What Is a Model Call in Photography? (And Why It Might Be the Perfect Time to Book your Bridgend Photographer)
- adelemorris
- Jun 4
- 5 min read
What Is a Model Call (And Why Photographers Run Them)
Have you ever seen the words “model call” pop up in a photographer’s post and wondered what it actually means?
Spoiler: it has nothing to do with catwalks or fashion week!
In this blog, I’ll walk you through:
What a model call is (and what it’s not)
Why photographers run them (and what’s in it for you!)
Who model calls are perfect for (especially expecting parents)
How to make the most of one if you apply
As a Bridgend newborn photographer with a safe, specialist studio in Porthcawl, I run model calls a few times a year for maternity, newborn, or family sessions, and they’re a brilliant opportunity to capture timeless images, often at a discounted rate (or even complimentary).
What Is a Model Call?
A model call is an open invitation from a photographer for specific types of people, families, or babies to take part in a photoshoot, usually for creative, portfolio-building, or educational reasons.
It’s a way for photographers to:
Test out a new product or set
Build a specific style of portfolio
Show a seasonal look (like spring or Christmas setups)
Capture content for a campaign or upcoming launch
Train a team or trial a new process (with your full safety assured)
Model calls are not just “free sessions” — they’re collaborative and purposeful.
In return for your time, you’ll usually receive professionally edited images, and sometimes discounts or added extras.
Why Photographers Offer Model Calls
There are a few key reasons I personally offer model calls in my studio:
New Prop, Setup, or Style
If I’ve invested in a beautiful new prop (hello handmade Moses baskets!) or a seasonal backdrop, I may offer a model call to showcase it in use.
Portfolio Updates
Each year, I refresh certain types of sessions — especially for events like Rainbow Baby Day, Breastfeeding Awareness Month, or inclusive sessions for families of children with additional needs.
Charity Campaigns
As a volunteer for Remember My Baby and an advocate for inclusive photography, I sometimes need real families for blog, video, or social awareness work.
Model Calls for New Training
If I’m mentoring a photographer or bringing on a team member, I need safe, supportive clients to work with during training days.
What You Get in Return
Every model call I offer includes:
A fully styled session in my Porthcawl studio or on location.
Safety-led posing and baby-led timing.
A minimum of 3 digital images.
Optional print or upgrade opportunities at a discount
A chance to be featured on my socials or website (only with your full permission). Please note, if you opt out at any point, the full session charge will apply.
And just to be clear: there is never any pressure to buy anything — ever. Some model calls have a small booking fee to confirm commitment and cover costs, but this is always clearly stated.
Who Model Calls Are Perfect For
Model calls are ideal if you:
Are pregnant or have a newborn (under 3 weeks old)
Have a little one who fits a brief (e.g. twins, rainbow babies, siblings, breastfeeding, generational families, etc.)
Are comfortable having your session shared online (though I always check preferences!)
Are happy to collaborate and give feedback
Love the look of my style and brand
Client Feedback: Bryngarw Model Call Session 2025
We were lucky enough to be selected for one of Adele’s model call sessions at Bryngarw Country Park, and we’re so glad we said yes!
As a family of five (with three girls aged 10, 6, and 18 months) and our Labradoodle in tow, we weren’t quite sure how a short 20-minute session would work, especially with our toddler and the dog! But Adele was brilliant from the start. She instantly made us feel at ease, kept things light and fun, and somehow managed to keep all three kids engaged the entire time.
The whole session felt really natural and relaxed, not rushed at all, even though it was a mini session. It honestly felt more like a family stroll through the park while Adele worked her magic behind the camera. The location was absolutely beautiful too, with so many gorgeous backdrops that really brought the photos to life.
What surprised us most was just how much Adele captured in such a short space of time. We’ve seen our gallery and we’re completely blown away. The photos are full of real smiles, cuddles, and little in-between moments that truly reflect who we are as a family.
It felt really special to be part of a model call, knowing we were helping Adele shape her future sessions, while also getting the opportunity to have our family captured so beautifully. We’d definitely do it again!
Thank you so much, Adele, we’ll treasure these photos always.
From The Jones Family.
About Adele
Related Blog Recommendations
If you’re new here or considering taking part in a model call, I’d love to share a little more about why I do things the way I do. These blog posts are a great place to start:
How My Photography Group Helps You Prepare for Your Session – Discover how my private Facebook group isn’t just for updates, but a warm, welcoming space where families connect, ask questions, and feel supported before the camera even comes out.
Where It All Began: The Classroom That Shaped My Photography Journey – Learn how my background as a teacher and SEN specialist shaped the way I approach every session, from patience and communication to the way I plan and adapt for every family.
10 Real Reasons I Got an Enhanced DBS Check (Even Though I Didn’t Have To) – This isn’t just a tick-box for me. It’s about trust, safety, and showing families, especially those with young children or additional needs, that they’re always in caring, professional hands.
These stories give you a deeper sense of who I am, how I work, and why I care so much about the experience, not just the photos. If you're thinking about booking a session or model call, they’re a lovely starting point.
Stay Connected With Me
I’d love for you to become part of my growing community of kind, supportive, like-minded parents and families.
Join my VIP Facebook Group for early access to special offers, behind-the-scenes peeks, session tips, and a safe space to ask questions and share your parenting journey. It's where many of my best ideas (and most heartwarming stories) are shared first.
Follow me on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram for a daily dose of real moments, helpful insights, and beautiful photography that celebrates your family's story.
Whether you're booking a session or just soaking in inspiration, I’m so happy you’re here. Let’s keep in touch.
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