I recently got a message on my other platforms asking if I wanted to give paid online lessons in being a model, sharing my knowledge and experience with people interested in becoming a model. Honestly, fuck that, this should be common knowledge. So here is the intro to my knowledge about modelling as someone who has 7+ years of experience in the field; What is TFP and when/why should you use it.
What is TFP?
Let’s start with an explanation, what is TFP? Most commonly the abbreviation stands for ‘time for print’ or ‘time for photo’. The idea is, both parties put time into a photo that can be used by both for non commercial use. None of the participants pay one another, and usually none of the parties earn money from the material made. The main use for these type of shoots is generally expanding the portfolios of all people participating in the shoot. The important part of a TFP shoot is that all parties gain something from the shoot, usually in the form of images, sometimes experience.
Why should I shoot on TFP basis?
When you are just starting out as a model, photographer, makeup artist, stylist or whatever you want to be in the community; you will likely not have a portfolio. Without a portfolio, people won’t be able to see what you are capable of and what you have to offer. And if someone doesn’t know or understand that of you, why would they want to work with you or even book you? The main ways of expanding your portfolio are by either paying someone of a higher level than you to work together or by finding someone of your level to work on TFP basis with. Once you build up a portfolio filled with some diversity and experience, you can start thinking of changing the basis on which you shoot. But in the first few years, stick to gaining experience and building a solid and strong portfolio.
When should I shoot on TFP basis?
People get all kinds of hot and bothered for the idea of a ‘TFP’ shoot. It’s a fun and cheap way to create art and get awesome pictures, sure! But something important to keep in mind is when to use TFP and when not to.
I made this handy diagram to better understand what way a payment of TFP shoot should go
The main thing about TFP shoots you see, is that it is common to work on TFP basis with people on your level. If someone is bellow your level, it is acceptable to ask for compensation. If someone is above your level, it is accaptable to offer compensation. Of course there are exceptions to these guides, you should always be able to decide per collaboration what base you find fitting and to discuss this with the other participant. But it’s a good rule of thumb.
‘But I constantly get asked to shoot tfp by people below my level, help!?!?!’ Yeah that is one of the sad things. Some people simply only want to work on TFP with everyone, sometimes because it’s all they know, sometimes because they don’t have the budget and sometimes because they have a bit of an ego. You should never feel pressured to accept a TFP shoot if you don’t think it will be beneficial for you. Remember, a TFP shoot should be beneficial for ALL parties participating in the shoot.
@MISSY @PENNY @SEAN @TEAM @EIRENNE @KILEY @MICKEY @HOPEFULSUICIDEGIRLS
