Pixtus - Photography Forum, Photographers, Photo Tips

s54_m · 02:13 PM

Hey guys/gals

Lately I've been doing a couple commercial gigs on the side but recently ran across a customer who did not want to discuss price prior to the shoot as he is an acquaintance of my family and I.

His main goal for these pictures were to put on his website and for other advertisement purposes. (billboards, etc)

How much should I charge in this case?

I've spent about half a day taking the photo's and over half day of post processing.

I'm thinking pricing along the lines of $400-$500 which would include retakes of any small additions to the bar or drink menu for a minimal price if at all.

Sample pictures are available here:

Thanks!!

brad · 09-27-2011, 03:56 PM

Here's a starting place to think about:

Stock Photo Price Calculator

tc95 · 09-27-2011, 04:08 PM

Great website Brad...!!!

s54_m · 09-27-2011, 04:12 PM

thanks for the link!!

I will use it as a general idea as I do not have a daily cost for operating

Howard Barlow · 09-27-2011, 04:39 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by s54_m

... recently ran across a customer who did not want to discuss price prior to the shoot as he is an acquaintance of my family and I...

There is a chance this will end without bloodshed. There is even an outside chance you will still be friends. But, that's not the way smart money bets. However, I cannot imagine taking one step forward, after someone said that.

Tom · 09-27-2011, 04:55 PM

Quote:

recently ran across a customer who did not want to discuss price prior to the shoot as he is an acquaintance of my family and I.

NEVER do business without discussing business first. That is a great way to hurt feelings. If you give him your price you think you are worth and he thinks you are extorting him, it is going to be hard to overcome that and not have hurt feelings. I would tread very carefully to make sure there isn't relationship damage.

Quote:

Originally Posted by brad

Here's a starting place to think about:

Stock Photo Price Calculator

Licensing stock images and shooting a commercial gig on assignment are two entirely different things.

s54_m · 09-27-2011, 05:10 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom

NEVER do business without discussing business first. That is a great way to hurt feelings. If you give him your price you think you are worth and he thinks you are extorting him, it is going to be hard to overcome that and not have hurt feelings. I would tread very carefully to make sure there isn't relationship damage.

Licensing stock images and shooting a commercial gig on assignment are two entirely different things.

That's what I was kinda worried about but I'm positive everything will be worked out just fine. We know him well enough where it won't be a big issue.

Nikonfan · 09-27-2011, 05:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by s54_m

That's what I was kinda worried about but I'm positive everything will be worked out just fine. We know him well enough where it won't be a big issue.

I hope that it does turn out well for you. If it does then you dodged a bullet.

Many people think that because cameras are digital there are no film or processing costs so it really doesn't cost us photographers anything. It usually goes something like this:

Since you are a friend you will probably be happy to do it for free. But as a friend they will pay you like $25 to cover your gas. So they have an unrealistic expectation and get upset when you come in with anything above that.

It's very frustrating to say the least. But that's why it's best to get something firm upset.

Also, it can be akward having friends sign contracts, but make sure to treat them as you would anyone else where that is concerned. Otherwise you could really wind up in a mess. If you do let me know. I have a cousin who is a lawyer so I am sure he could give some free advice

brad · 09-27-2011, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom

Licensing stock images and shooting a commercial gig on assignment are two entirely different things.

Yup.. thus I said "starting place" to "think"

s54_m · 11:02 AM

Thanks for all the help everyone.

Business transaction went very smoothly and he was very happy with product.

But remember kids.
DISCUSS PRICE PRIOR. ALWAYS!

Howard Barlow · 09-28-2011, 11:45 AM

Well, don't leave us in suspense...

Did you get your price?

Was it in line with what he expected?

Did you have to decide between your price and your friendship?

Inquiring minds want to know. As do nosey peeps.