Test Shots

Submitting test shots

So we can make a thorough assessment of your suitability to work with us, we ask you to submit some test shots. They will remain absolutely confidential (read more in our Privacy Policy). We’re quite specific with the poses and framing – please help us make a good assessment by following these guidelines.

We have two similar-but-different sets of self-images we need from you. Check the email we sent for the type we need right now.

Test Shots are a set of images we need to assess your suitability for working with us, in general. That’s described on this page. Grooming Shots are a set of images we require of you to show any grooming issues that might affect your booked shoot. More info.

No one to help make Test Shots?

While it’s easiest with a friend to help you make test shots, we know that’s not always convenient. We got you (opens in a new tab, you’ll need that page and this page open).

If you need any help, make contact with us, and we’ll be happy to help!

Tips for making test shots

ABOVE: Test shots should always be shot with the camera in “portrait” orientiation.

Also, keep in mind these tips:

  • Using the flash is preferred, or outside on a bright-but-cloudy day.
  • Outside when it’s sunny is ok, so long as you’re in the shade, not full sun
  • Inside at night, you must use a flash!
  • Set your camera to take images of 2 megapixels or more (most digital cameras  and phones these days will do 6 to 12mp no problem, but a webcam will not)
  • Please let your hair down for these images, but have it tucked behind your ears
  • The image below show what your assistant must see through the viewfinder before taking the picture. Resist the tendency to include too much background!
  • Shoot in “portrait” mode – with the camera’s longest side on the left or right, for all images
  • If you have notable features, such as tattoos, or piercings, please make a clear closeup of them as well (we are never concerned about scars, moles or birthmarks). These may not negatively affect your assessment, if we know about them up front – please don’t try to hide anything!

Image 1

  • Pose: Applicant holding sign with their MDB ID (this 8-digit number is in the Subject of most emails we send you), and today’s date.
  • Eyes open, hair tucked behind ears.
  • Framing: Top of head to waist.
Image 2

Image 2

  • Pose: Applicant with top and bra off. Eyes to camera, smiling. Hands relaxed by side. Square on to camera, moderately relaxed. Hair tucked behind ears.
  • Framing: Top of head to waist (just above navel)
Image 3

Image 3

  • Pose: Applicant facing camera left, hands behind back, posture relaxed. Hair tucked behind ears.
  • Note: Ensure only left breast is in “perfect” profile.
  • Note: Do not stick chest out – stand relaxed, naturally
  • Framing: Top of head to waist.
Image 4

Image 4

  • Pose: Applicant with their back to the camera, head neutral. Hands by side. Feet together. Stand neutrally. Hair tucked behind ears.
  • Note: Do not wear a loose skirt, or other baggy clothes – tight jeans or just underwear preferred
  • Framing: Top of head to bottom of feet.
Image 5

Image 5

  • Pose: [opposite to image 4] Applicant facing the camera, hands by side. Feet together. Stand neutrally. Hair tucked behind ears.
  • Framing: Top of head to bottom of feet.
Image 6

Image 6

  • Pose: Applicant looking  to camera, ears visible, hair tucked behind ears.
  • Do not use a wide angle lens!
  • Framing: A face closeup. Include all of chin, ears and hair

Illustrations by @corelle_vaire.