TFCD is the English acronym (Time for CD), which means that the model and the photographer collaborate and both work for free for a joint project. The model gives the photographer time to take the pictures, and in return the photographer gives the pictures to the model on CD (or other digital media). This practice is usually popular among beginning or emerging artists who want to gain experience and build a portfolio.
TFCD photography does not have a specific history, rather it developed over time in parallel with the expansion of digital photo technology and the emergence of social media. The advent of digital technology has significantly reduced the cost of taking photos and allowed amateur photographers as well as budding models to more easily access imaging and share their finished work.
The TFCD model-photographer collaboration created a kind of “win-win” situation, where both parties could benefit from the joint work. The model had free access to professional images to help her portfolio, while the photographer could practice and build her creative portfolio for free.
However, it is important to note that the business side of photography is constantly changing, and the TFCD practice has received some criticism for requiring participants to work for free. Since then, many professional photographers and models prefer to work for money, given the value and time-consuming nature of their work.
