Photography Price

[laawaaris]

I have been talking with some wedding photographers and they indicated to me they need assistance with their bookings this season.

What price would you guys recommend charging for basic wedding photography services? My thought is that I would take unlimited photos for a specified time and deliver the pictures on CD.

Would you charge by hour or would you charge by the project? What is a good competitive rate to ask for?

[HotHolly]

Do you mean as a 2nd shooter or as the primary - like they contract out to you to cover the wedding?

[laawaaris]

Hmm interesting point. At this point I would probably only be able to serve as a 2nd shooter - since I need more experience.

What do you guys think?

[ndsimm]

If you are going to be a 2nd, consider an hourly rate....If the number of hours at each wedding are close to the same, then it might be to your benefit to have a set rate per event...just a guideline...YMMV

[mandys23]

aww your first wedding i did a wedding over the summer and i was the same way i was new at doing wedding but then i started researching and looking at different ways people did weddings and it gave me good ideas to do with the bride or the groomsmen etc. even though you need more experience believe me this is going to be a wonderful learning experience and just have fun becuase photography is your art!!!!!

[Daniel Bates]

If it's your first wedding, I wouldn't necessarily expect compensation. But if you're an experienced second shooter with many weddings under your belt, a typical day rate is around $200 (ish).

[HotHolly]

Ditto to Daniel. Getting your 1st wedding paid would be difficult. Volunteering would get your foot in the door - then if the studio you did that with likes you, they are very likely to throw more work your way.