# 1 - You should expect photography for free because all photographers do is hold up a camera and click. That doesn't sound like a skill, now does it? Anyone with an Iphone can do the same exact thing. Solution: Get someone with an Iphone to do your photo session. Problem = SOLVED.
# 2 - You should expect photography for free because you're the one helping the photographer out by modeling for his/her portfolio. I mean, you are so influential in town, that the photographer could never succeed without namedropping you. Solution: Get a photographer who actually appreciates his or her portfolio work to do your session. Maybe even consider the original guy with the Iphone. Problem = SOLVED.
#3 - You should expect photography for free because it's digital. You're not getting prints so what are you actually even paying for? It's just as quick to send someone a text message as it is to send them 100 8 megabite .jpg files. I mean it must take 5 minutes max from the camera to the client anyways. Solution: Get your cousin's friend's Uncle Bob to do your photo session because he's actually a nice guy and will do it for free. Thank goodness there are still people out there in the world who have an ounce of kindness left. Problem = SOLVED.
#4 - You should expect photography for free because you're friend does it. If your friend is REALLY your friend they will take a cut for a day and not get paid what they are worth because your dog's birthday photo session is more important than their rent, food, or entertainment for the week. Friends always show their true colors when it comes to priorities. Solution: Ditch that friend and find a new photographer friend on Craigslist. Problem = SOLVED.
#5 - You should expect photography for free because you're just "hanging out" and it's convienient for that photographer to photograph during that time. We all know photographers LOVE to photograph, so when they're going to be at an event, getting them to do what they love should be free. They're going to have just as much fun walking around taking photos of everything in site & being your personal paparazzi at beck and call as they would actually relaxing and enjoying the company of others with no agendas. Solution: Don't even bother inviting them if they're not bringing their camera. Besides, they're pretty dull otherwise. Problem = SOLVED.
Disclaimer: This post may have been slightly sarcastic... But it's important, no it's VERY important that we as photographers stand up for ourselves and stop feeling neglected, under appreciated, unworthy, and unimportant when it comes to our work.
It's also VERY important that we learn to say "no" sometimes. Charity work is great. Do it sometimes. Trade work is great. Do that sometimes. Photographing your family is great. By all means, do that sometimes. BUT, getting paid is great too AND it allows you to invest in your business to learn and grow your skills! I'm still learning to balance these things out each week, but I've learned to say "No" sometimes and for that I'm proud :)
No comments:
Post a Comment