Expert: Sara Bella - 3/21/2008

Question
QUESTION: I am a photographer, I have my first real paying project with a very large company, and I need to have an idea of what to charge them.  I will be doing anything form, food photography, to architecture and advertising.  I am not sure if I should charge hourly or just a lump sum...  I don't have experience with what to ask for. if I work an 8 hour day taking pictures, then go home and spend 5 hours editing and working on those photos, what would be a good cost for that?  Thank you for your time.

ANSWER: This is a difficult question as the answer will vary depending on your workflow.  You have to consider how long you will spend on each image and how many images you will produce.  I normally charge $200/hour. I would not suggest that you quote them a lump sum until you know what is involved with the project.  If they try to pressure you into giving a price quote without providing more info, it is a definite red flag.  Once they provide you more information, you should be able to gauge your rate.  

Some things to consider: Are you using your own equiipment?  Your own computer?  If so, you should figure this into your cost.  How much will it cost to have prints made?  Or to create digital files (CD's, DVD's?)  How long will it take you to edit the photos?  How long will you actually spend shooting, composing, arranging, lighting, conceptualizing...etc.  You have to figure all of these things into your cost.  

There are so many variables to consider, hopefully this will help you on your way to figuring a price.  

Please do not hesitate to contact me again if I can provide any further information.

Good luck

Sara

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Sara,  Thank you so much for your quick response!  This project just came up yesterday, so I haven't gotten all the details just yet.  I will be using my own camera, computer and putting the prints on a disk.  Since I am just starting out I just don't know what to ask for.  It's so confusing.  My dream has come true but I am scared to quote a price, I don't want it to be low then rip myself off.  But at the same time I don't want to ask for too much and have them pass on me.  Thank you so much, I hope you have a great weekend!

Answer
You are welcome.

Just remember to pay yourself appropriately.  Often times, companies and individuals will approach local colleges or high schools looking to save money.  When I first started out, a friend told me to take the number I had in mind and double it, and that should be my cost.  Instead, I made sure to consider ALL of my costs and time and I have been quite happy with my rates.  

Good luck with your new opportunity.

Sara