This work explores the use of nonlinear normal modes (NNMs) as a guide to the model calibration of geometrically nonlinear finite element models. Initial updates to the structure’s modulus of elasticity are performed using the structure’s linear normal modes of vibration and measured initial conditions. Further updates to the structure’s boundary conditions are performed by comparing the center deflection of the plate predicted from the NNMs measured using high speed 3D digital image correlation and calculated from nonlinear reduced order models (NLROMs). The resulting time domain modal deformation predicted and measured matches well. Finally, the updated NLROMs are used to examine the stress distribution along the NNM providing a potential cause for observe experimental failures.