I knew I'd run in to a situation like this sooner or later, however I didn't know I'd be so unprepared for it!
The backstory: I have someone looking to have a large amount of product photography done. Client got my name from a friend of the family. Said client is tired of current poor quality photographs.
Upon explaining my rates I was met with what I can only describe as.. astonishment? Mind you they're not excessive and are quite in line with 'going rates.' Client wants to pay something like 1/4th of that, at best. Using their equipment, at their location (mystery gear!). Or at my in-home studio, as they must be present. No idea why.
My main problem lies in the old 'cheapening of the industry' argument. Obviously they've had people who have worked for very sub-standard rates before - and delivered mostly sub-standard product. I'm a bit peeved that I should be expected to work at the same rate for a much higher quality of work.
Regardless, I could use the money. It's also a repeat job.. Then again, I hate to drop my fee (makes it appear I was just ripping someone off, which I wasn't) and further reinforce the idea that good work can be had for little pay. It makes it harder for everyone in the industry.
I was also quite put off by the repeated suggestions that "it's easy" and the implication that I shouldn't charge (or bundle with a rate) for any processing as "programs do it all for you." Innocent ignorance but extremely frustrating nonetheless - if it's so easy, take the pictures and get 'that' program and do it yourself!
Obviously they've had people who have worked for very sub-standard rates before - and delivered mostly sub-standard product.
There's your money quote right there. The argument is soooo simple: "Look, you've been getting photographers to work on the cheap, and look what it's gotten you. I'm offering you a chance to break that cycle and give you an end product that you will look at and say, 'Ah yes, totally worth it.' If you'd rather pay less and get less, I'm not your guy."
With many years in the business I can tell you that you should run backwards as fast as you can. Never cut your prices. If you make one concession to people like this then everything become negotiable. They are not interested in photography, only how cheap they can get it.
Joe Rogers
Let's see...you've got a bundle tied up in camera equipment, a high end printer, pricy software, fast computer and great calibrated monitor. You've gotten out of bed at ungodly hours, driven hundreds of miles, beat up your car, put your life at risk...need I say more?? If you put out high quality work and it is line with what others charge, then don't compromise your integrity. I've had people ask for discounts and unless I'm running a clearance on unsold items, I don't move. Good luck!
Todd hit the nail on the head. These guys need to to be educated about what their money is, or isn't, buying them. If they aren't willing to pay for quality, that's there problem. If you don't do it for them someone will, and they'll keep getting the same crap they've always gotten.
Discussion
7 repliesThe backstory: I have someone looking to have a large amount of product photography done. Client got my name from a friend of the family. Said client is tired of current poor quality photographs.
Upon explaining my rates I was met with what I can only describe as.. astonishment? Mind you they're not excessive and are quite in line with 'going rates.' Client wants to pay something like 1/4th of that, at best. Using their equipment, at their location (mystery gear!). Or at my in-home studio, as they must be present. No idea why.
My main problem lies in the old 'cheapening of the industry' argument. Obviously they've had people who have worked for very sub-standard rates before - and delivered mostly sub-standard product. I'm a bit peeved that I should be expected to work at the same rate for a much higher quality of work.
Regardless, I could use the money. It's also a repeat job.. Then again, I hate to drop my fee (makes it appear I was just ripping someone off, which I wasn't) and further reinforce the idea that good work can be had for little pay. It makes it harder for everyone in the industry.
I was also quite put off by the repeated suggestions that "it's easy" and the implication that I shouldn't charge (or bundle with a rate) for any processing as "programs do it all for you." Innocent ignorance but extremely frustrating nonetheless - if it's so easy, take the pictures and get 'that' program and do it yourself!
Anyone have any suggestions?
There's your money quote right there. The argument is soooo simple: "Look, you've been getting photographers to work on the cheap, and look what it's gotten you. I'm offering you a chance to break that cycle and give you an end product that you will look at and say, 'Ah yes, totally worth it.' If you'd rather pay less and get less, I'm not your guy."
Stick to your guns, brotha'!
+1
Joe Rogers