Other than the 1 free shoot I give away each month, I no longer provide TFP, but I do occasionally provide testing opportunities or discounts to models that I feel have the potential to benefit my portfolio or that I feel would provide a unique or unusual opportunity or an interesting experience. And every shoot, regardless of whether it is for testing or not, requires a $25 scheduling fee (or a non-refundable deposit) to be arranged. (Why? Because by paying the scheduling fee, you are agreeing to my terms of service which among other things, protects me against last minute cancellations and "no shows".)

Testing in terms of what a model gets is very similar to "TFP". However, where TFP may favor the model in fulfilling specific requests, "testing" is geared towards allowing the photographer to experiment with different looks, ideas, techniques, and equipment. Often this results in very unique and eye-catching imagery.

All shoots, regardless of whether they are "testing" or not, require a minimum scheduling fee of at least $25 (some require a higher scheduling fee depending on the circumstances).

Please note that I am very frequently congratulated on the quality of my work and in the same correspondence, requested to provide my services for free (TFP/CD).

If you shop around a bit and compare prices, I believe you will find that my services are surprisingly low. I keep my rates low and on display on my web site on purpose so that more people can afford to have the opportunity to work with a professional photographer.

It would be impossible and impractical for me to find the time to fill all of the TFP requests I get.

Consider this... when was the last time you walked into a beauty salon and asked for their services for free? Probably never, right? A good photo is worth its weight in gold and lasts forever. Your hairstyling and nails that you may pay for do not. Please take this into consideration before requesting a free shoot.

Although I only offer limited test opportunities, I do offer a broader range of "TFP alternatives" that may interest you. These opportunities include shooting portfolios at discounted rates in exchange for stock photo & commercial purposes. The rate is negotiable. If you have questions, just ask.

Another way to possibly get some eyecatching shots at a reduced rate would be to get involved with one of the ongoing "Casting Call Projects" I provide.

Please understand that I treat all test shoots with the same attention to detail as I do my paid professional shoots. The degree of service that you get is virtually identical. What this means is that you will receive what many clients typically pay hundreds of dollars for.