Model Tests – My Experience & Tips for New Faces

Last week, I had the pleasure of shooting a model test with the wonderful Alizée from Sight Management Barcelona.

It was a spontaneous session — another photo shoot had been cancelled, but I still had my studio booking at Camaleó Coworking Barcelona. I decided to take the opportunity to work with Alizée, as I had been wanting to photograph her for a long time.

Organising last-minute model tests made me realise how much experience I’ve gained over the years — and how much I enjoy sharing what I’ve learned.

As a fashion photographer, I have created numerous model tests and polaroids throughout my career. I take this type of work very seriously, because I believe that a model’s success depends largely on the quality of their portfolio and polaroids. Many clients and agencies make their first selection based on these images — deciding whether to invite a model to a casting or a photo shoot.

That’s why I consider professional, high-quality model tests absolutely essential — they must show the model at their very best.

How I Work

A typical model test session lasts 3–4 hours, includes 3 to 5 different looks, and combines both studio and outdoor shooting.

Around 2–3 hours in the studio (natural light + flash)
Around 1 hour outdoors for variety and natural light
I deliver 10 final, retouched and color-corrected images (2–3 per look), along with a few additional favorites from the session.

My Tips for Models

1. Appearance

Schedule your model test when you feel your best — confident and healthy. Confidence always shows in front of the camera.

I never alter a model’s features; I only remove temporary blemishes like pimples. And yes — clean, fresh hair is essential for a great shoot!

2. Styling & Looks

Model tests today go far beyond jeans and a T-shirt. It’s important to create variety in moods and styles — from natural and soft to expressive and editorial.

You can work with a stylist, or we can prepare looks together. Clothes don’t need to be designer labels — you can find great pieces at Zara, H&M, Bershka, or in vintage stores. What matters most is that garments look new, fit well, and hold their shape on camera.

Bring neutral tones (black, white, beige), a pair of nude or black heels, and nude underwear.

💡 Pro tip: Many models buy clothes for the shoot and later return them to the store (except underwear or swimwear), as long as they’re kept in perfect condition.

3. Makeup

While it’s possible to shoot without a stylist, working without a makeup artist is much harder. Makeup and hair changes help reflect different moods — from fresh and natural to dramatic and editorial. A good MUA can completely transform the energy of the photos.

4. Posing

It’s perfectly fine for new models to feel unsure at first. I always guide you and help you relax in front of the camera. Still, it’s a great idea to practice poses by watching videos on YouTube or looking through fashion editorials. It builds confidence and helps the session flow more smoothly.

5. Attitude

Your energy is everything! Bring positivity, curiosity, and professionalism to the shoot. Even if it’s “just a test,” it’s an opportunity to build your reputation. You never know — today’s photographer, stylist, or makeup artist could recommend you for your next job.

If you have any questions or ideas about other tips I could include in this article, feel free to message me directly on Instagram at @maria.chi_photography.

And if you’d like to book a model test session with me, you can reach me via email or DM on Instagram.

Thank you — and good luck with your modeling journey!

Model tests