I have two friends that are just starting out that want to have some questions answered.

I have family members that want me to take their pics and they want to know how much and I just don’t know what is reasonable for an amateur just starting out. I want to be compensated for my time obviously but am not to sure on what is a reasonable fee.   I was thinking around $100-$150.  Does that sound reasonable to you for shoot and pics on CD?

First ask yourself this question as your first starting out

1. What am I trying to achieve by taking pictures of a few friends families?

2. What is the most important purpose when I first start offering the photo sessions to them? Is your main concern to make an extra $100 or is your main concern to generate clients?

If your main concern is to generate lots of clients and you want to get your business up and running with tons of clients then start your prices at a low price such as $50-75. I know what your thinking it’s very low, you aren’t trying to make money at the moment you have either a 2nd job while you get this business going. The point the price being low is you will get your name out there very fast if you follow a few steps that are in my book.

If you want to make a little extra money on the side $100 each time is a great little extra pocket money to play around with till you get your confidence up as you build your portfolio.  As you work your skills will improve slowing over time.

If you would like my secret how I was able to make more money you have to buy my Professional Photography Business Toolbox book. It will be coming out in a few months, I just need to get a professional proofreader and it’s going out to be sold online as an ebook and hopefully then a hard copy to follow. The ebook you will be able to download!!!