One of the things I enjoy most about photographing experienced models is seeing what happens when they really know how to move in front of the camera.
I photographed Kiersten, a Dallas-based model, for a studio model test between her other modeling assignments. We didn’t have a lot of time, but we created so many images—and had such a good time working together—that we immediately scheduled another shoot.
Movement Makes a Difference in Model Photography
At 5’11”, Kiersten has a strong presence in front of the camera, but what really stood out during this session was her movement.
Experienced models rarely move from one static pose to another and stop. Instead, there’s a flow between positions—small changes in the shoulders, hands, expression, weight, and body angle that continually give the photographer something different to capture.
Kiersten was especially good at that.
Once I had the lighting established and Kiersten on set, I could concentrate on timing and composition while she continually changed her positioning and expression.
Learning to Pose Naturally in Front of the Camera
Movement is a skill that develops with experience.
New models sometimes think posing means finding the right position and holding it while the photographer takes several pictures. In practice, some of the strongest photographs happen between poses.
Learning how your body photographs, understanding your angles, and developing a natural rhythm in front of the camera can make an enormous difference during a model test.
A photographer can provide direction, but as a model becomes more experienced, that process becomes increasingly collaborative.
What Is a Model Test?
A model test is different from the simple digitals or snapshots an agency may request for a submission.
Digitals are generally straightforward photographs designed to show what a model currently looks like with minimal styling and retouching.
A model test gives us more room to work with lighting, wardrobe, posing, movement, expression, and styling to create images that can help develop a portfolio.
Agency requirements vary, so new models should always check an agency’s current submission instructions before investing in photographs specifically for an application.
Behind the Shoot
Hair and makeup for Kiersten’s session were provided by Rey Medrano of Beauty Dish Studios, and I handled the photography and styling.
Krystel Pitts assisted during the shoot.
The combination of an experienced model, a simple studio setup, and a collaborative team allowed us to create a surprising amount of variety in a relatively short session.
Model Test Photography in Dallas
I photograph both new and experienced models in my Dallas studio, from straightforward agency-style digitals to more developed model tests and portfolio sessions.
For newer models, I’ll also help with posing and movement throughout the session. You don’t need to arrive knowing exactly what to do in front of the camera—that’s part of what we’re there to work on.