Just to knock out some of the more common questions I get regarding testing, TF* shoots, and how I operate:

TESTING/TF*

What are your TF*/testing terms?
Unless negotiated and agreed to beforehand, the following should be assumed to be my TF* terms:

I shoot TFI (time for [digital] images) and TFP (time for prints). I do not provide all high-resolution images on a CD. Proof CDs are available for a nominal fee.

For TFI shoots, two edited high-resolution JPG files per look will be provided to the model. Up to five total additional images will be provided in a Web-ready JPG format. Web-ready images from a TFI shoot will be watermarked. For a TFP shoot, one edited 9 x 12 print will be provided to the model.

Assume that a test/TF* shoot will take approximately two hours (excludes makeup application and review).

A makeup artist is available but their fee is not included in a test/TF* shoot unless specifically indicated in the casting call or shoot request.

Who is a good candidate for testing/shooting TFI?
I shoot fashion, commercial, and glamour on a TFI basis as explained above:

A candidate for a SunArcher TFI shoot will bring a look that is unique and different than what I already depict. They may also find appealing our projects and tests that we offer from time to time. These projects are usually themed around a song, movie, video game, or other item in popular culture. Tests generally revolve around lighting, time periods (i.e. night shooting), or evaluation of a model for a future project.

Fashion candidates must be at least 5'9" tall for ladies and 6' tall for men. Heights given are natural and without the assistance of footwear. Models must bring a variety of clothing, shoes, and accessories. Expect to shoot at least two looks but bring more than two. If a casting call or shoot request asks for a fashion-spec model for a glamour project, models are subject to the candidate items regarding glamour models below as well.

Commercial candidates must be at least 5'7" tall for ladies and 5'9" tall for men. Models must bring at least two complete wardrobe looks and accessories if requested by the casting call or shoot request.

Glamour candidates have no height requirements. Preference is given to ladies who are curvy in composition and men who are tone to buff in composition. Candidates must be comfortable with being at least topless or bare-bottomed even if the finished product does not depict full nudity. In most cases, an MUA is provided for these shoots.


Do you barter?
Sometimes. I will exchange my time for photographic equipment, event tickets, Airwolf memorabilia, tattoos, hotel stays, and motorcycle parts. Sound weird? I've had a model pay my rate with a Best Buy Reward Zone card. Netted some needed photographic gear.

I like your portfolio. Will you pay me to shoot with you?
Probably not. Those models whom I am willing to pay for their services already know who they are. I generally ignore/delete unsolicited requests from models requesting payment to shoot with them.

I'm located nowhere near you. Why did you send me a friend request?
One never knows when you'll be traveling and pass through or near Washington. If you're in the area, I may want to shoot with you or you may want to shoot with me.

I've never had to pay a photographer. Why should I pay you?
People pay me for three general reasons. First, I can provide them with images of a quality equal to or better than what they already have. Second, they want me to shoot a specific theme for them, or they may like a specific theme of mine and want it in their port/book. Finally, they want to use the images I produce for a commercial purpose. It's as simple as that. If this does not mesh with you, I'm not the right photographer for you. I'm not a hobbyist. Please do not approach me as if I am.

You're located near a military installation. Are you military?
Yes. Served six years in the United States Air Force.

Do you travel?
I travel on occasion. Travel to areas outside of the Washington, DC area is negotiable. At an absolute minimum, my half-day rate, lodging accommodations, and transport expenses (either gasoline or an airline ticket) will be charged. Other fees may be incurred; inquire for more. You are free to split travel expenses with other models in your area who also wish to utilize my services.

Where is Waldorf, Maryland?
Waldorf, Maryland is located approximate 25 miles south of downtown Washington, DC, on Maryland Route 5.

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