Shooting artists and rising stars alike, we share one thing in common – love for what we do and the top of your game only brings on new challenges. I’ve had the pleasure of doing a quick collaboration (collab) test with DLRN (FKA Delorean) with Sean LaMarr working with them on some quick collateral for their new album to drop soon (? maybe I’ve said too much) and Glenda Mac of 1000WattsMedia (AKA mastermind in all of this chaos). You can follow them out on their twitter or if you’re looking for a quick YouTube video – a personal favorite, “Look Alice.”
These photographs are as basic as you can get. The reason why there are model tests is a mini-photoshoot with not much of an emphasis on theme, but testing the waters on how the entire team works together. Seeing if they can stand by the face that I drink a Corona (Maker’s Mark + Coke works too) ritually before each set or that I like to sing Disney fairytales while I conjure up muse during a photo session. You can generally get a good feeling about the cast in just about 8.4 minutes. Here’s the break down during a first session with a model.
.2 seconds to make eye contact.
8.1 minutes in goofing off.
.1 second to realize we actually need to stay focused.
This is absolutely real. Being able to laugh, defocus, and goof off a little (no more than 8.1 minutes recommended) helps everyone to relax and take a step back and reflect while the photoshoot is happening. One of the most important things is figuring out how to work together and set your expectations on what can be executed as a team.
The Collab Test is the team’s benchmark on its creative communication and ability to execute as a unit (I sometimes call it a family because it feels that way sometimes). It’s also important that you debrief and reflect with the team immediately after any session – to welcome criticism when constructive is the essence of growing and becoming better no matter if you’re a photographer, MUA, model, guy who eats the free food and snacks at the photoshoot.
A positive session generally leads you to future sessions where you continually learn to contribute, inspire, and grow with your cast.