Jonathan Riley
Model Test Shoots & Portfolio Sessions
Hello!
I’m Jonathan — a photographer specialising in model test shoots and portfolio development.
This guide explains what a test shoot is, how to prepare, and why it’s one of the most valuable investments you can make in your modelling career.
What Is a Test Shoot?
A test shoot is a collaborative session between a photographer and a model, designed to build experience and refine skills in a low-pressure environment.
Unlike commercial shoots, there’s no specific campaign or client, just space to experiment with different looks, poses, and lighting styles.
Think of your portfolio as your pitch deck. It’s what showcases your versatility, potential, and marketability to agencies, brands, and clients. Strong, professional images open doors, so investing in quality portfolio work is key.
Paid vs Unpaid Test Shoots — Why It Matters
Everyone loves the idea of a free photoshoot, but it’s important to understand the difference between collaborating on a test and hiring a photographer. The goal of any test shoot is to create marketable images that help you book work. If you’re signed with an agency, they’ll often recommend trusted photographers who know exactly what agencies need: clean, natural, well-lit images that sell.
Why Relying on Unpaid Shoots Can Hold You Back
Building your portfolio entirely through unpaid tests can limit you. Free shoots often come with restrictions — minimal direction, limited styling, or images that don’t truly represent your potential.
Your portfolio is how agencies and clients decide if you’re worth booking. Shoots are often free because the photographer is starting their career and building a portfolio.
If your images aren’t polished or don’t meet current industry standards, opportunities slip away.
Investing in professional test shoots ensures high-quality results that showcase your strengths, confidence, and versatility — helping you stand out in a competitive industry.
Should You Pay for a Test Shoot?
It depends on where you are in your career. If you’re new, paying for a professional test shoot is the fastest way to build a portfolio that agencies take seriously. If you’re established or have agency backing, there may be room for collaborative, unpaid tests. Either way, it’s essential to respect the value that both the model and the photographer bring to the table. Good images open doors — and a well-executed test shoot can truly be a career-shaping experience.
How to Prepare
Preparation is easy—and part of what makes test shoots enjoyable. Before the session, we’ll discuss wardrobe and reference ideas. I’ll share a Pinterest inspiration board to help guide outfit choices, and we’ll mostly use what’s already in your wardrobe. You don’t need expensive clothes; great images come from confidence, connection, and light. Once we’ve finalised the theme and wardrobe, we’ll lock in your shoot date.
Makeup & Hair
A test shoot is all about showing your natural look. Keep it clean and fresh:
- Light concealer, mascara, and groomed brows
- Neutral lip colour, bring other colours
- Exfoliate and moisturise the night before
- Get a manicure and pedicure
- Get a good night’s sleep
- No alcohol the day before, drink water
- No stress about blemishes — light retouching takes care of that
For hair, stay true to your current look, texture.
All of the above could change depending on the look we are going for.
Packing Checklist
The best way to ease pre-shoot nerves? Pack early, not on the day or the night before.
Bring:
- Outfits (pre-planned with me and ironed)
- Shoes & accessories (belts, jewellery, etc.)
- Undergarments, Nude is always a go-to colour,
- bring black and white also
- Makeup for touch-ups
- Water, snacks
- Any inspiration or reference images
Prepping early gives you time to add finishing touches — a great jacket, statement belt, or simple layering piece can elevate your look.
Bring more than you think you’ll need — variety gives us flexibility on set.
Ready to Book Your Test Shoot?
