Sell my photography

Before you get to excited about this one, let me tell you that it was pretty low key! It was certainly NOT a formal gallery. They did, however, feature my work at their Fall Festival. This gave me opportunity to be seen by the public. My hope is that it will generate business. I was also extended an invitation to join the art guild locally. They would refer people to me for a commission. I am still thinking on that one.

I have been working quite diligently to start a photography business. I have an official name registered with my state. I have a very small clientele, but that is growing. There are not many photographers locally here so if I can keep up the word of mouth advertising and referrals to my website, I believe that I will be able to at least support my business.

My goal this week is to contact the local schools and request permission to post flyers offering high school senior portraits. My other goals week, in regard to selling my photography, is to get a proof book to a senior from last week, and to finish editing the photos from the maternity shoot I did yesterday.

I was approached today about doing a photo shoot for a friend. She would like to have some pictures taken for her boyfriend who will be away for six months.

I quoted her $120 for 2-3 poses, 5o frames minimum, and (4) 5”x7” prints, with the option to upgrade paper types for extra. Prints can be ordered for $1 for a set of four wallets, 4”x6” for $0.50, 5”x7” for $1.50, 8”x10” for $2.50, and 11”x14” for $8.00. Touch ups and blemish removal are no additional charge.

What do ya’ll think? While I do not want to undersell myself, I felt that these prices were fair. I have seen some people sell an 8”x10” for $10-$15 dollars. Personally, I am not comfortable with that as I KNOW that I have sent off for one for around $1.50. I am also unsure of selling her a cd with all the images on it. What would one charge for something like that?

I am happy to report that I feel good about the results of last weekend’s graduation. As always, every time I pick up my camera, I learn something new! The pictures are processed and ready to be burned to a CD and be given to the school, with a release giving permission to do what they will with the pictures. I have chosen at this point to just give them a CD and let them determine where and how to handle getting the pictures printed.

Oh, and I got PAID!!! Yipiiee!

Well, it seems that I have a paying gig! A small school asked me to shoot photos of their grads receiving their diplomas. I am a bit concerned as it will be an outdoor grad, and the lighting and such will be a bit more unpredictable. I will let ya’ll know how it goes!

I have been actively pursuing photography for 5 months now. It is taking some time, but I am beginning to get out there some now. I did my first boudoir shoot last week, and had a lot of fun. I have two high school seniors that I will be shooting their pics, as well as several proms and dances in the area.

My problem is: How to get paid?!!

I need to research fees, I think!