What Is a TFP Photoshoot and Why I’m Selective About Them. Insights from a Tampa Branding Photographer
- Nina Bashaw
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
What Is a TFP Photoshoot and Why
I’m Selective About Them.
Insight from a Tampa Branding Photographer
Understanding the Purpose of a TFP Brand Shoot
TFP stands for "trade for photos" or "time for print," and it's a type of collaboration where creatives (most commonly models and photographers) come together to exchange services rather than money. For example, a model may receive professional images from a branding or senior portrait photographer in exchange for their time.
As someone who has built a business as a Tampa senior portrait photographer and branding photographer, I understand the value of collaboration. These shoots can be amazing when everyone shows up with a professional mindset and mutual respect. That said, I’ve also learned to be very intentional and selective about when I take on TFP shoots.
When I Say Yes to TFP Branding Shoots
During my slower seasons - One of the key times I’m open to TFP projects is when things slow down a bit. Typically, that’s during Florida’s hotter months or between booking seasons. It gives me room to be creative without taking away time from paying clients.
Photographing a location or venue I haven’t worked at before - As a Tampa area lifestyle branding photographer, I love adding fresh content to my portfolio. If the TFP shoot takes place at a unique venue or location I haven’t had a chance to photograph yet, I’m usually interested. It gives me the opportunity to grow and showcase new work and connect with new people.
Working with respected creatives or connected local professionals - If I’m being approached by a wedding planner, stylist, or small business owner who is established in the community, I’m definitely more inclined to collaborate. I enjoy working with other professionals who take pride in what they do and value creative partnerships.
Collaborating with authentic influencers = The keyword here is authentic. I’m not talking about someone with 40,000 followers who never engages or creates local content to Tampa or Wesley Chapel. I’m talking about real, local influencers who have a genuine following and are excited to feature our work together in multiple posts or platforms. I love partnering with creatives who see the long term value in good photography, especially when they live and or work in the Tampa area.
Photographing cultural diversity = As a Tampa senior photographer and someone who values connection, I truly enjoy photographing cultures that are different from mine. These sessions are more than just content, they're meaningful, and I consider it a privilege to be trusted with that kind of storytelling.
When I Say No to TFP Requests
When I’m in my busiest seasons - During peak times, like senior season or wedding season, I am fully focused on serving my paying clients. As a professional Wesley Chapel headshot photographer and Tampa branding photographer, my schedule fills up quickly with contracted work. I have to protect that time.
When the trade is not equal - If someone reaches out wanting a free shoot and offers “exposure” in return, that’s not a fair trade. I’ve built my business through hard work, excellent service, and authentic client relationships—not through empty promises of Instagram tags.
When I’ve had poor past experiences - Unfortunately, not every TFP session goes well. I’ve had people no-show, bring children to a shoot, show up under the influence, or arrive totally unprepared. Sometimes, the mood board that was sent didn’t even remotely match what they brought to the shoot. These situations waste time and energy, and I’ve learned to be very cautious.
When there’s no benefit to my branding or senior portrait portfolio - I’m very clear about the type of work I want to attract, and every shoot should reflect that. If it doesn’t align with my brand or serve a specific purpose for my portfolio, it’s not a good fit. Whether you’re a Lutz senior photographer, a Tampa brand photographer, or anywhere in between—your time and creative energy should be respected.
What I Look for in a Successful TFP Collaboration
If you’re planning to reach out about a potential trade branding shoot, here’s what you can do to make it easier for me to say yes:
Be professional and communicative
Offer something of equal value
Come prepared with a clear vision and realistic expectations
Respect the time and effort that goes into every shoot
Be honest about your goals and how you plan to use the photos
When both sides show up with intention and respect, a TFP senior portrait or branding session can be inspiring and beneficial for everyone involved.
Let’s Keep It Honest and Professional
As a full-time senior portrait and branding photographer who works across Tampa, Wesley Chapel, and Sarasota, I love collaborating with passionate, creative people. But I also know the value of my time and the work I’ve put into building my brand. I’m all for connection, growth, and making something beautiful. Just make sure it’s a partnership—one that brings value to us both.
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Nina Bashaw is a Tampa headshot and senior portrait photographer based in Wesley Chapel, Florida. She specializes in natural light branding sessions, senior portraits, and food and lifestyle photography for businesses across Tampa Bay. Although she is based out of Florida, she travels the globe for weddings and portrait sessions!
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