TFP Shoot - What The "Time For Prints" Format Is All About

In the modelling sector, too, there are always new billing formats that deviate from the classic "booking for a fee" principle. In this context, you may have heard of TFP shoots. We explain what TFP photography is, how a TFP shoot differs from a classic photo shoot and what you as a model need to know before meeting the TFP photographer and how to handle your photos.

TFP basic knowledge: What does TFP photography mean?

The meaning behind the abbreviation "TFP" is easy to explain. It comes from the English and means something like "Time for Prints" or "Time for Pictures". This is an agreement between the model and photographer regarding the payment and utilisation of the photos taken. Models do not receive a traditional fee for a TFP photo shoot. They are paid, so to speak, with the results of their work in the form of photo prints or image files. In this context, the industry also speaks of a so-called "mutual service". In addition to the term TFP, the term TFCD has also been used since the advent of digital photography. This in turn means that models receive their prints digitally on a USB stick or CD. Nevertheless, the term TFP shoot is still the more commonly used.

What is the significance of TFP shoots?

The principle of TFP photography is simple: everyone involved, from the models to the TFP photographers to the stylists involved, should benefit from the campaign. The result is a win-win situation without any money flowing in the first step. TFP photography is therefore very important for building a portfolio . This applies both to the TFP photographers, who can use the resulting photos as advertising for their photo services, and to the stylists. Models can also use the TFP images to enhance their own portfolio or sedcard and thus obtain assignments. However, these so-called "free shoots" are also a clever alternative as part of training in the field of photography or as part of artistic studies. TFP photography is also important when it comes to realising unusual artistic project ideas. In this way, all participants take no risk, but in return reap the fruits of their labour.

What can I earn with a TFP shoot?

The special feature of a TFP shoot is that no money is paid in the first instance. All participants receive the rights of use to advertise themselves with the photos taken. Further "commercial" use in the sense of sale for money for specific projects is not intended. However, such clauses, which allow further utilisation to a certain extent for all parties, can be integrated into a model release. Furthermore, the portfolio built up with TFP images improves the chances of lucrative commissions from commercial clients. Indirectly, the earnings can easily amount to several hundred to thousand euros.

How do I get a TFP photo shoot?

A free shoot or the opportunity to expand your own portfolio free of charge is an attractive way to really get started in business. The best point of contact to make sure you don't miss out on such a TFP call for models or to find models for your own photo project is an experienced modelling agency such as starboxx or an online model database. starboxx has the insights and brings photographers, models and advertisers together.