Testing Models

What does it mean if a modeling agency contacts you to test models?

What do they expect to get? Are there any specific contract terms? What do they use the photos for?

Some friends and I just shoot for fun, getting models and makeup artist, etc... on Craigslist and Model Mayhem. Not sure we are ready for modeling agency models, but they reached out to us to see if we would test their models. Just trying to figure out what we might be getting into.

Thanks,
Heath

Do they show up in time? Follow instructions wrt. clothes? Are they awake and sober? What were they like to work with?

Could always just ask them.

It all depends on the agency. Top fashion agencies will use top established photographers to help their new talent build their portfolio. Other agencies may not have access to top photographers and have to find other options.

In a very broad sense, on offer to "test models" probably means they would offer some talent to shoot with you for free. Asking them directly, even "what did you have in mind?" is the right next step. Since there are makeup/hair/styling/st​udio fees for every shoot, you should decide who makes that investment.