TFP in modeling: meaning, example and tips

How it works

TFP is a trade. The photographer tries out an idea or a technique, the make-up artist and the stylist build their books, and the model gets new frames. It is a common way for beginners to collect material at no cost.

Because there is no money, everything should be agreed out loud and in writing: how many pictures the model gets, by when, whether they will be retouched and where each side may use them. The usual misunderstanding arises when pictures are later sold or used in advertising.

TFP suits portfolios and social media. If the pictures are for a client's product or an advert, that is commercial work and the model should be paid.

In practice

A young photographer, a make-up artist and a model agree a TFP shoot. A short email goes out first: everyone gets ten retouched pictures within two weeks, the pictures are for portfolios and social media only, credited to everyone, and they will not be sold or used in advertising without a separate agreement.

What to watch for

Agree in writing: number of pictures, deadline, usage.
Look at the photographer's work and talk to models who have shot with them.
Do not go to a first TFP alone, or tell someone where you will be.

Related terms

How a job happensTest shootA test shoot is a shoot made not for a client but for the portfolio: the model and the photographer create pictures they need to show their work.Portfolio and materialsModel portfolioA portfolio is the collection of a model's best pictures, from which the agency and clients judge which jobs the model suits.Money and rightsModel releaseA model release is a document signed by the model that allows the photographer or client to use pictures of them in the stated way.Money and rightsUsage rightsUsage rights define where, for how long and in which countries a client may use pictures or footage of the model.Agencies and representationFreelance modelA freelance model works without an agency: finds clients, negotiates fees, signs agreements and invoices by themselves.

Questions and answers

Frequently asked

01What does TFP mean?

"Time for prints": the model gives time, the photographer gives pictures.

02Can TFP pictures be used commercially?

Only if both sides agreed to that in writing. Normally TFP pictures are for portfolios only.

TFP