The question that Alba Soler poses, but more importantly answers, matters to anyone interested in fashion photography. A brand ambassador for Profoto, the fashion and advertising photographer works from London and Spain.
She posted self-titled “Do You Know What a Model Test Is?” to Flickr on Jan. 8, 2014, stripping out camera info from the EXIF. She uploaded the portrait to two different accounts—one associated with her “The Thinking Hat” website. That one is All Rights Reserved. The other version, which I selected, is Creative Commons. Hehe, she has yet a third Flickr, too.
Alba’s short answer to the question:
A model test has the finality to offer a flattering but realistic image of the model. At the same time of having a variety of looks and attitudes to show her versatility.
To put it in other words, is the tool that the agency is going to use to sell her as a brand. We as photographers have a limited number of photographs to demonstrate all that she can offer. A part from her physical qualities, we would also show her skill to act and play different roles.
However, it is not only a promotional tool, but a intense training that will give her more experience. In most of the cases, it is the first time the model face a real production, and it would be ideal to break the ice before being in front of a real client.
The long of it can be found in her blog post, which expands further and offers a range of photos illustrating the Model Test.
She joined Flickr in September 2007, October 2010, and January 2012, depending on the account. The newest and oldest are current. You can also find her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Photo Credit: Alba Soler