Clueless on how much to charge

[ChloeP]

I was wondering if any of you could please help me with a rough guide on how to price things.

I have been asked to do some product photography for a woman who sells her handmade children's decorations. She doesn't have a big website or company yet she is a stay at home mum.

I will be shooting around 30 items some arty shots indoors and she wants some outside.

I have never been paid to do this before and have no idea how many hours it will take to complete.
I don't want to charge too much as I see it as building up my portfolio but I don't want to charge too little either.

Thanks in advance
Chloe

[Troy]

Well this may be coming in a bit late, but it all depends on how much your time is worth.

If you're happy to get some experience and build your portfolio, maybe just charge some expenses plus a little for your time.

Just be warned, if you charge very little for this client, others might catch wind and expect those prices for work later on.

There is nothing wrong with being open with the client, and discussing what would be suit the both of you.

[Grant Stringer]

My ideas about pricing are based on whats a good deal for both parties - this is a bit of a compromise situation where agreement is fair and neither party feels ripped off - the good thing about this is it encourages clients to come to you because if you offer a top quality product at a competitive but fair price everyone is happy!
I would also encourage anyone to be generous to those less fortunate and provide concessions for deserving cases.

[ChloeP]

Thank you for the replies.

She ended up pulling out as she didn't need it anymore but I have another woman who makes hand made soaps. She is 'paying' me in her stock for me to sell on. More than happy as this will help with building a portfolio

[Grant Stringer]

Pleased its working out keep us posted!