Helps and Tips on pricing for a photo shoot.

Hey guys, I have a few questions. I'm actually a student (not a photography major). I've been doing photography this past two years because I really enjoy it.. and a lot of people have been asking me for photo shoots. I've done a lot for my family and friends for FREE. And now I am sort of looking to promote myself to make some extra cash... I own a 60D and I do not really have higher end lens, I currently own : canon 50mm 1.8, sigma 30mm 1.4, canon 100mm 2.0, and sigma 10-20. As you can see I am obsessed with prime lens .

Moreover, does photographers charge based on their equipment they own? or does it depend on the pictures outcome and their "talent." My apologizes if I said anything wrong. I'm still learning and looking for help.

Anyway, As a new photographer a lot of people have been asking me for a "fair" price on pricing their photo shoots such as couples anniversary,engagement photos, or just day outings and events. I do not want to sound greedy or throw a price that would sound ridiculous. So, I am asking you guys where should I start? How should I start charging? Below, is a link to my photography work, let me know what you guys think and how I should start pricing... Thank you so much for your time!

http://www.flickr.com/​photos/minhie/

Nobody gives a damn about that but you?

Now you've got it.

I don't see anything on page 1 that I'd want to pay you for? But you have some nice things after that. Redo your site. Put the very best out where people will see them first thing. Leave the rest out. Few people will go to page 3.

As for pricing, where do you work? NYC? Podunk? It does make a difference. Who's your competition? What do they deliver & at what price? Can you compete with them in both areas?

And of course, the "Sticky" at the top of this Business section: How Much do I charge? For your consideration

Thanks for your response! i'll look into it more.. and try to fix up the site a bit.

I think you've got a very nice point of view. I could see you promoting yourself shooting kids/families in a more artsy non-traditional style... which could set you apart from other photographers in your area.
For me, I charge what I feel like my work is worth.
I charge $400+ for a model shoot, because I know I can deliver images that their agency will love and will get them work.
For family portraits, I charge considerably less because 1. I'm not nearly as good at it as the next guy 2. I'm just not into portraits lol Generally $100-200 max.

My advice would be to start with a price you can live with, see how it's recieved. See how happy the paid client is with your work and go from there.

GL!

Chanel Rene wrote in post #12563789
I think you've got a very nice point of view. I could see you promoting yourself shooting kids/families in a more artsy non-traditional style... which could set you apart from other photographers in your area.
For me, I charge what I feel like my work is worth.
I charge $400+ for a model shoot, because I know I can deliver images that their agency will love and will get them work.
For family portraits, I charge considerably less because 1. I'm not nearly as good at it as the next guy 2. I'm just not into portraits lol Generally $100-200 max.

My advice would be to start with a price you can live with, see how it's recieved. See how happy the paid client is with your work and go from there.

GL!

can't thank you enough for your words! i'll definitely look more into this