Prom Style shoot

[strphoto]

What do you typically charge for these events?

[bondarnes]

It depends on a lot of factors, but we usually have a starting package under $20.00 with two 5X7's and then we will have five to seven other packages up to $99.00

[kula23]

I did that prom and charge for $120 for 8 couples......I will never do that ever again. The parent who hired me, telling them what to do, never let me do my job. I will never do that ever again!

[CaptainTom]

I typically charge a base fee that the school pays and then the participants order from my web site.

[Daniel W.]

I do what Tom does. It's easier for me, easier for parents, and "green" because you're cutting back on "back and forth paperwork." There is a issue if you are at the school and doing every couple, having the pictures online can raise flags with admin. Make sure to get a blanket signoff from the school. If you're going to a group before the dance (not actually on site), it's less of an issue. For the latter, I charge a per-head fee (usually $10, $18 for a couple) and sell online also. End profit isn't as bad but it is alot of work getting a large number of photos up, which is why I prefer the groups, not at the dance, option.

Kelly, its not a matter of letting you do your job. If they're paying you and making the photos worse, that is more work for you. You can politely tell them that you're the pro, from experience you know what works and what doesn't. It's easier to have a bunch of great photos, 7 happy couples, and 1 with a p/o'd parent than 1 parent who felt like "they did all the work" and 8 kids who don't really like their photos. I did a few prom groups (before, and not at the dance), and it was probably in the top 5 of "ended up as a senior booking / large order." Last minute seniors yes, but clients nonetheless.

(deviation for devil's advocate, I'll willingly allow folks to have their say in the posing and whatnot if it looks natural and better than our canned poses. I say whichever is better let reign.)

The day I quit is when studios start promoting maternity shoots at proms.

[CaptainTom]

I try to get classic poses when possible, and then just let the kids do their own thing (within reason of course).
It's worked so far because they keep inviting me back.

You can see some examples HERE (password is colonial)

these were all shot with a camera bracket and a Q30 softbox with Canon 580II.

[strphoto]

These people are wanting a digital backdrop set up at the event. I am thinking I would have to charge $500 upfront just too cover the back end work. Then discounting the pictures on the web for a month after the event.

[CaptainTom]

what is a digital backdrop ? Do you mean a green screen ?
Quote them $3000 and see if they are still interested.

[J Eddington]

"What is a Digital backdrop?" I guess that is a good question Tom. I thought he was talking about a front projection like Virtual Backgrounds.net.
I can't image how much processin time it would take with a green screen!

[strphoto]

Yeah they want green screen and some choices on Chrismas themed digital backgrounds.

[CaptainTom]

I'll just step up there and say that if you are asking how much to charge for this, you likely have no idea what you would be getting in to and you should not take on this job.

[strphoto]

I sent out the quote b/c it is for a wedding planner friend. Thanks for all the help.