What should you charge? There is no simple answer. First, examine your cost of doing business to understand the minimums you must charge to meet your income goals. Next, you should consider the value your client will derive from your pictures. Factors affecting value include:
If you are a staff photographer shooting on the side, you should go through the motions of determining your CDB as if you were in business for yourself--because you are. You should also consult with other self-employed photographers in the area. You don't want to undercut the market, because you just may need to make a living in it one day.
A good way to get an idea of what the market will bear is to look at what other photographers charge for similar services. The following photographers have posted their prices online.
The cost of providing digital photography to your clients is very high. Here are some tips on pricing accurately for it. This is a relatively new area. Opinions and guidelines vary.
A good accountant can make sure you are obeying tax laws, help you get all the deductions you have coming to you, and help you take a financial "picture" of your business.
If you have any suggestions for changes or additions to this page, please email us at bpc@nppa.com
