It’s been a long time since I’ve had a TFP photo shoot. A long time ago I made a decision to pay all my models. It was the right decision for me. However, TFP is still right for some situations, even amongst experienced and skilled models and photographers.

TFP (once Time for Prints, before digital) is when a model and photographer do a shoot for free. No modeling fees. No photography fees. Both get images for their use. Details will vary, but that’s the gist of it. It’s also sometimes known as TFCD (time for CD) or TFDVD or TF*, etc. But “TFP” is the more widely used term.

This practice has been both revered and reviled. Truth is, it has it’s place for many models and photographers, including beginners and veterans alike.

I’ve heard some say “never do TFP” as blanket advice. When some says “never” it reminds me of the time I saw a paramedic running to someones aid with a pair of scissors in hand; never run with scissors, I thought to myself; never say never.

I’ve done maybe two TFP shoots in the last five years. But every once in a while someone comes along with an interesting idea that I want to do, only it doesn’t fit into what I’m hiring for. In that case, I do TFP.

If you’re interested in modeling nude, you may wonder how you get started. First you need to show a photographer what you look like. If you’re unable to meet in person you’ll need to send some photos. This is how I “meet” about half of my new models. The images you send don’t need to be nude, in clothed shots are perfectly fine.Here is how to build a modeling portfolio from a photographer’s perspective. There are really two main shots I like to see:

1. Close-up face, no makeup
2. Full length body (e.g. in a swim suit)

Neither of these need to be professional quality, as long as they are clear shots. I care about what you look like, not the skill of your previous photographer. Also make sure the photos are large enough to see detail; tiny photos don’t cut it. Read more

If you want to publish my images (nude or non-nude) of models, you have to pay a licensing fee. The good news is that the fee is just a few dollars per image, and the process is easy. I sell my images through microstock sites. These sites are often owned by large companies (e.g. Getty Images) who carefully select only the best photos for their collection. I have hundreds of photos of beautiful models available. They include nudes, swimwear, lingerie, business attire, and shots of models doing things like talking on the phone; but nothing explicit.

Read more