically for the model’s portfolio, so the photographer takes direction from the agency to ensure images meet professional requirements. Today’s agencies manage hundreds of models and recommend experienced photographers who consistently deliver results, making these shoots an investment in career advancement rather than free collaborations.

@alexandrtomescu photographed by @av_stories at Studio C

Large daylight studio with RGB cyc wall lighting Studio C with large windows has been recently upgraded with full-spectrum RGB lights above our 19-foot white cyc wall in Downtown Los Angeles. This setup offers unlimited creative possibilities for fashion, commercial, and artistic photography with large format shooting capabilities and professional-grade RGB integration.

Model Digitals vs Portfolio Tests

There’s an important difference between these two types of model photography:

Model Digitals (also called Polaroids): Simple, unedited photos with minimal makeup against plain backgrounds. These show agencies what the model really looks like without filters or heavy styling. Think of them as the model’s “natural state” photos.

Portfolio Test Shoot: Styled, professional images that show off the model’s versatility and help them get actual bookings. These are the polished photos that go in their main portfolio.

@imsorrryimnot photographed by @tasha_razz at daylight photo studio Hill 3

Daylight photo studio for rent Hill 3 in Los Angeles features large windows, concrete floor, mirror wall and beautiful sunset light. Seamless backdrop paper is available for an additional price at this location.

Essential Equipment and Technical Setup

Camera and Lens Selection

You can photograph an entire test shoot with minimal gear – many professionals use an 85mm lens primarily, switching to 50mm when situations require it. The 85mm focal length provides flattering compression for portraits while maintaining comfortable working distance. 24-70 mm zoom lens is a great versatile option as well.

Camera settings should prioritize image quality and sharpness. Use apertures between f/4-f/8 for sufficient depth of field, shutter speeds of 1/160s to 1/500s for sharp images with flash sync, and keep ISO as low as possible for maximum image quality.

Lighting Setup

Some tests can be captured using only natural light and a reflector, while studio work requires just a single light setup. Professional model test lighting focuses on clean, descriptive illumination that displays everything needed without distraction.

Single Light Setup: Position your main light at a 45-degree angle to the model, slightly above eye level. A single light with a shoot-through white umbrella or beauty box softbox creates the professional quality agencies expect.

Natural Light Approach: Use soft lighting with natural light as the best option, or a ring light as a great second choice. Take digitals against a blank background, preferably a white wall, staying out of direct sunlight to avoid squinting and harsh facial shadows.

Professional model digitals shoot at the daylight photo studio Brooklyn 3 in NY. Model @zitavass

Brooklyn 3 has a large south-facing window that floods the space with beautiful natural light, making it ideal for model test photography. The studio includes professional equipment like strobes and wireless triggers, while the south-facing orientation provides consistent, soft daylight perfect for clean model digitals and portfolio sessions.

Professional Posing and Direction for Agency-Standard Images

Test shoots focus on capturing the model’s natural movement and expressions, with subtle movements typically working better than dramatic poses. The goal is authentic communication between photographer and model that creates professional portfolio content.

Direction Techniques: Models often rely on photographers for direction regarding styling, movement, and facial expressions during test shoots. Provide clear guidance while allowing natural personality to show through. The best images are captured when photographer and model communicate without speaking, creating intimate moments.

Standard Poses: Agencies want standard full-body shots, quarter-turn shots from various angles, and close-up face shots in relaxed poses for a natural look. Keep expressions professional and subdued rather than overly dramatic or extreme.

@awekatya photographed by @sashavasha at Studio C

Current Industry Standards for Styling and Wardrobe

Model test shoots require wardrobe that showcases versatility while maintaining timeless appeal. Unless the test is specifically for body images, more clothing is better, with simple and classic items that convey professionalism.

Essential Model Test Wardrobe:

Commercial Look: Well-fitted jeans, solid color tops, casual blazers
Fashion/Editorial: Classic pieces like white button-down shirts, black turtlenecks, structured jackets
Lifestyle: Comfortable yet polished pieces like sweaters, simple dresses, athletic wear for active shots
Professional: Business casual pieces that show range for commercial work

Styling Guidelines:

Choose timeless pieces over trendy items that date quickly
Stick to solid colors or subtle textures – avoid busy patterns or logos
Ensure proper fit – clothes should flatter the model’s body type
Include both casual and elevated options to show versatility
Plan 3-4 complete outfit changes for variety in the portfolio

@dariamatkova photographed by @sashavasha at Loft 2

Scandinavian Loft 2 is an interior photo studio inspired by Scandinavian design available for rent in Los Angeles. A large windows make this space a great location for shooting with natural light.

Studio Selection for Model Test Photography

Why Professional Studios Matter

Professional studios provide controlled environments essential for consistent, agency-quality results. Studios with abundant natural light, like those featuring north and west-facing windows, offer ideal conditions for model test photography.

Controlled Environment Benefits: Professional studios eliminate variables that can compromise image quality, providing consistent lighting conditions, professional backgrounds, and the privacy needed for effective model direction.

@gabrielleisgone photographed by @waylonpalmer at Yukon 2

White Steps Studio with Cyclorama Wall Yukon 2 includes Greek-inspired white steps, textured walls, two windows for natural light, a classic white cyclorama wall and a separate makeup room, making it ideal for model test photography requiring clean backgrounds and professional lighting control.

FD Photo Studio: Ideal for Model Tests

FD Photo Studio operates in Los Angeles, New York with studios specifically designed for model test photography. Professional photo studio services include model portfolios, high fashion catalog photo shoots, and actor head-shots.

Why FD Photo Studio Works for Model Tests:

Hourly rental starting at just $29 per hour with 1-hour minimums
Professional lighting and grip equipment included
100% private studios with locking doors
Easy online booking with no deposits required
Discounted packages available: 4-hour, 8-hour, and 12-hour packages for extended shoots

Photographed by @itsdlass at Brooklyn 4

Daylight studio Brooklyn 4 features large corner windows facing south-west and south-east, creating gorgeous natural light throughout the day. The open floor plan and versatile backdrop options make it ideal for capturing dynamic model test photography with exceptional natural lighting.

More Studio Options to Try When Shooting Model Test Shoots

LIC 2 – Wood Platform (New York): featuring gorgeous wood platform and reclaimed wood wall with auxiliary brick wall. Perfect for adding texture and warmth to model test portfolios.

@modelxmegan photographed by @megaloudshutter at LIC 2

Studio F – Los Angeles (Downtown): Studio F is famously known among client photographers as a “light box” due to incredible abundance of natural light at any period of day. The north and west-facing windows provide perfect conditions for clean model test photography. At 450 square feet, it’s ideal for intimate model test sessions.

@annaleovalerie photographed at Studio F

Post-Production and Delivery

Model test images require clean, professional editing that enhances without over-processing. Focus on color correction for accurate skin tones, exposure optimization, and subtle retouching that maintains natural texture. Modeling digitals should not be retouched as they’re meant to showcase natural appearance, while portfolio images can receive professional editing.

Delivery Requirements: Digital images should be at least 300dpi for high-quality online display. Professional delivery typically includes 30 or more images delivered online within a month of the shoot, providing variety for different agency submissions and portfolio needs.

Getting Started

Start by developing clear concepts with mood boards that show agencies your vision aligns with their needs. Research photographers in your area who specialize in model test photography and understand what agencies require for their talent.

Ready to create agency-quality model test photography? Explore available options at FD Photo Studio, check real-time availability, and take your photography to the next level with a professional studio rental.

1. Browse Available Studios: Visit our studio rental page to explore all 62+ locations

2. Check Equipment Lists: Review our comprehensive equipment offerings

3. Rent Your Studio: Use our 24/7 online booking system to secure your preferred date and time

4. Receive Your Check-In Code: Get your self-check-in code to access your studio seamlessly

Call us at +1 (323) 454-2323, or email us at info@fdphotostudio.com. We also have a live support chat on our website where you can get directions, request help, or ask questions.

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What Is Model Test Photography?

Model Digitals vs Portfolio Tests

Essential Equipment and Technical Setup

Camera and Lens Selection

Lighting Setup

Professional Posing and Direction for Agency-Standard Images

Current Industry Standards for Styling and Wardrobe

Studio Selection for Model Test Photography

Why Professional Studios Matter

FD Photo Studio: Ideal for Model Tests

More Studio Options to Try When Shooting Model Test Shoots

Post-Production and Delivery

Getting Started

Find a Photo Studio near you

L.A. Studios

N.Y.C Studios

Rent Studio

Clients Review

Events

Have Any Questions?