First of all, don't spend any money - try to find a photographer offering TFP.

Click on the "tfp shoot" button on the right for more information. This is a way of getting some practice in front of the camera in a studio environment and some free photographs in return for your time.

If you are under 18, you will need to take a parent/guardian or parent approved adult chaperone along with you to the shoot. All reputable photographers will make a point of mentioning this.

When replying to a photographer you should always state clearly at the outset, what type photographs you need e.g. fashion, catalogue, casual, magazine, sport, etc.

Before the shoot, you will probably be asked to sign a Release form. This usually only states that the copyright to the photographs is that of the photographer. This is only a confirmation, as the copyright belongs to the photographer anyway. You should read this carefully, just in case there is anything other than this written into it. You should also have site of it before arriving at the shoot, as it is unlikely the photographer will wish to continue without the signed Release form. If you are under 18 this will need to be countersigned by your parent or guardian before arrival at the shoot.

Care with personal appearance is important. Make sure any body and facial hair has been removed where necessary - this is most important as digital removal can sometimes spoil the skin texture. Even the finest hairs will show on an A4 print, particularly with dark haired people.

Also take particular care with skin blemishes - make sure to bring with you, your particular blemish remover, although these blemishes can be removed digitally from the photograph (not easily done using the traditional techniques in black and white photography).

Any adornments where body piercing has been done, may be left in place, or removed if desired, as the piercings can be digitally "healed" during editing.

Makeup should be a little more than usual and well done, although be careful to avoid any that tends towards red, as a rosy appearance is to be avoided. Shininess due to perspiration is also to be avoided and there should be items in your make up bag you can use periodically to attend to this. Hair should be clean and styled, nails clean and manicured - paint should be fresh and not chipped, including toe nails. Lip gloss always looks well.

Clothing should be in good condition, as "the camera" will soon find any faults - the odd pulled thread, stains, creases, etc. Shoes are important too. Make sure they compliment the clothing and type of photographs you are looking for.

A few guidelines if you are thinking of modelling. Agencies are pretty choosy with regard to height and weight, particularly when it comes to fashion and catwalk modelling. Generally you should be 5'-8" tall (some agencies say minimum 5'-9"), weigh 7 1/2 - 9 stone, slim - 34-23-35 and wear an 8-10 dress. Men should be 6'-0" ish, about 12 stone with a 40" chest. Remember, these are only guidelines and refer to fashion and catwalk. There are other modelling opportunities that don't require these strict criteria.