In the dynamic world of modelling, TFCD (Time for CD) photo sessions are a valuable resource for both aspiring models and photographers. These sessions offer a mutually beneficial arrangement where talent and creativity meet. Here, we delve into what TFCD sessions entail, their benefits, and tips for a successful collaboration.
What is a TFCD Photo Session?
TFCD stands for “Time for CD” or, in more modern terms, “Time for Digital Images.” It’s a form of barter agreement between a model and a photographer. Instead of monetary exchange, the model offers their time and posing skills, while the photographer provides their expertise and equipment. The end product is a collection of professional photos, typically delivered digitally, which both parties are free to use.
Benefits of TFCD Sessions
- Portfolio Development: For models starting out, TFCD sessions are a cost-effective way to build a diverse portfolio. It allows them to showcase their versatility across various themes and styles.
- Networking: These sessions are excellent for networking with photographers and other models. They can lead to more opportunities and industry contacts.
- Skill Enhancement: Both models and photographers can experiment and refine their skills without the pressure of a paid assignment.
- Creative Freedom: TFCD shoots often allow for more creative expression, as they’re not bound by client specifications.
How to Make the Most of a TFCD Session
- Clear Communication: Ensure you have a clear understanding with the photographer about the expectations, themes, and style of the shoot.
- Research: Look at the photographer’s portfolio to understand their style. Prepare yourself accordingly to match their aesthetics.
- Professionalism: Treat the session with the same professionalism as a paid shoot. Be punctual, prepared, and collaborative.
- Agreement: It’s wise to have a simple written agreement outlining the terms of the TFCD, including usage rights of the photos.
- Safety: Especially for new models, consider bringing a chaperone and ensure the shoot location is safe and public.
Setting Expectations
- Timeline: Establish a timeline with the photographer with regards to the delivery or “turnaround time” of the results of your shoot.
- Quantity: It’s good to understand how many photos are expected to be made available. In many cases, the photographer will only wish to share images that they feel meet their standard. This is typically much less than what was actually taken during the session.
- Post-Production Rights: Most photographers have a specific style of editing. After all, it’s their creative process and in most circumstances, additional editing or “filters” applied to released images to the model, should be approved by the photographer before being posted anywhere.
- Logos and Watermarks: The whole idea of TFCD is to provide a form of promotion of each party involved. It’s important to establish what this looks like. If the photographer plans to include a logo, often referred to as “watermark”, on their images, then it’s important to not crop this out or cut it off. In situations where this is not possible, such as on Instagram where the images are a fixed ratio, then you should work with the photographer to identify a suitable workaround.
- Attribution: Of course, it’s important for each party to be attributed fairly. This may be in the form of tagging, captions or “checking in” at a certain location. It’s good to be sure what is expected and try your best to meet those expectations.
TFCD photo sessions are an excellent stepping stone in the modelling industry. They offer a platform for skill enhancement, portfolio building, and networking, all without financial investment. By approaching these sessions with professionalism and clear communication, both models and photographers can reap significant benefits.