TFCD means Time for CD
TFP means Time for Print

Time for CD/Print is an agreement between a photographer and model where the exchange of services doesn’t include any exchange of cash . The photographer will take photos of the model (time) and in exchange he/she will supply the model with images either in CD form or as prints. There is absolutely and I mean absoluely no exchange of cash, no reinbursements for travel, food, film, printing, cds or any other expenses that may arise for this shoot.

Typically TFCD shoots are an excellent way for both the photographer and the model to build, enhance or update their existing portfolios. It is used by photographers who are at the beginner or amateur levels or by experience professionals who are seeking to test, update and experiment with models.

A TFCD shoot can be as elborate as the episodes on America’s Next Top Model with makeup artists (MUAs), stylists and the whole works at your hands and feet  or it could be just the model and the photographer in a simple setting such as his studio or in the outdoors.

For models TFCD is a great way to experiment with new looks without spending a fortune on photographers. Its’s a great way to test different looks and style and ultimately increase your experience levels.

What should you the MODEL expect from your photographer?

• A fair agreement i.e. you receive images ( high resolution images) or prints for your time. Most photographers will provide a few professionally retouched images of your choice.
• Usage of the images for self-promotion. By law, photographers are granted all copyrights to images. As a result, the photographer will have the power over the usage of the images. Most agreements will explictly say you have the right to use the image for self-promotion but not commerical use.
• Professionalism - the photographer should be easy to reach, communicative and also be specific as to when you will receive your end of the bargain i.e. your images. Many models complain that photographers take their time ( lasting up to weeks) before they ever get their images.
• A clear concept and idea as to what it is expected from you the model.
•  Knowledge - It is expected that the photographer knows how to use his/her camera, understand photographic technique (i.e. lighting, composition etc) and has proper and professional equipment that wil render high quality results.

What does the PHOTOGRAPHER expects from you?

• Professionalism - Be on time, be open to ideas, easy to reach and above all treat the shoot as if you were being paid to do so. It is beneficial to both you and the photographer. Anything but 100% is a waste of time.
• Knowledge - Many photographers will already have a preconceived idea of  what they want to achieve. This information should be communicated to you ahead of time. Regardless of your experience level, it is the model’s responsibility to bring the photographer’s vision to life. So if you are a beginner, be sure to practice your poses and know what works well for you. Although it should be noted that photographers will provide assistance on the shoots to bring out your best feature, it would be more impressive for you to do this part on your own. Often beginner models show up to shoots with the impression that they need to look pretty. This results in the same look for 100 frames, which is a collosal waste of time for both parties involve. Chances are you wouldn’t be called back for paid work. So always do your homework and give variety in looks and angles and ask questions.
• Positive Attitude- A smile goes a long way and put both parties at ease. Confidence is a must and listening becomes important when trying to achieve your best results.
• Sign a Model Release/licensing agreement - These are not interchangeable although some like to think it is. The model release gives the photographer permission to take photos of the model and the licensing agreements grants the model the right to use the image for self promotion or otherwise as expressed by the photographer. I urge you to read these agreements but don’t expect to own any rights to the images but you should be aware of everything that is stated before you sign.
• Identification - If your photographer is on par, he/she will request identification before or after the shoot. Don’t worry this is not to steal your identity, this is for protection for the photographer. All professional establishments and notable photographers will put this into practice. If they don’t, I would question their intentions.