How much should I charge for my photography?

Question

I've just started out.

Here's my work:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/experimentalrebirthstudios/

What's a reasonable price to charge for headshots, portraits, weddings, kids, full-time models and new models?


Thanks.

Answer 1

I have to agree with others, you're not ready to charge. Many of these are rather random snaps not intended to have any real purpose. Lacking in strong composition and some lacking in focus. Also, you're shooting strictly in auto. Unless you have a clue as to how to shoot in manual you cannot for a second think you are ready to charge.



And let me tell you something from first hand experience a week ago: I shot my first wedding as a SECONDARY shooter and was overwhelmed and exhausted in only 2 hours. TWO! And as I said, I was the secondary. I was running all over the place getting candids of guests, the bride, and then shooting the ceremony itself while I had guests in my way and awkward lighting. Let me ask you: Would YOU know what to do if guests were in your way or some snap happy guest kept getting into your shot? I'll bet not.



Portraits: Do you know how to avoid harsh shadows? Do you know how to work with a reflector? Do you know how to work with your client/model to get their best pose, best face? Another example: I don't know poses by studying incessantly BUT I have worked closely enough with pros and listened when someone told me a pose looked too feminine, too masculine, too out of place and I worked with that for the next shoot.



Do you know how to give direction? Do you know how to work with models in general? They're crazy people sometimes. Flakes, divas, b*tches, and then the handful of good models you want to work with.



There is no reason to follow rules 100% but you need to learn first while finding your style and figuring out the difference between good photography and just random snapshots. When you have figured this out, then you can consider charging. Right now, you're not ready. Also, the name "Headless Chicken Studios" does not instill confidence. If I was considering a studio yours would be one I'd turn away from by name alone. I get you're trying to be funny but it just doesn't work or suggest professionalism.



I wish you luck.

Answer 2

At least they are somewhat different in setting and style. However, you are not ready to charge yet. If these are your best, you have some way to go. You might be OK shooting friends for cost or a few dollars for fun, but do you think a bride and groom would be happy with this?



http://www.flickr.com/photos/experimentalrebirthstudios/4428694057/



(What is wrong with this one you ask? Unflattering angle and pose, underexposed, blurred, and the white balance is off, for starters.) The cat is much better than any of your people shots, although I do rather like this one for the dark mood:



http://www.flickr.com/photos/experimentalrebirthstudios/4424353246/



As you said, you are just starting out. Learn the basics of exposure and composition first, before trying to take money. Learn how to form your own exposure rather than depending on the camera to do your thinking. Visit the bookstore for books on portraiture, since that seems to be an area you like and are interested in



You are in no way ready to think of shooting weddings, you are simply not skilled or experienced enough. (And probably do not have the equipment and back-up gear, either.) You might do some trade for prints for new wanna-be models for the experience and to begin a portfolio. Offer to shoot senior portraits pets, or kid's birthday parties, things that are less critical to get good results. If someone is not happy with their senior portraits, you can always re-shoot or refund, but with weddings that is not an option.



Continue to learn and practice to develop your own style. Do not be discouraged, but keep at it. It takes a while to become competent at any craft, including photography. Start with small steps and build your skill and portfolio. Best wishes and good luck.

Answer 3

Hey honey, I too am just starting out in this. Actually, I've been going for over two years. To all the other people who have commented: ouch, harsh. While I agree that you may not be ready to start charging, I will say you have a few nice photographs. (I commented on the one of the cat, it looks exactly like mine!) Do not be discouraged by what others have to say; accept it as helpful criticism. Do your research and learn the basic concepts of photography. There are some great resources on the Web. Read your manual until you know your camera like the back of your hand. The few pics you have of that one guy look painfully awkward. Experiment with lighting, poses, position, etc. The number one thing, though: Do NOT get ahead of yourself. Weddings are a huge deal and if you cannot provide the satisfaction they are looking for AND you don't have the equipment, pass. I would say start off with friends and family. Do not charge a fee. If you do, only charge if they want prints, but only charge how much it costs YOU to get them. Don't give up. "Your first 10,000 photographs are your worst." - Henri Cartier-Bresson

Answer 4

You're not quite ready to charge for your photography. You need to get some more practice and learn some technical skills. Don't let that frustrate you. We all have to start somewhere. I think it's great that you want to pursue photography. You have a few options. You can start out by going to photography school. If you don't want to go to school full time that's fine. You don't have to get a degree in photography to become a professional photographer. You can take a few photography classes at your local college. See if you can get some kind of work or internship with a professional photography. You can learn about the business and also see how a professional deals with lighting and equipment. Take lots of pictures all the time. Experiment with different ideas. Join some Flickr groups and ask a ton of questions. Most people will help you out. Good luck!

Answer 5

I sugest that you go to college and do a diploma course in photography. I am 1/2 way through one and I have learned so much. If you are serious about becoming pro then join AOP and get the book Beyond the Lens. It tells you all about the serious side of the buisness. Do a google on AOP. The most important thing is to enjoy yourself! all my love Angella x x x x x

Ps. Head shots for an actor, around 150 quid

Answer 6

For portraiture, what do you know about lighting, corrective posing, the effects of different nose shadows or the indications of certain postures? For weddings, do you have back up of all your equipment, have you been second shooter for an established pro for a year, learning all the requirements for different services and situations?



Nothing in your portfolio indicates you are knowledgeable and prepared for this type of work. You do have a few decent shots there, I saw one VERY out of focus image that should be culled from your stream.



I highly suggest that before you start seeing dollar signs you invest in yourself first, educating yourself so that you can, in the future, excel at this craft.

Answer 7

The images you take will depend on the client's individual needs. What you charge is up to you and the work involved.

Answer 8

There not the most professional, so £20 for a few.

Answer 9

If you gave it away for free that would still be a little pricey.