Go Behind The Scenes to a Makeup Photo Shoot

Walid Azami
Sep 1, 2018 · 2 min read
Paul C Buff Lights in Use

One of the most impactful things a photographer can do, is to appreciate and embrace the test shoot. Those that continuously create photographs to solidify their body of work, to expand on their expertise and branding will win the race in the long run. Test shoots are what givedirection to your career.

While it’s a safe bet to assume that most photographers know what a test shoot is, lets do a quick rundown for those that are newer. A test shoot is essentially working for free. It’s usually instigated by the photographer, and the entire team collaborateto create beautiful images for their portfolios. Makeup, hair, stylist, photographer andmodel all work for free. There are 3 ways to do a test shoot:

WHAT IS A TEST SHOOT?

  1. Good Test Shoot: Any photography session can be good. If you are contributing to your skills, this is wonderful. Shoot and be happy!
  2. Great Test Shoot: The better way is to photograph with intention. For example, shoot the type of jobs you hope to book in the future. Those hiring you need evidence that you’re capable of handling their needs. Show them by creating a test shoot that will impress! Many that hire are not a creative type. They cannot visualthe end product and giving samples of what you have created increases your odds of getting hired.
  3. Awful Test Shoot: Lately big companies, including many record labelslower the rate of photographers by saying it’s a test shoot. By mislabeling it, they are saving a lot of money by paying a smaller fee to the photographer. Since they call it a test shoot, they can pay below your standard rate. If they like the images, they’ll pay a little extra for rights. If they don’t like it, the record label lost a small investment only and your images are dead.

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Walid Azami

Written by

I will show you how to create a career and income from photography, based on my own career.

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