Pricing, etc.

Hey everyone,

  So, I've had problems that every photographer has had when it comes to pricing. I don't want to go to low, because people will think I'm not skilled, I don't want to go too high, because I don't want people to think they're getting ripped off, and finally I want to be fair so I wasn't making anyone pay deposits.

I'm happy with where I've set my price. I think it's a very affordable price for someone starting a business, I charge $75.00 for an hour long session. I don't know what prices are like in your neck of the woods, but here in Portland Oregon it's a GREAT deal! Especially since I put HOURS of editing into my work.

What I am/was struggling with, however, is that I didn't think it would be fair to put in place a non-refundable deposit, like all other photographers do. I've learned from reading enough blogs and from my own experience that it is most definitely necessary. I have been stood up more times than I can count. When you're first starting your business most of your clients are friends, or friends of friends. They often think that this isn't a business transaction but more like friends meeting up so they don't feel bad about cancelling. Never again am I going to set up an appointment with out taking a full deposit. If they pay in full, I don't have to refigure my budget, and I won't feel like it was a total waste of my time if they cancel. What lots of people don't understand is that we photographer put time and effort in preparing for a shoot. We don't just show up with our camera (some might, but I don't). I make cute little props for themes, etc.
Also if they pay in advance they're more likely to actually show up. I don't get disappointed about the money as much as I get disappointed about not getting to take photos. I LOVE photography! Most photographers do, and I love each experience, because they're all so unique.

So, to you newbies like me.... Don't sell yourself short. You are worth what you think you're worth and the right clients will see that for themselves. If they're not willing to pay your price and they're not willing to pay up front, are they really someone you want to work with?

Food for thought! I hope you're all doing well. Please feel free to leave comments, but please be respectful to me and others.


PS. I made my first sale on my Etsy shop. "Especially Made by Jess". How exciting!?!?!?!?!