Charity Photography?

Hi World,

I was wondering if anyone actually does any charity photography?

I overheard someone mention that a charity was getting charged full rate for some pictures and they simply couldnt afford it.

I was pondering with the idea of helping them out and getting a warm and fuzzy feeling helping a charity and allowing that charity the limelight it deserves without worrying about the cost.

So I was just curious if anyone else had given this any thought?

Murray

I do it. I consider it gorilla marketing, It get you th photographer in the public eye and when they want to have portraits or need an event shot that is not connected with the charity then it is a good chance they will call on you. Careful, don't over do it though, charity organizations do have a tendency to take you for granted after a while. Be sure you are also careful of the type of charity you get involved with, only work with the ones that are well known in the community or nationally.

I've have done a few different charities. I always do the ones that I believe in personally and end up turning down alot of requests from non-profit organizations.

Depending on what they want, it can work to your advantage by putting your name out there somewhat. In most cases these are relatively small circles of people and you have to pick and choose the ones that will give you the best exposure. I have done some knowing full well that it wasn't going to do anything for me but I had a personal feeling of self fulfillment by doing so.

You do not have to do everything for free. I have done some on a discounted basis where the photographer can still make some money while giving the organization a break. If you are doing work for a registered non-profit, you may be eligible for a tax receipt from them.

Unforetuneately this year I have had to turn them all down as I am just too busy. This does force them to try and find someone else which I find value in as some of them will try to take advantage of your giving.

I do this as well - the local Habitat for Humanity for example. I find it satisfying.

I go up early last September to photography the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer, 4 hours, 40,000 women, 1000 shots. It was a good experience.

It doesn't hurt to occasionally do something for nothing. You couldn't do it all the time or you'd need the charity yourself! But as long as you're aware of this then why not?

I do work for free or very reduced rates (cover gas etc) for a couple of organizations. One is helping disabled veterans. I say if you can afford the time and its a worthy cause that you believe in do it....

I do the local Humane Society's adoptable pets. We have met some great people through this, that remember us when they are looking for photography and it does make you feel good to do something to help some unfortunate creatures find caring and loving homes.

Why wouldn't you help a charity or not-for-profit organization. I volunteer my time anyway. It is more fun for me and more beneficial to the organization if I do photography rather than something else another volunteer could do better.

Thanks folks - Have contacted the Scottish voluntary support service looking to get a list of interested organizations and will take it from there.

Appreciate the info and have a nice week

Murray