I recently had the opportunity to spend an afternoon shooting with two experienced fashion models, Tamyka and Angel, during a group event in Brighton. It took place at the quirky Chimera House Studios, which provided a unique backdrop and plenty of inspiration for experimenting with different setups.
The session was incredibly beneficial for me as a photographer because test shoots like this are vital for building my portfolio and allowing me to try out new techniques, styles, and lighting approaches.
As a portrait photographer, I believe test shoots are a brilliant way to improve my skills. Working alongside other photographers in a group setting creates a supportive environment, which encourages everyone to share ideas and collaborate. This was exactly the atmosphere at the Brighton shoot—well-organised and relaxed.
Despite the limited time, the structure of rotating photographers allowed all of us to photograph each look without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The space at Chimera House was both a blessing and a challenge. On a stormy day, natural light was scarce, so I had to adapt using the small amount of window light available.
I also brought a couple of speedlights and a collapsible softbox in my bag, but due to space constraints, I ended up mostly relying on my Nikon Z6ii paired with a Nikkor 50mm f/1.4 or a Viltrox 20mm f/2.8. This camera handles higher ISO settings extremely well, making it perfect for low-light conditions.
To add a creative touch, I used a small LED RGB cube for some shots, experimenting with pops of colour against the moody interior.
Throughout the session, I shot in black and white using the camera’s colour profile while still capturing RAW files, giving me the freedom to decide later whether to keep the monochrome look or revert to colour in post-processing. With a bit of noise reduction in Lightroom, the final images came out beautifully in both formats.
By taking part in events like this, I not only expand my portfolio but also hone my skills, ensuring that when I work with individual clients or small business owners, I can deliver images that truly stand out.
Every test shoot offers new learning experiences, from handling unusual lighting to directing models in creative ways. I’m delighted with how the photographs turned out and can’t wait for the next opportunity to push my craft further.
