What Is A Collab Shoot? TFP Meaning & Benefits (Updated 2026)

Before we go any further, it is important to clarify the terms. Very often the word "collaboration" is used too loosely, and TFP is misunderstood even more.

What does collaboration and TFP actually mean?

Collaboration in photography means that several people work together on a project because it is interesting, useful, or creatively important for all participants. It is not about doing someone a favor. It is about combining resources, skills, time, and ideas to create something that would be difficult or expensive to do alone.

TFP stands for Time for Prints. In simple words, it means that no money is exchanged between the photographer and the model. Instead, both sides invest their time, experience, and effort, and receive professional images as the result of this work.

TFP is not a synonym for "free shooting". It only works when both sides understand the value of what they are giving and what they are getting in return.

Reject vs Accept?

TFP works best when it is seen as a creative collaboration, not as unpaid work. The moment you approach it as "I'm working for free", you automatically put yourself into a passive role, just following instructions. That is exactly what TFP is not about.

A strong TFP collaboration with a professional photographer gives you something that paid shoots often don't. The chance to create unique images where you have a real voice. You can influence the concept, the mood, the styling, the direction of the shoot. You are not just executing a task, you are shaping the result.

If the photographer is experienced and has a strong visual style, a TFP collaboration can easily result in images that significantly upgrade your portfolio. These are the kinds of photos that stand out, because they were created without rigid commercial limits.

This is especially relevant in a city like Lisbon. Light, locations, and atmosphere allow for a wide range of visual ideas, and TFP gives the freedom to explore them properly, without rushing or simplifying everything to fit a paid brief.

If your goal as a model is only a fixed rate and clear instructions, a paid shoot is the right format. But if you want creative control, stronger images, and real involvement in the process, TFP is exactly where that happens.

Why a model might be interested in TFP

TFP is not suitable for everyone. If a model works only in a paid format, that is completely normal. But TFP exists for a different reason and gives a different type of value, especially in a creative city like Lisbon.

• You get professional photos for your portfolio. In a commercial format, this is a paid service. In TFP, it is an exchange.
• You can work on concepts that are rarely offered in paid shoots. More freedom with style, mood, and locations around Lisbon.
• The photos are curated and selected by the photographer. This is not a mass shoot where everything is delivered.
• The images are used in my portfolio and publications, with proper credit. This gives visibility, not just files on a hard drive.
• TFP often becomes the start of a longer collaboration or paid work. Not a promise, but a pattern I've seen many times.
• TFP allows you to work as an equal creative partner. You are involved in decisions and can influence how and what is being created, rather than simply performing a predefined role.

If these points make sense to you, then TFP can be a good format. If not, it is better to discuss paid shooting from the beginning and avoid misunderstandings.

If you are looking for a classic paid format instead, you can always check my portrait photo sessions in Lisbon. This is a different type of work with a different structure.

Block for photographers

Some of my strongest photo sets were created in pure collaboration. Projects where no one was demanding a specific result from me, no one was trying to control every step, and there was no pressure to "deliver what was ordered".

In these projects, the goal was not to satisfy a client or meet someone's expectations. The goal was to reach the best possible visual result. That difference changes everything.

When I work in this format, I can focus fully on the image, the mood, and the story, instead of thinking about approval. This freedom is exactly what allows stronger, more honest, and more personal work to appear.

…my strongest photo sets were created in pure collaboration

That is why I value TFP collaboration. Not as free work, but as a space where real creative results are possible, for both the photographer and the model.

So, are you interested in collaboration?

– Are you interested in TFP collaboration?
– Yes, of course.
The only question is: what do you bring into this collaboration?

This does not mean something extraordinary or expensive. Sometimes it is a strong idea. Sometimes it is access to an interesting location in Lisbon. Sometimes it is a very specific look or personality that fits a concept I already have in mind.

There are also situations when the idea comes from my side. I see a model and understand exactly what I want to shoot. In that case, I will explain the concept and expectations clearly before we agree on anything.

Creative ideas often come not only from photographers. Makeup artists, stylists, and hairdressers are very often the source of strong concepts. They gather a team, find a model, and then look for a photographer to bring everything together. Notice that the starting point is always an idea, not a request for free photos.

If you are a makeup artist, stylist, hairdresser, or a professional model based in Lisbon and you have something in mind, feel free to contact me. Show references, describe your thoughts, explain why this project matters to you.

If someone says no, do not take it personally. It usually means that the idea does not fit their direction or timing. There are many photographers in Lisbon, and the right match is mostly about vision.

Refinement of collaboration conditions

The points below are based on common TFP practice. I adapted them slightly and added my own comments so everything is clear in advance.

• The model is responsible for wardrobe and makeup. Unless discussed otherwise. Sometimes clothes or styling are provided, but this is always agreed in advance.
• The photographer is responsible for the location or studio and equipment. Related costs are discussed beforehand. Sometimes shared, sometimes covered by one side.
• The photographer provides the final images. I deliver photos only in digital form.
• Each participant is responsible for their own transport. If I have space in my car in Lisbon, it can be discussed. Better to clarify in advance.
• The photographer may ask for a model release. Preferably signed on paper. This protects both sides.
• The model can use the photos for personal portfolio and self-promotion.
• The photographer selects, edits, and delivers the final images. Usually around 10 photos. Sometimes more, if the material allows it.
• The level of retouching is decided by the photographer. I do not deliver raw files. Minimum is color correction. Full retouching depends on the selected images.
• Delivery time varies. Usually within a reasonable timeframe, but commercial work always has priority.
• Image size and resolution should be discussed in advance. I normally provide both web and full-size versions.
• Images published online must include a watermark or credit. This is mandatory unless discussed beforehand.
• Images cannot be sold or submitted to magazines or contests without permission.
• If the model is under 18, parental presence and release are required.
• The photographer may limit the presence of guests during the shoot. Usually there are no spectators. Assistants and artists are part of the process, not the audience.

For other participants (stylists, makeup artists, etc.)

If nothing is discussed in advance, all participants receive the same images as the model. If you need specific shots that show your work clearly, close-ups of makeup, hairstyle, or full outfit, please say it before the shoot.

I am completely fine with taking such photos and editing them within reasonable limits. But I cannot guess your needs if you do not tell me about them.

Useful articles:

• Why it is important to do professional makeup for a photo shoot
• 12 makeup tips for photo shoots in the heat

If you've read this far

If you reached this point, you are probably interested in collaboration. That's a good sign.

If you would like me to photograph you in Lisbon, send me a message. Show your photos so I can understand your look. Tell me a bit about yourself and, most importantly, describe your ideas or references.

I usually do not invent concepts for people I don't know yet. After the first shoots, it becomes easier to build something together. For now, I prefer to start from your thoughts and see where they lead.

If you are looking for a clear, paid format instead, you can always start here: portrait photo sessions in Lisbon.