Suggestions needed! Again... :)
I took photos of the medical staff that works in our department at the hospital. These photos were put on the wall for public display. I had them printed in black and white, and they look great. I took these photos for no cost because it was just my way to give back to our department. There are only about 20 people
After seeing our department pictures, I have been asked by the nursing supervisor if I would be willing to photograph the nurses in her department, since they have never had staff photos taken. She has between 50 - 60 nurses. I am excited to do this and I am friends with many of the nurses in that department, but I have no idea what to charge.
Do I charge a sitting fee per person, an hourly charge or just a lump sum?
My conditions are that I take all pictures over a period of 3 days, 2 dayshift sittings and one nightshift sitting, and they can only wear black or grey since I will be using a white background.
Ideas???
P.S. I am really looking forward to doing this photo shoot so I don't want to charge the wrong amount that would be out of their budget.
Always a hard question. I'd make it simple, Calculate your total time involved and an hourly rate, equipment usage, and printing costs, document it, and then just offer them a lump sum cost.
If they do not like that, you can turn to a time and materials basis based on what you used in your estimate. Then add at least 30% to your lump sum offer if they ask for a NTE (Not to Exceed) number.
I think the lump sum will be accepted if you are fair about the value of your time. It is your risk if it takes longer to get it all done, but there is no haggling over the bits and pieces.
When I have jobs such as this one, I charge a fee per hour plus a fee per print. It keeps it nice and simple. The more experience you have, the more you can up these fees. Always try to decide a fair price.
I would go with the cost of the amount of ink and photo paper used plus a flat hourly charge at minimum to be fair (taking the photos plus processing time). And write it all down to show whoever if necessary. Problem I see is if you did your own department for free, is this other department going to expect the same? If the subject does come up it's "I work there, not here".
It's just my opinion, but if I were doing the shoot I'd charge $75 to $100 per actual hour of shooting time and any time you spend printing (if you do the printing yourself)and $5 per 8 x 10 B&W print (not framed).
Thanks for your help!!
I think, after reading all your posts, I have decided that the hourly thing is the way to go. That way, the nursing supervisor can decide how many hours she wants me to be there, and hopefully she will be more organized in getting her staff signed up and available.
You have all been most helpful! :)
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