HOW DO I GET TEST SHOTS?

Where do I start? You want to be a model and that takes your time. You need test shots. That means you need not just one photographer, but an assortment of photographers who are willing to work with you and get you ready for the camera. How do you find these photographers? It's easy, you get yourself a phone book and locate the addresses of several that are located in your area and go see them.

In general, photographers are more than willing to show anyone who takes an interest, samples of their work. And they are almost always willing to do test shots for aspiring models. It not only helps the model but it gives the photographer a chance to improve on their techniques or gives them a chance to try something new without risk of losing a client. Spend some time talking to the photographer, get comfortable with him or her. After all, he may know of a photo shoot you might just be right for, specially if the two of you work well together. Some photographers will do tests shots and supply you with some pictures for free and that is the ideal situation. However, some require you to pay for the film and that is alright and only fair. Some, on the other hand will charge you a fee for their time and that's not unusual, just make sure you know what your getting and make sure that photos are a part of the package.

If you see a good half dozen photographers, you should walk away with a dozen or so photographs that are professional and make you a shining star. You want head shots, full length and some action shots. You want to show prospective clients and agents that you have personality. You also want to be prepared for the photo shoot. Your make up should be on, your hair done, even though you will want to change your hair a few times during the shoot. You should also have several different clothing changes available. Talk to the photographer about clothing and see if he has suggestions about what to wear. After all, he may only want to do sporty shots, so you don't want to bring formal wear.

Make sure you have an assortment of black and white photos as well as color. The black and wbite photos are to show you at your very best, there isn't any color to distract the viewer from the subject of the photo, you. So make sure the photographer is shooting in black and white as well as color.

When the photographer calls you back to view the photos, take some time going over the pictures with the photographer. Listen to what he has to say, you can learn from him. If he thinks you need to make changes, you probably do. He is looking at you photographically and maybe you do need to lose a few pounds or bring up your eyes a little more. Do not take what he says personal, he is trying to help you.

Now the down side of dealing with photographers you have no working knowledge of. There are a lot of bad people out there and you have to use your own judgment about the good guys and bad guys. One rule of thumb is if you walk into his studio and he says take off your clothes, he's a bad guy. Collect your stuff and leave. Unless, of course, these are the type of photos you have arranged to have taken.

One last bit of advice, do not under any circumstances sign a photo release unless you are willing to see yourself in print without benefit of being paid. If he requires you to sign a release, make sure you get your fair share of the profits that may be derived from the sale of any photos of you. Get it in writing.