Your First Test Shoot: What to Expect and How to Prepare

What a test shoot is

A test shoot (often just a 'test', or TFP for 'time for print' or 'test for portfolio') is a session built around learning rather than a paying job. Everyone works in exchange for the images instead of a fee. For a new model it is how you build your book - the set of photos an agency and clients use to picture you in different looks - and where you get comfortable in front of a camera.

Who is usually on set

Often a small team: the photographer, a hair and makeup artist (an MUA), and sometimes a stylist pulling clothes. On a simple test it may just be you and the photographer.

If your agency set it up, they have vetted everyone. If you arranged it yourself, do the same - check the photographer's recent work, confirm it is a proper studio or public space, and bring a friend. If you are under 18, a parent or guardian comes along, always.

What to bring

Bring options so you are never stuck: a few simple, fitted pieces in plain colours, nude seamless underwear that will not show lines, and your own basics like a singlet and jeans. Skin-tone heels are handy. Add the everyday stuff too - water, a snack, any brief or moodboard, your phone and ID. Turn up with clean hair and skin and minimal makeup, since the artist starts from a blank canvas.

The rough flow of the day

Most tests run a few hours. You will usually start with hair and makeup, talk through the looks, then shoot in sets - a few outfit or lighting changes with short breaks between. The photographer directs, you move, and you will often check a few frames on the back of the camera as you go. It is relaxed and repetitive by nature; there is no audience and no wrong answer while you find what works.

Taking direction and posing

Posing is a skill you learn by doing, not something you are meant to arrive already knowing. Expect small, constant adjustments - chin down, weight on the back foot, softer hands - and keep moving slowly between shapes rather than freezing in one. Ask questions, notice what earns a 'yes', and remember to breathe. Every model was stiff at their first test; practising is the whole point of one.

Money and image usage

A legitimate test should not cost you money. On a TFP arrangement nobody pays anybody - you all trade time for the photos. Be wary of anyone asking for an upfront 'shoot fee' or pushing you to buy a package to be 'considered' or signed; that is a classic scam.

Before you shoot, agree in writing how each side can use the images and whether you will receive the edited files, so there are no surprises down the track.

Before you shoot

A test builds your book; on TFP nobody pays a fee.
Bring options, nude seamless underwear, water and a snack.
Arrive with clean skin and hair so the artist can start fresh.
Posing is learned - expect direction and just keep moving.
Agree image usage in writing before you start.

FAQ

What does TFP mean?

TFP stands for 'time for print' (also called 'test for portfolio'). Everyone - photographer, model, and any hair, makeup or styling - works in exchange for the resulting images rather than a fee. It is the usual arrangement for the early test shoots that build your portfolio.

Should I pay for a test shoot?

No. A genuine test does not cost you money. If someone asks for an upfront shoot fee, or says you must buy photos or a package to be signed or 'considered', treat it as a red flag and walk away. Applying to and being signed by a real agency here is always free.

What should I bring to a test shoot?

A few simple, fitted outfits in plain colours, nude seamless underwear, your own basics, and skin-tone heels if you have them. Add water, a snack, any brief or moodboard, your phone and ID. Come with clean hair and minimal makeup so the artist can start from a blank canvas.

Ready to start your book? Get scouted - it is free →