Need help setting photo/sitting fee prices

[cajun angel]

In January, I have a photo shoot for a family of 25. I'm supposed to go to one of the possible locations on Thursday. Because I want to be fair in my prices, I could really use some input. Another issue, my gear is very limited. So, what would be fair for a sitting fee and then charges for the photos? I'm also considering my limited experience. What have I charged in the past?

$25 sitting fee for 1-3 people

$40 basic package - (1)8x10 (2) 5x7 (8) wallets
additional "sheets" $15
16x20 = double what Wolf charges

I think this family is wanting 1 huge portrait, then a portrait of the Parents, then a portrait of each family group. Geez, I wish I had more experience and dunno about my gear! So, please help me if ya'll can. I don't want to charge top prices but not bottom either!

[photostein]

One time I did this exact same thing.

I charged $250 total and that included as many poses as they wanted, and a single set of 4x6s of all photos. That also included a CD with finished photos on it (I won't do that again). Next time I provide a CD, the photos will be jpeg, unfinished, but 100% quality.

For additional photos, my prices were rather steep:

4x6 - $6
8x10 - $20
11x14 - $50

Knowing more today about posing and lighting, I probably would charge (if I was in the business still) around $500 for a similar package.

Oh, make sure you have them sign a contract with all the details of poses, deliverables, how you will be paid and when. Ensure that includes a model release for all photos just in case you put them on your website.

Originally Posted by cajun angel

In January, I have a photo shoot for a family of 25. I'm supposed to go to one of the possible locations on Thursday. Because I want to be fair in my prices, I could really use some input. Another issue, my gear is very limited. So, what would be fair for a sitting fee and then charges for the photos? I'm also considering my limited experience. What have I charged in the past?

$25 sitting fee for 1-3 people

$40 basic package - (1)8x10 (2) 5x7 (8) wallets
additional "sheets" $15
16x20 = double what Wolf charges

I think this family is wanting 1 huge portrait, then a portrait of the Parents, then a portrait of each family group. Geez, I wish I had more experience and dunno about my gear! So, please help me if ya'll can. I don't want to charge top prices but not bottom either!

[CaptainTom]

Don't charge a "sitting fee" and make your profit from the individual sales.
What to charge for prints is a very complex question and can't be intelligently answered without knowing a lot of information about your costs, business plan, what others are getting in your area, etc.