The 16th season begins with 14 models moving into a Los Angeles penthouse and meeting model Erin Wasson before attempting to walk a runway in a large plastic bubble over a pool of water. At panel, one contestant is eliminated.

The 13 remaining models get acting tips and then perform on stage. At the photo shoot, the girls pose with live bees on them. Model Alek Wek is a guest judge.

The models receive makeovers and are styled by fashion expert Lori Goldstein. At the photo shoot, the girls wear couture dresses and are photographed in small groups. At panel, one person is eliminated.

The models get nervous when they learn that a runway challenge will use fire as an element. At the photo shoot, the girls work in pairs to film a retro-style coffee commercial.

The models work in teams to write, direct and perform in a cosmetics commercial, which leads one girl to read a competitor's diary. At the photo shoot, the girls pose with wild animals at the Los Angeles Zoo for a line of faux-fur clothes from guest judge Rachel Zoe.

Tyra gives the ladies tips on handling fame and the girls mingle with fans at a Century City mall. At the photo shoot, the models pose covered with mud and are divided into two groups---blondes and brunettes---for two separate pictures. Model Sonia Dara is a guest judge.

The girls pose for a breast-cancer-awareness ad campaign shot by Nigel Barker. Later, the models visit Universal Studios for a photo shoot with stylist Eric Daman.

The models pose at a landfill, where they wear eco-friendly couture outfits and are photographed by Nigel Barker. Also: Tyra talks to the girls about the importance of creating a portfolio. Designer Lana Marks is a guest judge.

Highlights of the season's first half are featured.