Another "How much do I charge" thread...

Sorry to beat a dead horse, but...

I went to a local club to see a show, and took pics because I loved the group that was playing. Well after taking pics, friends said you should let the club see the pics. So I did, and now they say they want to use a few of them, and asking how much I charge. They also said I can come back for any show I want to take pics for them.

Now, being that I have never been asked this before, what do I charge them? And since I have a small watermark/logo on them, should I give them the pics they want without the watermark/logo? (I assume Yes to that one...)

We all start somewhere, and I guess I'm starting now.

I don't think there's a universal answer to "what should I charge'. So much depends...a photograph could be worth $5,000.00 or it could be worth $5.00, there are very few rules to follow. What's 16" of video worth standing in Dealey Plaza if you shot it today? What's the Zapruder film "worth"?

Come up with a number that you feel comfortable with, or ask the club what they had in mind and then negotiate to somewhere in the middle. Don't get too hung up on "future opportunities", but don't neglect to consider it as well.

Sorry to give such a vague answer, but it's because there really isn't a clear one in most cases.

Best of luck.

Negotiating after the fact is always a nightmare. Pick a price point where you would feel respected if you got it, but would not scare away the prospective client. Then set a rate sheet upfront for later use so that everyone understands whats going on.