“What is a TFCD Shoot?”
Models that are new to the business often ask me what TFCD means. TFCD is an acronym for “Time for CD”. Basically it means an even trade. My time, a free photoshoot for you worth $200/hr or more, plus all of the edited images on CD in exchange for your modeling. TFCD sessions are beneficial to myself, the photographer, as well as to the model. I take the photographs, post-process and mail out to you a DVD with your final edited jpegs (high resolution copies that are un-watermarked) so you can make prints or post them in your portfolios online. Often I send the model some of the best shots from the shoot (low res) so they can immediate start posting them on their blog, Facebook, Myspace, or other social networking profiles.
The model signs a model release for me to use the photos for commercial purposes (the release tells the agency that you give us permission to use your photographs). If I’m fortunate I might make a few bucks off the images we produce in the coming months. Sometimes the images sell on the sites I upload them to, other times they don’t. It all depends on the model, the theme, the situation, etc. If in fact I do find any of the images of any of my models in use, I immediately forward the finds along to them. What a great way to get modeling practice, exposure in the industry and to add to your tear sheets! I’m a very busy guy, but I like to do at least few new location shoots per month, if I can. My schedule is pretty flexible. Contact me for rates. I am shooting TFCD selectively at the moment; as long as the majority of the shoot is a stock photo concept or commercial lifestyle theme that I can market as stock imagery.
Portraiture is only about 25% of what I produce, as graphics, vector art and other miscellaneous images make up the rest of my portfolio. I don’t have a need for professionals, although I have worked with many. Stock photography works great with “real life” non-models, as well. I have had great success even using family and friends to model for me, so don’t think you need to be a runway model to qualify. If you live in the New England area of the US (preferably from New York, Connecticut, Massachussets, & Rhode Island) and are just starting out or looking to build your portfolio with some stock themes; by all means, contact me. I will review your current head shots and let you know if I can be of assistance! I also can offer huge discounts to my shooting rates when model releases are signed – this includes engagement sessions, senior portraits, family portraits, and more.
Most importantly, a photoshoot should be fun! I will help you make the most of your time by getting you the most variety of angles, lighting, and themes that we can during the session. For the most recent samples of our work click here.
