Teaching

I have a part time photography business, I shoot for a local newspaper and a locally published high school athletic magazine. I get a lot of parents asking advice on how to take better photos of their kids at sporting events. I have always helped those who have asked but unfortunately many just don't own the equipment capable of shooting action photos in junior or senior high gyms. Over the last three years I have probably had a half dozen parents say that I should put on a class.

Several parents in the last week have again asked about the possibility of this. I am considering it at this point. Has anyone done this? If so, what have you charged? I have some basic tips in mind along with trying to get them to make interesting compositions.

I know I will be challenged by their equipment but I do think there are a number of people I could help.

Thoughts?

You're not in West Michigan are you by any chance?

FWIW- Speaking as a parent that would likely do a class like that, I would just recommend that you set a "minimum equipment needed" caveat to the class sign-up. That way moms that have an outdated ps don't come expecting miracles. Or at least they would know that they could come and learn what the minimum they need to buy. HTH

I've chatted with plenty of parents, many of whom seem to be interested in taking better pictures. But I'm not sure how many would really be interested enough to buy the equipment they really need and attend even a short class.

It's really easy to say "How do you take such great pictures?" to a photographer that is standing right there. It's more follow through for people to really go through the steps of paying and attending a class.

NewCreation wrote in post #15591440
You're not in West Michigan are you by any chance?

FWIW- Speaking as a parent that would likely do a class like that, I would just recommend that you set a "minimum equipment needed" caveat to the class sign-up. That way moms that have an outdated ps don't come expecting miracles. Or at least they would know that they could come and learn what the minimum they need to buy. HTH

JeffreyG wrote in post #15591554
I've chatted with plenty of parents, many of whom seem to be interested in taking better pictures. But I'm not sure how many would really be interested enough to buy the equipment they really need and attend even a short class.

It's really easy to say "How do you take such great pictures?" to a photographer that is standing right there. It's more follow through for people to really go through the steps of paying and attending a class.

Eastern Michigan...

If I do this, yes there would have to be a few qualifications such as minimum equipment. There does seem to be serious interest but as I said i have given advice to some and the equipment falls short for most. There are a few that have new enough, higher-end dslr's that could benefit from basic tips. Which is really all I want to offer, I have enough competition now...
And... they may appreciate what I do a little more once they find out what the cost is to do the job correctly. Then again, probably not.

How much does a tutor charge for piano, vocal, math, SAT prep? Do a little research in your area and you will have a good comparison. To learn piano you don't need a baby grand, you just want to learn how to use what you have. In most cases parents will realize that they can get better but can't get a SI cover photo. You will help them learn to be better and maybe that interest will fuel an equipment purchase.