I’ve been asked to quote for a number of assignments recently, where the would-be client has approached me with something along the lines of:
“We need photographs of X. How much will it cost?”
Sadly, that’s not an over-simplification of their enquiries – it’s basically the full extent of their opening gambits.
Whilst it’s a good place to start, clearly it’s not enough detail to tell me what is actually required from a photo shoot I undertake with them.
A quick glance over their websites, Facebook pages, Instagram feeds etc gives me a good general idea of what they offer. Let’s call this background info, but…
There is so much more to consider ahead of producing a set of pictures.
Here are a few general pointers that you might like to bear in mind if you’re looking to commission some photography:
1. What needs photographing, exactly? The more specific you can be, the better. e.g. Portraits – how many people? Products – how many and in how much detail?
2. Where are the pictures to be taken? e.g. single/multiple locations (web link/postcodes would be ideal).
3. Are you looking for studio-style imagery or pictures taken on location?
4. What date is preferential and how urgent are the pictures? (this allows me to immediately check my availability and block out the necessary post-production time).
5. How long do you anticipate needing me on site – a half-/whole day, multiple days etc.
6. Are there any other details or requirements I should be aware of? e.g. logistical considerations.
Compiling the above should take just a minute or two, but will save me a lot of time when I’m putting your quote together.
Whilst it’s often possible to give a ballpark figure in the first instance, it stands to reason that with more information comes a more accurate/tailored price.
A final thought: Always remember that you should never be afraid to ask questions in order to help you give the information that’s required.
As the old cliché goes:
The more information you provide to begin with, the better.
