Getting started in photography is expensive. The expense of having to build a portfolio can be frustrating, if you don't know what you're doing - which many of us don't in the beginning. One expense - for both parties - can be frustrating when starting out. Models need to build a portfolio, so collaborating with photographers to create images becomes extremely valuable.
THE BASICS
TFP is an acronym for "Time For Prints" and is a common term used by models and photographers. TFP signifies that the photographer will provide the model with digital images (sent via email or social media) they take, in exchange for her modeling services.
HOW IS IT FREE??
These terms signify that the model and photographer (makeup artist, hair stylist, etc) are in full agreement that the work and services they are providing is a trade amongst themselves; neither party will receive a payment; nor will they make a payment. Their "currency" is the service they are providing, not money.
While there are many benefits to both parties, the two that stand out the most are:
1. The model can build a portfolio at little or no cost
2. The photographer can build a portfolio at little or no cost
ARE THERE ANY COMMON RULES FOR SHOOTS?
Each TFP shoot, either one-on-one or in a group setting (like our events), has their own set of terms & conditions set for the shoot.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The number of images which the photographer delivers to the model can range from 1 to ALL (edited images). Speed of Delivery can vary, especially for an unpaid shoot.
Our events require photographers to provide a minimum of 3 images per model within 6 weeks from the shoot date. We understand that this seems like a long time frame, but this allows the photographer to edit the images, submit to publications, attend to their other job (if needed), attend to other paid sessions (they come first), and attend to their family's needs. Photographers are human too!
Many, and we do mean MANY, photographers quickly edit their images post-event and contact the model(s) from the shoot, so they can have their image(s) on social media first. Not everyone has that ability, so our requirement allows them to go about their lives with a more than flexible time frame.
CONTRACTS? RELEASES?
Every shoot is different, however, 90% of our events do require models to complete a model release prior to shooting. This also requires photographers to submit their information for our Master List (which is provided via post-event) to exchange with the models, so they may receive their images. Our model release states that it covers the photographers who are confirmed AAC members - such as having their contact information on our Master List for that event - confirms their attendance as a member.
Surely you can go shoot TFP without any contract or release, however, having one will help you prevent any further misunderstandings and/or legal issues for all parties involved. Better make it a rule and stick to it every shoot you go into!
GIVE THE PHOTOGRAPHER CREDIT! GIVE THE MODEL CREDIT!
If you are taking the photo or your photo was taken, credit the other Creative involved if they ask you to do so (in our Model Releases - it is required that both parties credit the other when sharing on social media). Crediting each other is a great way for not only you to build a portfolio, but the other Creative as well. Don't ignore the other's hard work that it took to create that image, it only takes a few minutes to credit each other. Also, ignoring to credit the other Creative(s) involved with the images will hurt your credibility as a Creative...if you aren't dependable to your word via model release, word will get around and no one will want to collaborate with you.
Now, we're sure you're sitting there thinking, "Why on earth would I want to work for free?" You actually won't be working for "free," but in exchange for high-quality images, which you can use in your portfolio.
Generally, you'll find more amateur photographers and models doing TFP work to build their portfolios and gain experience. Occasionally, you'll stumble across a professional who wants to do a TFP shoot get a specific look or try something new (and it does happen quite often).
Models, on the off chance, don't receive your image(s) by the 6 week mark, reach out to the photographer from the Master List info provided to you post-event. If you don't hear anything from them, let us know. Photographers, on the off chance, that you are not credited after asking the model to do so post-event on your images, please let us know.