Lightspeedfoto
TPF Noob!
- Joined
- Sep 8, 2009
- Messages
- 46
- Reaction score
- 0
- Location
- Orlando, FL
- Can others edit my Photos
- Photos OK to edit
I've read a lot on here and other forums and it seems that a majority of people seem to feel 2 things that are almost contradictory. First is that you should not charge high pricing unless your photos are spectacular. Second is that people who charge lower than area averages are sending a message that their work or service is sub-par and if customers don't see a high price, they may not expect a high quality job.
With that being said, how should a photographer like myself set pricing? I've been second shooter on a few weddings for one of Orlando's top wedding photographers, and i've even done several events of my own - one engagement party (just like a wedding reception), and one charity ball. Prior to that, I enjoy taking photos of babies, families, etc but have not charged for my work.
I'm fortunate enough that I'm able to do this as a hobby because I love it and since I have a "normal" full time job, it takes a lot of pressure off.
Recently, I've been asked (through referrals) to shoot a bat mitzfah which will be comprised of shooting formals at the temple with the standard family lineup, and then the following evening shooting the party which will take place in a banquet hall.
my equipment is as follows: 5dmkII, 50 1.2L, 70-200 2.8L IS, 24-105L, 20mm 2.8, couple of speedlights, 2 alien bees 1600's, pocket wizards etc, 600x cf cards, imac, etc.
I think i'm good on equipment. But the dilemma remains on how much I should charge? Most of the work i've done has been gratis and mainly for friends/family, friends of friends etc. I'd love to hear some ideas? I do want to make this into a business, but I enjoy it so much anyway, I'll probably want to at least cover my costs and try to pay for some new gear.
With that being said, how should a photographer like myself set pricing? I've been second shooter on a few weddings for one of Orlando's top wedding photographers, and i've even done several events of my own - one engagement party (just like a wedding reception), and one charity ball. Prior to that, I enjoy taking photos of babies, families, etc but have not charged for my work.
I'm fortunate enough that I'm able to do this as a hobby because I love it and since I have a "normal" full time job, it takes a lot of pressure off.
Recently, I've been asked (through referrals) to shoot a bat mitzfah which will be comprised of shooting formals at the temple with the standard family lineup, and then the following evening shooting the party which will take place in a banquet hall.
my equipment is as follows: 5dmkII, 50 1.2L, 70-200 2.8L IS, 24-105L, 20mm 2.8, couple of speedlights, 2 alien bees 1600's, pocket wizards etc, 600x cf cards, imac, etc.
I think i'm good on equipment. But the dilemma remains on how much I should charge? Most of the work i've done has been gratis and mainly for friends/family, friends of friends etc. I'd love to hear some ideas? I do want to make this into a business, but I enjoy it so much anyway, I'll probably want to at least cover my costs and try to pay for some new gear.