Getting Something for Nothing
(or Trading Time for Prints)

As a general rule, I VERY RARELY trade time for prints. There are a few instances when it is applicable; and it is on a case-by-case basis.

If you are interested in reading my (rather lengthy- sorry) guidelines, They are below: Or you can Go to my rate sheet

There are a LOT of things to weigh when speculating a test or TFP session.

I evaluate them on a case-to-case basis; with the criteria being:

•  Who approached who for the shoot
  
•  The Value of it to my portfolio
  
•  How will the images be used
  
•  The Experience of the model
  
•  If I want to shoot that particular person
  
•  The need for updates in my portfolio
  
•  My relationship with the person (good experiences/bad-how long have I  known them)
  
•  Is the model traveling
• Other misc. factors based on the individual situation

The cost of the shoot for the model is also based on what rights the model wants to the images, and what the value of the shoot is to my portfolio.

Example 1: The model is someone I can use for my book; and the images they want will enhance my portfolio: fees are based on rights:

• The model pick up all the material costs (stylist, film and developing):
  The model will be given a limited # of free prints, and additional prints are made at cost--Rights are granted for any approved self-promotion (portfolio, electronic, comps, print-ads, etc). No resale/No Paysites, etc.
  
  
• The model pays regular fees for a session. She has all rights to the images for self-promotion, and limited resale rights (outlined in the contract).

Example 2: The model wants images that are of no value to me; but I may be able to use the model in the future:

• The model wants to be responsible for the costs (film, dev., styling,etc). She gets limited rights to the images for self-promotion only.
  No resale whatsoever.
  
• The model pays a full-session fee. She has unlimited self-promotion rights and limited resale rights.

Example 3: The model is someone who doesn't fit in my book, and wants images of no use to me:

• Full-session fee, Model has Unlimited self-promotional rights, and limited resale rights.

Example 4: The Model wants images of no use to me, and wishes to use them for Resale or Web "content".

• Rates based on my commercial fees, or possibly a revenue split. Again, a case-by-case basis.

This is just scratching the surface... That's why It is determined on a case-by-case basis.

An editorial note:

One of the things that has become confused over time is the Idea of "testing".

People are using that phrase as a catch-all; and it has lost alot of meaning.

There is a big difference between testing w/ an experienced photograher, and getting photos for cheap or nothing from an inexperienced one.

There are alot of semi-pros and amateurs out there who are willing to shoot for cheap, or next to nothing; there is NOTHING wrong with that... We were all beginners at one point. And they can add an occasional image to your book;
But it is equally important to remember that often you get what you pay for.

It is great to get anything for free, but remember; if you aren't satisfied, there are no refunds on "free".

And if at the end of 6 months, you have a portfolio that cost you nothing; well, you saved some money, But you may have a portfolio that looks like it cost nothing. and you spent 6-months of your life getting it.

You have to remeber one of the most important rules about portfolios: (and this applies to photographers as well):
Your book is only as good as the weakest image in it...

Cheers,

Bob.