For Models
Do models get paid or is it TFP (trade for portfolio)?
At Water Bear Photography, we offer both paid modeling opportunities and curated TFP, which stands for Trade For Portfolio, sessions depending on the specific project and your level of experience. For paid commercial and editorial work, we seek experienced underwater models who can consistently deliver professional results with minimal direction, and these assignments are compensated at competitive industry rates. For newer models or those looking to build an underwater-specific portfolio, we regularly host curated TFP and portfolio-build sessions during our creative days, test shoots, and underwater photography workshops.
These sessions provide you with high-quality, professionally retouched images for your portfolio in exchange for your time and modeling skills. If you are interested in working with us, we encourage you to reach out with your current portfolio or a brief introduction, and we will let you know which current opportunities align best with your experience level and career goals. Paid bookings often come with usage agreements that specify how the imagery can be used commercially, and we always provide a written model release outlining rights and compensation clearly.
TFP collaborations include a signed agreement as well, so both parties understand what images will be delivered and how each side may use them. Models who consistently deliver strong work during TFP sessions are typically the first we call when paid projects come up. We also actively recommend talented underwater models to other professional photographers in our network, which can lead to additional bookings beyond our studio.