How much should I charge to photograph a wedding while I am a student/amatuer?

Answer 1

I have to agree with the guy who said nothing. If you've photographed a few weddings before and have a nice portfolio, I suppose you could charge a small fee.

But if you don't have a portfolio or haven't done very many weddings, don't charge anything. With the cost of supplies, you do end up losing money, but it's actually to your benefit as well because you can use this to practice and build a portfolio. I would start by doing weddings of friends, relatives, etc for free. Maybe advertise in a local paper or on craigslist. Some people can get really picky and might get really mad at you if they don't think the pictures you took were good enough (bride-zillas, I work in a florist, I know them...). But if you advertise as an amatuer that doesn't charge, they will probably know and understand that you don't have as much experience as a professional, and probably would be more patient.

It's hard to say without knowing if you do have experience or a portfolio, but I was going off of the case that you don't. If you do... the rates some others gave might be acceptable. Otherwise, charge nothing. you'll gain experience, plus they might even give you a tip if they really like your work.

Good luck!

Answer 2

How much are you worth??? The real answer may hurt... but it can jump start you to a great career. If it is a small wedding, why don't you offer to shoot it for your cost of Film, developing or printing of the pictures (if shooting digital). You need the experience and if you mess up, you wont feel obligated to pay them back. They aren't paying you a profit so they can't be upset if the pictures don't turn out like what a professionals would.

Be generous, be thoughtful and be gracious with your skills. The money will come and if you are any good, it will come quickly.

For real answers by a helpful professional, call me at 1-866-860-0039. Barry at Brides on a Budget Photo in Florida

Answer 3

Why dont you do it for a cost plus 40%? Then you dont have to worry about selling packages as the value goes up with what they buy. DONT just give them the images (because if they are cheap with the printing its a reflection on you and you cant control the quality). So if they spend $500 in printing/album you get $200 (500 X 1.4=$700). The advantage here is to ensure you are not burned on overpromising a product that might cost more. Make sure you limit the time to say 6 hours and make sure you ask the bride to list the important shots. Dont give the images away on a CD as there is no incentive for them to buy but consider giving it to them after a year (when they are done buying).

Answer 4

how long is the wedding?
. 1-2 hrs = 40$ an hour (40$,50$)
. 2-3 hrs = 50$ an hour (100$,150$)
. 3-4 hrs = 60$ an hour (180$,240$)
. 4-5 hrs = 65$ an hour (260$,325$)

after party 10$ every 2 hours
does that answer your question?

Answer 5

Nothing, because you shouldn't be photographing a wedding as a student and/or amateur. It is a couples biggest day and there should be no risks that something might go wrong with the photography

Answer 6

My guess would be the cost of all your expenses plus $25 or so an hour, however long you guesstimate it to be, as a minimum. And rights to use the photos to promote your business.