Creative work is never easy. As ideas evolve into projects, theres always more to consider. Who’s going to participate? Where will it take place? Etc, etc. No matter what you’re doing, the same questions tend to pop up. But what do you do if you simply just want to collaborate, create, and have everyone benefit in the end? Whether you’re struggling with building your portfolio or simply just want to connect with other creatives and try new new things, TFPs may be the answer you didn’t know you were looking for.
What is TFP?
TFP stands for any of the following: Time for Prints, Trade for Prints, Test for Prints. Essentially, its a pro bono collaborative creative arrangement usually put together between a photographer and a model.
What does it include?
During a TFP, the photographer will take a certain number of pictures agreed upon by by both them and the model. In the end, both creatives have access to the photos that are specifically meant for portfolio use.
How much does it cost?
TFP’s are free for everyone involved! The visual assets are the compensation for both the photographer and the model.
Who else is involved?
It could just be the photographer and the model, however a stylist, makeup artist, and hair stylist can be added also. It all depends on your vision! These types of shoots are great for any combination of creatives looking to collaborate and create portfolio pieces together.
Are there contracts involved?
Technically, a TFP is voluntary for everyone participating, however to make sure everyone respects the process and conditions, contracts or agreements are great things to have in place.
What are the benefits?
With no financial obligation, TFP’s are low pressure environments. They’re great for collaborating and trying new things. Everyone is just wanting to make great work!
Where do you find TFP participants?
Social media! In the golden age of networking, social media is a great way to find other people just as eager to create as you are. This is one of the primary reasons we built AVVAY Pro, to help creative pros find each other to collaborate, while also letting their work be made more discoverable by the people, brands and businesses using AVVAY every day.