How can I make money from photography?

Question

I recently placed an advert online in which I advertised myself as a budding young photographer. I've now received a response to that advert from someone who'd like a few snaps, but unfortunatly, as I advertised myself as amateur, I'm not sure that they'll expect to pay me, particularly as this would be my first 'gig'. I don't have much in the way of complex gear, and I don't know all that much about photography - but I'd like to learn more and make some money from it all.

Do you think I'll be able to get a little money from this guy? Do I need hi-tech, massive cameras to qualify as a photographer? How can I get by in photography? Should I be shot for asking such daft questions?

Thanks!

Answer 1

If I were you I wouldn't charge him/her anything, as it sounds like you have no idea what you're doing.



If you want to be successful in photography, the most important thing is to never stop shooting. The more you shoot the better you get. Use this first photoshoot as a learning experience. Things may not go perfectly, but that doesn't matter because you'll learn from it.



It may be worthwhile for you to get to grips with whatever camera you're using so you feel comfortable with it. And one of the most important things about photography is lighting. Learn to use light, especially if you're photographing people.

Answer 2

People like art... but they don't like to pay for it. ha ha. You are traveling and using your time and resources so you should be compensated.



I think you can probably talk the guy into paying you a reasonable hourly wage but realistically not too much more than that. If you aren't retouching the photos you could probably get him to pay you $25 for an hour of shooting. If you are retouching the shots via photoshop or something BE VERY CAREFUL to make sure and negotiate a set sum for that service before you do it. If you come back with awesome shots that took you 100 hours of photoshopping.... he might like them better but he isn't going to want to pay you any more for them. Most people have no idea how involved that kind of stuff can get. Another thing that is helpful is to print out a pricing sheet with several different options and pricing schedules so that he understands that different services have different values. If he does not want to pay you, tell him that you will take photos of him but that you will be keeping them for your portfolio and he can purchase them later at the fee schedule you outlined on your sheet.



Matt (the bf) suggested that you open a modelmayhem.com account and post your portfolio online and seek out advice from people that are already in the biz. He also suggested that you find some local publications and ask for an internship from the photo-director. Additionally, take a look at eyeworksphotography.com to see a very professional photographer and what he offers and how much he charges. I am not suggesting that you jump in with those prices but at least it will give you an idea of what the market will bear.

Answer 3

You dont need big complex gear to take good photos.



1) You should have told us what camera you have so we could have helped you more.



2) Have you got an account on http://www.redbubble.com/ or flickr so we can look at what you can do, so we can give you tips etc?



3) Are you printing the pics for the person or are you going to give then to him in digital format?



Dont forget, that there are thousands of others who think the same as you, and it is a very competitive market, so unless you are exceptionally good, and can offer something much better than anyone else, then the answer will be no, you wont make any money at it.

Answer 4

Try Trick Photography Special Effects - http://tinyurl.com/bl4uZUm920

Answer 5

do it for the expericence, take at least 20 photos, make up a contact sheet or print off some thumbnails and show the person, tell them that they can have one blown up for a price, preferably the price you paid for the advert so you can do it again and this time be more specific on what service your offer.



http://www.fyneart.com/

Answer 6

Ehm..

If you are looking for a photography jobs,

you should check this service http://www.goobypls.com/r/rd.asp?gid=293

Regards

Answer 7

if you are new, watch a few youtube videos read a few articles on angles and such.. Bottom line when you get there.. lie through you fawking teeth.Act,walk talk like you are 10 feet tall and bullet proof and hung like a horse..Give a real strong illusion about you know what you are talking about and you'll do just great ;)