Hi everyone! I'm Pavel Demidovich, a photographer, and in this article I want to share my personal experience working with models on different terms: TFP (Time for Photos), paid model work, and commercial shoots where I get paid as the photographer. I’ll focus especially on TFP shoots, because that’s where I started, and there are many nuances I wish I had known at the beginning.
What is a TFP shoot (in simple terms)
TFP stands for Time for Photos (or Time for Print). It’s a collaboration format where models, photographers, makeup artists, stylists, etc. work for free in exchange for final photos for their portfolios. From my experience, TFP is the perfect way to build your portfolio and grow creatively. I need photos - the model needs photos. I message the model, pitch an idea, we agree on details, shoot, and everyone benefits. It’s fast, efficient, and mutually rewarding.
How a TFP shoot usually works (step-by-step)
- • I message the model via Instagram or a modeling platform.
- • I pitch a creative concept.
- • We agree on details: the style, location, makeup, and wardrobe.
- • We pick a date and location.
- • We did the photoshoot.
- • We sign a model release form.
- • I deliver the edited photos to the model.
Why model release forms are absolutely essential
When I first started, I sometimes didn’t sign model releases - and I paid the price. In one case, I organized the entire shoot: paid for the studio, found a makeup artist, styled everything. A couple of weeks later, the model messaged me asking me to remove all the photos from the internet. And that was it - all the effort, time, and money wasted. Since then, I always use a model release form. It’s a simple legal document that confirms the model’s consent to use the images. Professional models, especially those who get paid, always work with releases, and these kinds of problems just don’t happen.
Working with Professional Models: Why It’s Better
From my own experience, working with professional models is just a completely different story. It’s smoother, more structured, and simply more reliable.
When you’re working with someone who does this as a job - not just a hobby - the attitude is professional from start to finish. They come on time, they’re well-prepared, they know their angles, and they understand the flow of the shoot. There’s no need to explain every pose or manage expectations - they get it. You can focus entirely on lighting, composition, and creativity instead of micromanaging or compensating for inexperience.
Also, I’ve noticed that professional models respect your time. They show up even if it's early morning or late in the evening. There are no last-minute cancellations, no ghosting, no "sorry I forgot" messages. You get what you agreed on.
Another important thing - they know the importance of a model release. You don’t need to convince them to sign anything; it’s part of the process for them. Honestly, I don’t remember a single instance where a model later asked me to remove photos or restricted my usage. That peace of mind is incredibly valuable - especially when you're investing your own money in the shoot (like booking a studio or a makeup artist).
In the end, you get better photos with less stress. That’s why I never hesitate to pay for a professional model when I’m working on something important or commercial. It's an investment that pays off in quality and peace of mind.
Great TFP Collaboration That Led to New Opportunities
One of my most successful TFP shoots happened with a model who had just moved to the city and wanted to update her portfolio. We quickly aligned on a clean, minimalistic concept using natural light in a rented apartment. She showed up fully prepared - makeup done, wardrobe sorted, with clear moodboard references. The shoot was smooth and productive, and we ended up getting published on a small fashion blog. We signed the release right after the shoot, and everything was handled professionally. Since then, she’s referred me to other models, and we’ve even worked together on a few paid projects.
TFP Gone Wrong: A Costly No-Show
On the other hand, there was a time when I planned a creative shoot where I took on all the expenses: rented a beautiful studio, booked a makeup artist, and even secured a wardrobe from a local stylist. The model confirmed everything… until the night before, when she just stopped replying. She never showed up, no explanation, no follow-up. The studio was booked, the makeup artist was already on the way, and I had no one to shoot. That experience taught me the hard way that verbal agreements aren't enough, and that some people just don’t take TFP seriously. Since then, I only work with models who demonstrate real commitment, even for unpaid collaborations.
Types of TFP contracts
There are a few common types of TFP agreements:
- • Verbal agreement - common, but risky.
- • Written release - a basic model release form that outlines rights and permissions.
- • Detailed contract - includes terms like usage rights, studio fees, and commercial licensing.
I strongly recommend at least a simple signed release form, even if you’re just doing a test shoot with a friend.
What to agree on in advance for TFP shoots
Before the shoot, always clarify the following:
- • Concept of the shoot - so everyone shares the same vision.
- • Who’s doing what - makeup, wardrobe, location, props, etc.
- • Turnaround time - when the model will receive the edited photos.
- • Number of final images - how many edited photos will be delivered, and in what format.
- • Usage rights - can you post on social media, submit to magazines, use in exhibitions, etc.
Pros of TFP shoots
- • Free - no one pays anyone.
- • Great for portfolios - fast way to build a strong body of work.
- • Creative freedom - experiment with lighting, poses, and concepts.
- • Networking - meet models, makeup artists, and creatives for future work.
Cons of TFP shoots
- • Last-minute cancellations - some models may not take it seriously.
- • Inconsistent results - the outcome may not always be portfolio-worthy.
- • Copyright issues - without a release, you legally can’t use the photos.
- • Out-of-pocket costs - often, the photographer covers the studio and makeup.
TFP vs Paid Shoots
When a model gets paid, she treats the shoot like a job - no cancellations, no surprises, and a professional attitude. You also get a signed release and full permission to use the photos. With commercial shoots, it’s the opposite - the client pays you. These sessions usually have specific briefs and less creative freedom, but more stability and, of course, payment.
Conclusion
TFP is an amazing tool for learning, growing, and expressing your creativity - if handled professionally. Always discuss details clearly, set expectations, and never skip the model release form. And when the time comes - don’t be afraid to work with paid professionals. The quality, reliability, and peace of mind are worth every penny.
