Pricing Details
It has taken me so long to set up a pricing page–the reason being that every shoot and its requirements, location, details, theme, preparation time, editing time, and setup/teardown are always so different. I try to keep my pricing fair and competitive and I try to provide the best value my clients can find. And yet, I also need to make sure that my expertise and the time I spend away from my family is fairly compensated. Each shoot’s differences require different price points to keep the balance between keeping prices low, and keeping myself in business. So with that balance in mind, for the first time ever, this is my pricing list.
Go to my shoot details page for more information or go to my contact page to book or ask questions. Or see the FAQ at the bottom of the page.
If you’d like to know how to organize an efficient shoot, there are various examples of shoot timelines on my Schedule Sample page.
Individuals |
Small Groups |
Large Groups |
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Whether you want a dance, fashion, pageant, or headshot, or a combination of those, we’ll book the time needed to get the shots you need. You’ll choose from all the proofs before and approve the chosen photos are processed. Sharing the time with a friend can be more economical for you—with the bonus that both participants get almost as much time as a single shoot. For example, one person can step in front of the camera while the other person is changing clothes or looking at their pose list. *I don’t really differentiate prices based on different kinds of shoots. Headshots take as much setup time and time as artistic shoots. Headshot shoots usually yield 2 or 3 photos. |
The small group option is a great option if you’re looking to do some marketing for a show or if you have a few good friends that want to shoot together. This type of shoot is versatile; you can do group or individual shots and you can coordinate outfits and themes. Or take turns stepping in front of the lens for max variety. |
This category is the one most of my school dance teams or drill teams choose. If your group is larger—like an entire studio’s group of dancers—we can still make a shoot work in this price range. Send a message in my contact page and we’ll figure it out. |
FAQ
Some people ask…
Why do all the pricing levels say “starting at?”
As explained in the first paragraph on this page, every shoot is different. Sometimes travel, props and supplies, and other factors make the shoot harder, more expensive, or more time consuming. I try not to deviate from my pricing, but some shoots present challenges that can not be encompassed in a single price quote. That said, I have never needed to go above the amounts listed in the tables.
Why do you not charge more? And why do you charge so much?
About half of the people I talk to about my prices are surprised the prices are so reasonable in comparison to the work I make. The other half think my prices are too high. Both points of view are understandable. The equilibrium between those who believe either point of view set the price.
- To those who think I don’t charge enough for the quality of work I do: Price isn’t the driver for my work, oddly. The main driver is my time—specifically to maximize the time I have to do the things I want to do. Not everyone can afford the prices photographers charge, so I try to be a good value. Here are ways I try to save:
- Grouping: I try to group shoots together in the same place on the same day so I have less total setup and teardown time.
- Lighting: If I light the shoot correctly, there’s less work to do in processing.
- Posing: We’ll work together to make sure each pose is right in camera rather than trying to fix things in processing.
- To those who think I charge too much: I get it. I’d like them to understand the reasons:
- Expertise: I have years of experience making high quality, artistic photos for my clients.
- Maintenance: I need to make sure I have reasonable and functional photography equipment.
- Family: I have three teenage sons. They are all involved with sports and I my prices keep me busy, but not so busy that I miss all their activities.
Are there any discounts available?
Because I keep my prices low, there’s not as much room for discounts and specials. Having said that there are two things I have a soft spot for:
- Students paying their own way, and
- People who are moving from the training world into the professional world through the audition process.
If you fall into either category, let me know. We’ll figure something out.
What is the duration of a shoot?
Shoots go fast–faster than you think. I like to make sure we have enough time to accomplish everything we need before time is up. Many times I don’t bind my shoots by time. Other times I’ll book at least 2 or 3 hours for a shoot. Most people don’t take the full time, but it’s available if they need it. That way we’re not pressed trying to get the last shots in before other appointments.
Can I bring my friend for support?
Yes! Not only do I allow it, I encourage you to bring a friend or anyone who cares about the output of the shoot. They can watch for wardrobe issues like twisted straps, hair adjustments, and makeup touchups. If it’s a dance shoot, bring another dancer to help you get the lines and angles right. Sometimes I ask them to help with little things like fanning the model. As long as they are there to contribute, in most cases they make the shoot—and the result—much better.