Jo Haywood proved a zero-budget photographic collection is achievable, using only her own experience and the help of other creatives. Haywood assembled a team of eight models, a photographer, a stylist, and a makeup artist for her collection, Apricity. She found collaborators through social media, specifically Facebook groups for local models and photographers. She also tagged industry accounts like @assisting_work to expand her reach. Her approach was transparent, clearly stating it was a TFP (time-for-prints) collaboration. This meant everyone contributed their time and skills in exchange for the final images for their own portfolios.
Haywood's salon boss, Jamie Stevens, allowed her to use the salon for the shoot weekend. She also prepped models' hair in evenings after client appointments. Natural light from the salon courtyard was used, with improvised solutions like bin bags to control light. Clothing was sourced through a sale-and-return tactic, and two aspiring stylists contributed their skills, one bringing jewellery. Makeup artists were given a moodboard and creative freedom. Haywood encouraged the team to capture content for their own social media, emphasizing shared success.
The Apricity collection, created with assistant Sofia Esmailzadah and guided by mentor Francesca Harrison, resulted in over 16 images. This project reignited Haywood's creativity, boosted her confidence for industry competitions, and generated buzz among her clients. It provided credibility, exposure, and professional connections, demonstrating the power of resourcefulness and collaboration over financial investment.
