If possible, always try and arrange a test shoot before the actual event. I find that this helps in several ways. Firstly it helps the prospective model to relax and get to know you. Secondly, you can check out the shooting location (I do most of my shooting at my place or the model's house). The best benefit however, is that you can both go through the test pictures (whether they be paper or digital images) and select favourite poses to use as a basis for the "real" shoot.
I was approached by the young lady below to take a series of photos for her. We agreed that the session should take place at her place because she has lots of space and I was given free rein to explore the house for suitable locations.
We started with a few test shots in her bedroom and ended up in the garage where she kept an old Italian sports car.
The images on the next page represent just a few of the many pictures taken on the day.