What does the average photographer charge?

Question

My friend and a few of his friends asked me if i'd do some photos, both group and couples. They requested because they're aware i'm short on cash, but am rather handy with a camera... the problem is that they asked me what i'd charge, and i haven't the slightest idea what the going rate for a "middle-class" photographer is!
Can anyone give me any ideas?

Answer 1

middle class? average?

charge half what a pro would.


a

Answer 2

The "average" photographer doesn't do a very good job and has a hard time giving away photos. You are way above average as your friends see you have talent.

Here is how a professional, as you are sure to become, will price the wares.

First, how much do you need to be paid to make photography worthwile to you. Use that figure for the session shooting time, and the time spent with "photoshop" or your computer editor. Great photographers, such as Ansel Adams, did not just get snapshots, but spent many hours in the lab making the print. I would suggest that you value yourself at least $20 per hour, so if you can do the sitting and the printing in 2 hours, thats $40.

Second, you have to account for your equipment. Even if you own your own camera and lighting gear, you need to charge the customer that value. You might want to get an idea of what rental charges apply from your photo dealer. A camera and light kit half day rental will easily be $100.

Third is the studio. If you are doing this outdoors or at your clients house, you can cut a break for this. But if you provide the shooting location, that must be covered. Bare studio time not inexpensive, just using a garage or room in your house should be $20 per hour.

And finally a price based on media provided. So much per 8x10 print (certainly not less than $10) and 5x7 (at least $6.) Generally a sitting requires purchase of a minimum number of prints. If the minimum is 1- 8" and 4- 5" thats $34.

So you can see that to do this professionally, you need to charge $174 (or more depending on the particulars of your situation). If that is too high, then volunteer to do for free and give them one 5x7 as a proof. However once they see the pictures, they won't hesitate to offer up the full payment. But don't "negotiate" or devalue your work, ever.

Answer 3

Do you want to gouge your friends, charging like a pro, when they are trying to help you out a bit with some $$'s.

It shouldnt be hard to figure something fair for your time. Do you provide editting, if your exposure, etc..., isnt correct?? DO you provide prints?? What sizes?? Your printer, or a Kiosk in Walmart??

Break it down and be fair.

Answer 4

it depends the setting.
how many photographs
how long you are working with them
how many prints are you going to give them
what size?
digital photography?


but if they are your friends dont forget dont go to high and loose the business but if you need the cash...charge them how much you would want to be charged put your self in their shoes...