Want to Collaborate?

How to get a TFP or Test shoot

Collaboration is the new term for unpaid testing or Time-for-Print, commonly known as TFP. There is no money exchanged—the model gets images in exchange for his/her time. This means photographers will be selective on who they choose to offer TFP shoots.

These shoots take considerable time for a photographer to shoot, edit, and deliver images to the model. There is also the opportunity cost in that the time could have been used for a paid client or their time off. But, sometimes a photographer wants to try something new or add a concept to their portfolio. So a TFP can be worth it for the model and photographer.

So how do I select the models for a test shoot?

My first option is going to be a model whom I’ve worked with before. These models are usually agency represented and have demonstrated the ability to pose. If I have to coach a model through poses, then the shoot isn’t worth my time, and that “model” should be a client.

My second option is to ask an agency for a list of new talent. I simply provide the call sheet, and the agency provides a model.I will have to develop a rapport and working relationship with the model. But, because they have some experience this happens quickly. These models also rarely cancel.

My third option is to do a model call on my website and social media. I will do this when I’m at a conceptual stage, and don’t have a specific date in mind yet. I also might be looking for new faces and undiscovered talent. Often, a model I have worked with before responds, and I’m back to my first choice.

Ugh, I’m not an agency model, but I want to collaborate!

Good news—you don’t have to be an agency model. I get these requests frequently and I have to make some choices. Here are some tips to stand out and get selected:

Have social media accounts, specifically Instagram public. Make sure you have images in your social media that show you have some knowledge of posing. High school graduation photos don’t count. Bonus points if you have done some photoshoots before, and have tagged the photographer.

Don’t use the C-word unless you are really going to collaborate. When you send a DM or email, have a concept and outfits in mind. If an aspiring model reaches out to me with a brilliant concept that will enhance my portfolio and has prepared a mood board, I’m likely to agree to a test shoot. It shows the model has taken time and given the shoot some thought—and is going to appreciate my limited time. This set’s you apart from the many messages I receive like, “I would love to work with you.”

If you are replying to a model call, put some effort into the response. Replies with “interested” or a ❤️ 🙋‍♀️ tells me that aspiring model is looking for a free photoshoot. This is confirmed when I look at their social media and see photoshoots with awkward posing, poor lighting, and ill-conceived concepts. I get dozens of these every model call, so set yourself apart. Competition is fierce, and this is usually when I go back to options one, two, or four.

Be willing to invest in the photoshoot. Offer to book locations and take care of those expenses. Offer to provide unique wardrobe or props. Last year a model who had a great look contact me. She wanted a studio shoot with snow, stuffed animals, and balloons. The problem was the concept was inconsistent with my portfolio, did not enhance my work, and she was unwilling to pay for studio fees and props. She found someone to shoot her Only Fans content for free—but it wasn’t me.

After one of my sailboat photoshoots, an independent model made me the offer, “Hello! If you ever want to do a boat shoot with a natural redhead let me know ☺️” These shoots are expensive and availability is limited. I was willing to shoot with her, but not give her one of my most premium shoots. So I asked her if she had a sailboat or even a pool with a floaty, but she did not and unfollowed me. She clearly did not respect my time and wanted a free photoshoot.

I understand rejection hurts and fear of rejection is a paralytic. I applaud anyone for reaching out. Just because me or another photographer isn’t interested now doesn't mean we will never be interested. Try again with a different concept at a different time. I fill my shoots quickly, and you might have just been too late.

Summary

You’re competing for slots with established talent. You might be the next Sydney Sweeney, but you haven’t demonstrated it yet. You will have to put in more effort up front to set yourself apart.  

Show the photographer you understand the time, expense, and effort involved in a test shoot and offer to help. Make yourself available. If the only time a photographer has is a weekday at 10:00am, you might need to get someone to cover your shift at the coffee shop. Like the prophet said, “If you had one shot or one opportunity; To seize everything you ever wanted in one moment; Would you capture it or just let it slip?” What if that photoshoot gets you discovered and signed with an agency launching your international modeling career? I’ve seen it happen more than once.

Don’t be afraid to reach out. Rejection and unanswered messages are common. You might not be selected this time, but that’s a moment in the past. Try and try again.