Hi, there I'm Charles and I want to briefly address a few things you should know before hiring a photographer for your business.
Have you ever hired a Commercial Photographer? Do you know what to look for? Do you have the budget for a commercial photographer?
Most of you will say no. I'm fully aware a majority of people experienced a photographer only for family and High School senior photographs. I'm one of those people. Do not be discouraged. In this blog, I'll lay out in easy terms how to understand what your photographer does before, during, and after your shoot. I'll help you understand his fees and help you break it down to your per hour cost.
I'm just going to jump right into it. When you book your first commercial photographer, expect some sticker shock. Your photographer's creative fee is the cost of his time, skill, and equipment. Sometimes this includes licensing. A photo's license usually lasts a period and for use, such as social media, web, or print. The next cost is your talent. This could be models or assistants it takes to produce your shoot. They tend to vary in value based on experience and reputation. There are other intangibles, such as permits, travel, and coordinating fees. Your photographer will coordinate everything with the shoot.
Let us take a look at what your invoice could potentially look like for one day:
*these are not actual numbers and could vary from state to state.
Food? I know what your thinking. No, however, it saves you an hour of fees and maximizes the output of the shoot. It allows everyone to stay in the zone. The makeup artist, assistants, and models get paid for the time. I don't think they'll punch out the clock to watch your costs.
Licensing is another item not listed here. $250 a photo for one year. You could essentially add $2500 for ten photographs, and that price could go up for just one license. Some photographer adds fees for each use, such as social media and print.
The most important thing about your photographer is that he creates work you want to consistently represent your business or brand. This means he can meet your expectations.
Communication is also essential. You want a photographer who communicates details. Suppose your target market is 25 to 40-year old's for streetwear. Do you go with subtle Jordan's, Kobe's, or Lebron's? What shoe will your target market best attach your garment to?
While that's just food for thought, you need a look you love because these will be your images for at least the next 12 months. They also need to deliver the right message to your target audience.
Do you have the budget? Most people don't, but if your marketing budget is ten percent of your revenue and you have $2000 available, the answer is maybe. Photography is a journey, and you need to find the photographer to fit your budget, not find a budget to suit your photographer. I know I'm not everyone's photographer. I turn down work I need all the time. It's nothing personal I'm just not interested in that type of work, and there's another photographer out there who is who will do it for that price.
Should you decide to choose Charles Stokes Photography for your business needs. Email me, and let's start your journey together.