Pricing a travel photoshoot... HELP!

I would probably describe myself as a semi-pro photographer... ie I am a graphic designer full time but I earn some money from stock photography & prints.

Thing is I've now been offered a commission by a travel company, initially they want to send me on a 'holiday' to Egypt to take some generic shots for one of their brochures along the lines of stuff they have bought from me before but in a different location.

If all goes well they would then like to organise some proper shoots with storyboards etc and want to know what my rates are for something like that.

As this would be my first commissioned shoot like this and is in another country I don't really know where to start! What is the normal form? would you charge a day rate plus photos or an all in package with photos included? Who would usually pay travelling expenses etc?

I hate to come across as an amateur in a pro environment but I'm new to this side of things and it's a great opportunity to get me started and I don't want to blow it so would appreciate it if I could learn from some of your experience.

You need to figure out your Creative Fee and charge 1/2 that for each day that you are traveling and not shooting. You will also need to negotiate your licensing fee for the specific usage of the images. A pro will have his paperwork in order and at least half the total fee in hand before leaving for the shoot. Will you be editing the files, taking an assistant or arranging for your own travel?

Thanksfor the reply...

So the usual set up is to charge for your time and then license the images separately on top of that?

I'll be editing the images and ideally take an assistant... is it usual to arrange & pay for your own travel or doe sit depend on the client? Sorry for all the questions!

I have always submitted my Estimate on the project and received a retainer equaling 50% before I will confirm the job. The balance was paid either on delivery of the images or within 30 days. Do not forget to cover late fees if the client misses the due date. There is nothing better than a solid trail of paperwork just in case those dates are missed. Do not miss charging for the time it takes to process and edit the images. That is time that you cannot work for someone else and must be accounted for. If you are not sure about what to charge, check with your local resources.

tcphoto1 wrote in post #10806659
I have always submitted my Estimate on the project and received a retainer equaling 50% before I will confirm the job. The balance was paid either on delivery of the images or within 30 days. Do not forget to cover late fees if the client misses the due date. There is nothing better than a solid trail of paperwork just in case those dates are missed. Do not miss charging for the time it takes to process and edit the images. That is time that you cannot work for someone else and must be accounted for. If you are not sure about what to charge, check with your local resources.

This is great advice.

Don't start without some sort of retainer/deposit.

Get EVERYTHING in writing. I highly recommend getting a lawyer to take a gander at your contract before you sign, if you can afford to do so. The assurance of having your contract legally proofread will be invaluable, especially if this grows into more work.