Prints-for-Time, also called Time-for-Prints (PFT, or TFP), is a co-operation for mutual benefit between a model and a photographer: The model puts in her/his time, resources and effort, and the photographer does the same. No money changes hands. Both, the model and the photographer cover their own expenses and benefit from each other's skills and talents.

As the name suggests, the model's fee consists of photographic prints and/or digital images.

Other terms you may come across are test, testing, test shoot - but this is not really the same, so check the details before agreeing to anything.

Prints-for-Time also means that nobody has commissioned the photographer to take the photographs. The photographer does what is termed personal work to further their portfolio.

Prints-for-Time is meant to be a low budget affair. Typically, the model will be required to do her (his) own hair and make-up, and supply her (his) own clothes.

Approach a prints for time shoot with professionalism. It is not just a chance to have some fun in front of the camera. Treat it as work, not fun. Of course, you are allowed to have fun at shoot, and I hope you do ...

Keep in mind that while you may be supplying some clothes and make-up for the shoot, the photographer is supplying many thousands of dollars of equipment, often is paying a great deal of money in studio rental fees, and in my case, more than 25 years of photographic experience.

Remember that you are a partner in the project. There has to be a fair balance of responsibilities. Don't expect the photographer to do all the work. You, the model, do not only have the right to prints, but also the responsibility to put all your efforts, imagination, creativity and heart into the shoot. The photographer, too, must get something out of a prints for time shoot.

(See also TFCD on the next page)