the pricing thing is spot on and it works for almost every self employed person. giving packages and exact prices upfront automatically limits your sales
@Shatha AlMazrou I don't agree that it saves time in answering that question. It leads to people not calling you because they already know your prices and you have no chance to "sell" them on why they should go with you. It's about the sale.
LaVonte' Hill Your opening sentence is grammar limited."Art Is A Breath Of New Life Inhale To Escape" wtf does that mean? (not a good first impression)
I know it's hard when you first get started LaVonte' Hill , but be sure feature only your best photos. I know you might feel the desire to throw extras in to show some more examples...but stick to the best. Each of your galleries have a few that are just fine...but also a few that could probably be removed...in my humble opinion. Keep at it...just the fact that you're looking for a critique shows a desire to improve, which is the most important aspect of the process!
tytlyf it's two thoughts put in to one statement without a needed break i will correct the grammatical issues displayed. But, don't be disrespectful it's about improvement not confusion thanks
As someone who is in the process of planning a wedding, please put a basic package and price on your site. You can include a list of all the extras sans price, but if there isn't a base price, you're going to the bottom of the list. I simply don't have the time or the will to reach out and negotiate with every potential venue, caterer, photographer, etc. I'm only going to contact companies that there is a realistic possibility that I can hire. Ultimately, if your base price is above my budget, you won't make the sale no matter how good a photographer you are or how great a salesman you are.
I agree. I think Jared often forgets to look at things from a perspective other than a successful professional photographer. Many people have a strict budget that can't be stretched just because you are a good salesman. Give them the basic prices,and let them decide.
I think people have the right to know the prices before calling. It saves so much time for photographers simply because they won't keep answering people who couldn't afford or didn't ask for the price first.
I have to disagree. People contact me because they don't know my prices. This gives me opportunity to open a dialogue and show my personality a bit and ask them a few questions. This usually gets them to set up a consultation unless I'm totally out of their budget.
I refuse to waste my time with anyone that doesnt have any pricing or even base pricing. A smart idea is to give base pricing aswell as pricing for the more common or popular things like photo books, digital aswelll as physical copies etc but encourage a discussion on prices for custom packages
I don't put a "starting price", because imho its a little vague. So i put a PRICE on a basic package (instead of a starting price, because its more visually presentable), from there if the client wants to add outdoor photoshoot, more albums, etc will have to add cost....I choose this method because its more interactive from the clients pov. I think this is better than "a starting price of xxxx"
Unlike a lot of people on RUclips, this advice is unbelievably useful and will help a lot of people. Thanks for putting the effort into giving such constructive and helpful feedback so people can improve Jared.
One of the few times I dont agree with Jared. Ill rather put the price up and not speak to 500 people during the year who will not hire me because of price. People that do contact are 90% almost sure to hire me
I think perhaps the water mark on some and not on some is the same problem I had in the beginning. At first, as a newbie to the photography world, I saw other people had their watermark on their photos so I did too. As time went on and I got more professional, I decided to ditch the watermark, but I really didn't want to go back and re-upload all my photos without the watermark because I had also sized them for the website to something closer to the 2000's instead of the full size. Now I am so busy with client pictures, I don't really have time to go back and remove all the watermarked photos and resize the originals. It's just a hassle and honestly, if your photos are good, people don't care about a watermark or not. Does it look as professional, no, but if everything else besides that is good-then this little detail won't make much difference. That's just my opinion. :)
Watermarks in photography are really nothing more than advertising marks! There is no question as if it makes a photog look professional to leave it off. If added it screams amateur! Further, they are nothing more than a distraction, hence an advertising mark that most are further ripping off their clients asking them to not just pay for one's services and low quality images, but then advertising too! When I started out I never used them. I only use them in certain commercial applications.
The whole thing can be summed up as follows: 1) there are people on a budget who care about the price first. Usually they have a low budget or are obsessive sujects planning every cent they are going to spend. They will not even consider you unless you list your prices in your website. But that's not a problem, as you don't want them as clients. 2) there are people searching for a solution to their needs. They think about the price as a secondary matter. That's why they are not on a budget or they feel comfortable enough with the price range they do expect for the solution of their problem and give their attention firts to finding the solution that best fits their needs. They will contact you and ask for many things and also for the price. These are the clients you want. Totally agree with Jared.
Great advise Jared. "Starting at" has always worked great for both my businesses. It's a good way to get in touch with your client and show them what you're all about.
I have squarespace for over a year love it , now im going to setup a squarespace for my dads roofing business . for fathers day .. cant go wrong but te images look amazing using squarespace
Didn't realize this video is 3 years old. I follow and love your videos but I would like to make a note that times have changed and the culture of photography has changed from the consumer's perspective. Immediate gratification and competition have changed how people shop around. I would encourage people to check out other videos and blogs about this topic in 2018 while also utilitzing the strategies presented in the video. The tax suggestion is great!
Someone asking you "how much for a wedding shoot" is like a guy walking into a car dealership asking "how much for a car?". Some weddings are X, some weddings are Y. It depends on too many variables. IF you're going to put a 'starting price' on your website, also mention what that would include. Like "6 hours photography, 150 hi-res images, within 40 miles radius from [yourtown], album not included.". For some people that can very well be enough. Others, who think this package is reasonably priced, while it's too limited for what they want, will have a rough idea of your rates and may contact you for more information and a quote for their idea of the wedding shoot.
the term "drive away, no more to pay" comes to mind.... the motor veichle industry openly advertise base pricing.... at least here in Australia. That doesnt mean customer's don't end up buying the fancy rims and leather seats.
Very interesting and helpful critique. I googled his website because I wanted to see what gear was in his bag to be honest, and it looks like he has taken most of your advice. The website looks much easier to navigate than in your video and much more engaging.
Love the tips you're giving in this vid. They all make sense, especially the part about the pricing. Doing photography for a living requires more than just photographic skills. When you talk to a client, even if they don't book you, you get to set a foundation for future business. Sales is all about personality. If the potential client likes you as a person, you'll have a better chance of them booking you. Keep up the good work, love your content!
As a Photographer I agree with you. As a future bride I disagree! I did a bit of hunting before hiring a photographer, and it helped to know the photographers price because I didn't want to waste their time or my time contacting them! I eventually did message a few photographers who I really liked and who didn't list prices, but I hated telling them I went with someone else in the end, it would have saved time and I wouldn't have gotten their hopes up as a potential client!
So it's just over a year later and Iv'e just seen this video. Out of interest I had a look at the website & I see Kevin has taken on much of the constructive advice. The website was nice before but now looks much more polished :-)
That's the one thing I hate about shopping in the US & Canada, VAT not included in price. Here in Ireland, you must display prices for anything whether it's a 10c sweet or a €5,000 tv, it must be inclusive of tax.
This is a gold mine for wedding photography pricing. My god am I sick of trying to explain my prices to people. I'm going to start taking your approach to pricing Fro!
Hi Jared, I agree with you : NEVER put prices on your website !! ( but a "starting" price is a good idea... ) I think people do that because they think they're not good as a sales person, so they're uncomfortable to do so... or they just don't know how to close a sale. so they think (hope ?) if a customer calls, he'll already agree with the package. big mistake...
I see your view on the prices but i cant tell you how many times i would interact with someone only to have them say "well we'll talk it over and get back with you". All that tells me is, i just wasted 10 mins to find out you cant afford me. Just my opinion
***** You didn't waste 10 min. You used it as an opportunity to possibly make the sale. You wont win them all but if you ask what their budget is in an e mail you can start to qualify them.
i see your point, but this isnt my full time gig. i work at least 40 a week at my day job, have 3 kids, and toss in housework, music practice and just breathing. Im not trying to come off rude but if people are on the fence i dont have 2-3hrs a night to reply to emails and phonecalls to try and coax them into a shoot. We shoot 2, 3 maybe 4 times a month, if we dont have a shoot i wont starve. but i can understand the "salesman" part if this is your whole income. btw i shave my head not cause i choose too but cause i have the tree ring thing, so i live my hair through you. FRO ON!
Ive just had my first wedding request and I know i've made a boo boo and could have lost them within a few sentences. First mistake was telling them it was my first booking for a wedding thinking I need to be honest with them. Then when they said they would like to meet to see more of my portfolio i agreed that would be great then I kerpowed them with an all in price for the day. It was a reasonable rate to be fair but they instantly went quiet and when i reached out they said they were waiting on other quotes. I could of got a hammer to my head when i did it, hopefully they will get more quotes and realise I am reasonable but I have lost the ability to charm them with my lovely personality in person to seal the deal. This makes sense Jarard especially when starting out because I need the portfolio and experience and Its harder to negotiate by online messaging. The reason they were attracted to me was due to another shoot I did which had great response and they liked my style but Im thinking that most people first looking for prices don't realise how much weddings cost so if you are the first one you need to make them believe its worth every penny.
thankyou so much for this effort you make here on youtube and all the help you provide for free, i know exactly how hard it is to make these videos !!!
Have to say Jared your "no online pricing" ,makes so much sense. This guy had really great photo's but the second he priced it I felt he might be pricing himself out of potential jobs. Great video I been into photography for less than a year. (D3200, Nik 1.8f 35mm, Nik 18-55mm, Nik 55-300mm) I have my first paid event next Friday! It is for my Uni but a pretty semi casual event. Just invested in a iTTl flash from neewer. love it I have a website but don't want to push shit on our good community.. If I had to pick a moment out of all the videos of yours I would pick that great photo you took at a massive indoor mucic performance. when you managed to get everyone in frame (you were up top looking inwards)
I would tend to agree with your comment about the watermarks on the website and i had my images without watermarks before on my page but then I started putting them on and started replacing all the images with watermarked ones because the piracy in my country is a real pain.. Here in Trinidad, people have no remorse they just take it and repost it with no credit.. some even go as far as cropping your watermark then adding their own.. This way i at least have the image on my site with the watermark to say hey i took this photo here's the proof. I prevented right clicks on my site but people can still drag images off my page.
Who cares! Regardless of where you are in the world, we all use and copy things, or we revamp things to make them better! Watch this video SilverTurky as it shows a metal worker here in the USA who bought a metal brake and then upgrades it... another company's design and product. So is it infringement? No! He bought the item and he can now do whatever he wants with it. That is the problem with photographers... the lack mentality
that was very educational to say the least. I looked at Kevin's web site and it looks like he took your advice to heart and changed his web site as per your critique.
Hah! This reminds me why I wasn't able to do photography so many years ago. I was terrible at business. Weddings for $100? Sure! lol. I've always had a hard time charging people for the photos... Even if they're great shots..
that was one of the fewest good videos of you in a long time. please keep doing videos like this and stop posting informatials and 30mins of plugs in raw talk. thanks
sepehr jamali Hi, you're wrong thanks. Did you see the 1 hour 5 min portrait form last week or did you miss it? And if you didn't notice this was a video that had a plug for squarespace in it, miss that?
No i miss the portrait one. I'm going to watch it now. Yes I know you made a plug for squarespace but your presentation was different and it didn't seem that you are trying to over sell it to us. I'm watching you for few years and recently I realised your plugs sometimes seems excessive. That's all. But I understand you need sponsors and I always supported you, but please try to do your plugs more smoothly and also compare it to other choices, like what you did by comparing squarespace with smugmug.
At one time I didn't like, or understand, why someone wouldn't list the prices on their site for whatever. Now that I'm taking photography more seriously, and I want to do this as a business where I'm making money, I totally get it. If you list your prices then you're just giving them a chance to walk away. If your work looks good, they'll contact you, then you can work on a price. You can still have your set prices, but if they can't afford what you're offering, then you can work with them. If they see what you're offering on the site though, they may just going to say screw it. This guy isn't in my range. You may not get a chance to work with them on a price.
Jared Polin I understand about not putting your prices on the site. I don't put my priced on my site, but do you ever feel like asking their budget would make your client feel like you are just seeing how much money they are willing to spend and then changing your prices to match it? My reasoning behind this is only because there are many times where I havent heard back at all after trying to qualifying while asking budget and that has always been a fear. I have had much better luck in my sales within the last 6-9 months after just sending my price sheet to those contacting me in the initial email interaction.
Depends how you approach it. It gives you and them flexibility. Learn to make the sale and figure out what they do and don't want/need/can afford. Additionally it lets you adjust. Would suck to send a pricing sheet and, say, lock in a a "pre-bridal session" for a fixed price then learn that the client wants a 2-hour pre-bridal session and not a half-hour one.
wow, thank you and i just dig this video and i think Jared should do more video like this again! i love your suggestion and i see a different angle from making a better web site.
The reason to list your gear is there are clients who know photography and would like to know what is your gear. I don't think it make sense asking for your gear. I'm just saying there are such clients.
I'm not a fan of in-your-face "watermarking" in general. I work with a guy that puts a bright white stamp on all his photos. I get a subtle WM that you color to match the photo, but I just don't feel as though the branding of the image is an effective form of advertisement.
Great critique Jared. Like the changes you have made Kevin only small thing is on the "Frequently asked questions" down the bottom where you have the why are you so awesome question there is a little typo at start of your answer ;) Love the photos by the way :)
Nathan Godwin Thanks Nathan! I did see that change actually and have made the adjustment. Thanks for the compliment as well. Photos are only going to get better from here!
Let me start with watermarks. Watermarks are used to define the original item or work. So, pay attention. If you shoot raw and then go in and post edit in any way, shape or form and then give the paying client a lessor quality image, a jpeg for example, then you should NEVER put a watermark on your image(s) as it is NOT the original! Therefore, they are nothing more than advertising marks. This is a major problem in our industry! So many learn from others and the there are a lot of shady photogs out there, who know a thing or two about cameras or photography but know little about business! This brings me to the copyright issue. Far too many make it more complexed than it needs to be. Regardless, of what mode you shoot in, you took the image and it is your work. If you alter it in any way in post, then again, it is not the original and leave your advertising marks OFF of your images! Now "IF" you are charging ANY amount of money for any photography service, go to your state's Secretary of State (if in the U.S) and register your business name! It is simple and low cost. Not to mention you can't get any more professional than than! Second, go to your state's Dept. of Taxation and get set up with them. If you are like most and charge without these two steps, then you just broke the law and are engaging in tax evasion as well as deceptive business practices. And to think you are worried someone is going to steal your images! Ha, ha, ha! Well I do fashion design as well as photography. Part of my business is buying large quantities of new unsold swimwear, fitness wear and a few others for pennies on the dollar. We disassemble them, redesign them, sew them back together with our label on them? So, for example, did I infringe? Is it still Victoria's Secret's design or mine? Here, check out this example. A RUclipsr bought a cheap metal break from Harbor Freight with the sole intentions to upgrade it.... (ruclips.net/video/385BQik9ugs/видео.html) So, did he infringe on their copyright? How many of you have bought a home and renovated, changing windows, siding, paint, floor coverings, roofing, etc. Wait! You just infringed on the builder's architect's or engineer's original design, vision and work! How dare you! How many of you own a car or truck and replaced say brakes, tires or other items with aftermarket parts that are cheaper than OEM parts? Guilty aren't you! But Lord forbid someone take one of your images in any format and alter in any way! If this is you than in my eyes, your a hypocrite! Jared has done an excellent job pointing out a lot of great things that Kevin was quick to make changes. One thing I will point out that Jared didn't and I didn't see other point out either is that Kevin has a lot of candid style moments captured for his clients. I cannot tell you just how frustrating it is to walk in to my friend's home's and see wedding pics with your damn advertising marks on then and they are crappy posed images. It is NOT your wedding and therefore it is NOT your work, nor is it your design! Keep that in mind! I have taken the law and went back to a dozen photogs who shot friends weddings and after they were charged ungodly amounts, we asked for a complete set of the raw images at no additional cost. Yes many baulk at first. But when we pointed out that the majority don't have a business license or registration, not set up with the Dept. of Taxation to pay taxes, which Jared points out... hopefully you paid attention! Plus, that they have violated number consumer protection laws in regards to complete estimates (which for example say you bought a used Nikon D800 online and are charging new prices and didn't list that, well...). You demanded a deposit up front without complying to that section of law and further had the paying client(s) sign a contract that YOU take tons of images, have a policy of never showing them any unedited images, not let the client pick any images, edit them your way, and blast you advertising mark all over them without citing in your contract that your client is paying for advertising via your watermark and the images they will receive are NOT the original images (raw for example) then that is considered a deceptive business practice that is one-sided in favor of you! It is illegal in Ohio as well as across the country thanks in part to what is known as the Uniform Code. Anyways, a few were reluctant and a few said Screw You until I helped my friends file lawsuits and then they handed them over. We went though and took the same images without their advertising marks, made picks that both the photog and my friends agreed upon and further made edits that both agreed upon. In the end everyone was happy! So when it comes to pricing. I'll give my views. When I a car shopping, I turn to auto sales magazines and websites. As a consumer, I don't want to be running all over town or the countryside and I sure in the hell don't want to spend all day on the phone calling about asking what the price is. We all know that in this case, if a price in not listed then they want too much and normally this is a sales ploy to give a you a wrath of crap in hopes to get you to buy. Samantha Swartz also points this out below. Don't buy into that crap that if you list your prices you will lose sales! What hog wash! Let me use Kevin's website as an example. Before Jared pointed out super helpful tips, prices listed or not, I would have passed Kevin up. After he made changes and regardless of pricing, I would have inquired because Kevin takes wedding images the way I think they should be! Very candid! Again, folks when it comes to weddings, it is NOT your day! Not your concept, design, styles, or ideas! It is the bride and groom's! Leave the watermarks the hell off of your images unless you are submitting them to a magazine or something similar! Watch Jared's videos where he does test shoots in 30 minutes with a host of camera bodies from entry level to top shelf. If you pay attention, he lightly directs shop owners to maybe hold a pose, slightly move, etc. That is real wedding photography 101, which now Kevin is on the right track! Lastly, people have budgets and smart ones will stick to those budgets, no matter how good of a salesman or photographer you are or are not. When it comes to sales, I offer and would encourage every photog to look up the PDF book of Wallace D. Wattles, The Science of Getting RIch. Pay special attention to chpt 6 "How Riches Come to You" - "Let us suppose that I own a picture by one of the great artists, which, in any civilized community, is worth thousands of dollars. I take it to Baffin Bay, and by "salesmanship" induce an Eskimo to give a bundle of furs worth $500 for it. I have really wronged him, for he has no use for the picture; it has no use value to him; it will not add to his life." "But suppose I give him a gun worth $50 for his furs; then he has made a good bargain. He has use for the gun; it will get him many more furs and much food; it will add to his life in every way; it will make him rich. " You may be a great photographer and/or salesman, but don't for a minute assume that everyone wants or needs your services, regardless of price points! Don't sell them things they don't need just so you can profit! If you go to the Northrup's channels and scroll down through their video, you will come across at least 6 videos where they push not stealing, copyrights as well as profiteering and price gouging. Tony has issues with Jared and look how many followers they have, who they are pushing a lot of the crap I pointed out above. What not to do! Watch Jared's other video of "Stop saying "INVESTMENT" For Wedding Photography!" I have yet to hear the Northrup's cover topics that Jared does in a realistic and sensible manner! If you are not making money and worried about watermarks, copyrights and all of that jazz, head over to the Northrup's channel and they will fill with their hidden agenda crap!
hey bro a water mark is a double edge weapon ... the water mark can destroy the perfect image, u have to know how to use it .. the position of the mark can create a distraction in the photo making the visual tour disrupted, as a page like that u dont have to make mark in just 3 images then the next 5 dont.. the order is really important for the client even if you spam your name around the page. Is a desition put water mark or dont. If u put it then copy out of the image. If u dont... just good.
wow, the FRO just mauled that guy's website! that's what happens when you send stuff to the Fro,people!! don't send your stuff if you can't handle the pain! gotta say i'm addicted to this channel. i won't be sending my photos anytime soon though.
chris gomez He didn't maul it, he gave good, constructive feedback. Most of the stuff on there is good, it's just the way he's presented some of it. The quality of the work only speaks for itself so far, as good as it is. People working for themselves tend to be good at the thing they're getting paid for, but not necessarily good at actually managing and marketing the thing. Their skills lie elsewhere. Having this kind of feedback is only going to help him in the long run. You tend to live within a bubble when you work for yourself because nobody else is around to question or challenge your decisions.
chris gomez I wouldn't call it a mauling actually. I call it a wake up call. He asked a few months ago about squarespace pages, and I sent mine in. I didn't know he was doing a video til he called me yesterday, and we spoke before it went live. Now I know what I needed to do, i made the changes, and will hope for a change as well. It boosted my confidence as well.
i stand corrected. what i like about jared is that he calls it the way he sees it, and that professional honesty is what helps us improve. btw, loved your photos, kevin!!
Pick a price, then triple it. THAT'S what you post onsite. Too many barrel-scrapers out there, the only difference is how much you're worth, and thats a figure YOU DECIDE ro give yourself.
Hello. I would not even recommend to advertise your prices on the internet: if people are interested in a wedding photographer, they can call and then we can negotiate prices. Why not advertising prices? For one it might not fit the budget of the person in question therefore the person won't even call you, and two competition will take advantage of your prices to lower theirs by just an inch. For my case, I don't even run a website, I just go with word of mouth, and my portfolio is on a book and I am still in business. Maybe one day I will advertise my own website ^_^ Also for wedding photography prices, it goes from a few hundreds bucks to a few thousands of dollars, and the job assignments with a few thousands of dollars are tough because you have to negotiate back and forth (until you say "Sorry I can't do it for that price, I would recommend you to go with another photographer"). Take care guys.
you had a couple of videos i think that have subtitles in them. but most of your videos arent. why? im interested to learn more but not many videos have subtitles.
you list your price tat gives people time to haggle the price down , were you should lower the price looking like they are getting the deal but infact your getting what you want .
The prices for weddings are really crazy, don't you think? I wonder what the situation is in the rest of the world... Because where I live, if you spend like 300$ you get above average quality...
Martin Blass Your local market must either be extremely saturated or they're seen as nothing more than a few extra pennies for a day's worth on top of the jobs that bring in the real money. Weddings are crazy expensive in my experience in my part of the UK. You can spend many thousands on it.
In the south east of the US where I'm at 300 to 500 is average for the typical expected wedding day. I know people who have paid 200 and some who have dropped 4k. But yeah the average is low because every one and their brother is buying a camera and offering too cheap
Martin Blass I'm getting married in Indonesia. For about 1500 US $ I have a crew of 3 photographers, 2 videographers, 2 assistants working for one full day + mini studio for the reception, photo books, DVD with edited video. It's a good price for excellent photography considering in Indonesia normally you can pay 2500 US $ for the same package. There's amazing photographers in South East Asia. Mine is called Namora Pictures. Check their work!And BTW where I live now in Belgium I'd say for the same price I'd only get one photographer :D
Southeast COG Videos 300 to 500 for a wedding in the USA? haha, no i dont think so. There is a difference between getting a professional to shoot the wedding and getting a friend who is an amateur who thinks they are a professional. weddings typically start from around $1500 and can range to $5000 just for photography. Everything in weddings is expensive. You can expect to pay up to $2000 just for flowers. There is more to just turning up and pressing the shutter button. Lots of time=lots of photos= lots of editing.
+yomega brain how many hours do you think? My understanding is usually they only do post-processing on a set of key images. I would have thought it would be something like 8 hours for the event and 4 hours processing. $1500 seems steep for a basic package without an assistant to me.... unless my estimate of time is off
im NOT a wedding photographer, sticking mainly to sports and more industrial/technical photography.. could someone please explain how a photo/party booth works? is there someone there (extra photographer?) shooting those images? is there a remotely controlled camera like those 4-photo strip booths in the mall? very curious about those...
Colin Todd That's correct, they can't buy prints from there. That's why I suggested SmugMug for that option. I think smugmug sites are horrid but their selling capability is fantastic. There is a partnership between the two companies any way.
+Jared Polin What are your thoughts on Zenfolio? Lots of local pros use it. It seems to be best for actually selling stuff...which is all that really counts....
Juliet Alpha Kilo Echo If they want to steal it they will anyway, watermark or not. A few moments in Photoshop (likely also stolen lol) can fix that if they're that interested in it but still don't want to pay.
At the end of the day, the photographers with the wanted images are to good ones. And those who steal it are the jealous unskilled ones. That's how I see it. I cant imagine stealing someone else's photos, I don't even like to repost on my IG/flickr/twitter pages.
Jared Polin how does one start actually doing this in terms of tax and uncle sam. (Im currently working on a squarespace, logo/brand design, and business cards. But what do you do about shipping? Creating cool albums like one in one of your vids an 8x12? My customer base is my entire campus and orgs, events, greek life, even university officials if they want an event photographed.
benjamin w Yes. Yes they are. At the end of the day though no matter how much you spend on everything else, the person taking the pictures and/or video of the day is the stuff you'll have forever as a record of the day, so you want it done well. That generally means paying well for it too.
This could backfire. I will walk away from any product or service if I can't get a straight answer about price. I'm not the only one.
the pricing thing is spot on and it works for almost every self employed person. giving packages and exact prices upfront automatically limits your sales
@Shatha AlMazrou I don't agree that it saves time in answering that question. It leads to people not calling you because they already know your prices and you have no chance to "sell" them on why they should go with you. It's about the sale.
I would love to get a critique on my site avcphoto.com
LaVonte' Hill Your opening sentence is grammar limited."Art Is A Breath Of New Life Inhale To Escape"
wtf does that mean? (not a good first impression)
I know it's hard when you first get started LaVonte' Hill , but be sure feature only your best photos. I know you might feel the desire to throw extras in to show some more examples...but stick to the best. Each of your galleries have a few that are just fine...but also a few that could probably be removed...in my humble opinion.
Keep at it...just the fact that you're looking for a critique shows a desire to improve, which is the most important aspect of the process!
tytlyf it's two thoughts put in to one statement without a needed break i will correct the grammatical issues displayed. But, don't be disrespectful it's about improvement not confusion thanks
digitalartwerks thank you sir
As someone who is in the process of planning a wedding, please put a basic package and price on your site. You can include a list of all the extras sans price, but if there isn't a base price, you're going to the bottom of the list. I simply don't have the time or the will to reach out and negotiate with every potential venue, caterer, photographer, etc. I'm only going to contact companies that there is a realistic possibility that I can hire. Ultimately, if your base price is above my budget, you won't make the sale no matter how good a photographer you are or how great a salesman you are.
I agree. I think Jared often forgets to look at things from a perspective other than a successful professional photographer. Many people have a strict budget that can't be stretched just because you are a good salesman. Give them the basic prices,and let them decide.
I think people have the right to know the prices before calling. It saves so much time for photographers simply because they won't keep answering people who couldn't afford or didn't ask for the price first.
I have to disagree. People contact me because they don't know my prices. This gives me opportunity to open a dialogue and show my personality a bit and ask them a few questions. This usually gets them to set up a consultation unless I'm totally out of their budget.
lol I checked his webpage and he changed everything straight away
KtmDesignz I don't mess around ;)
kevin kramer Haha, I see, good job ;)
haha, that's awesome!
I refuse to waste my time with anyone that doesnt have any pricing or even base pricing. A smart idea is to give base pricing aswell as pricing for the more common or popular things like photo books, digital aswelll as physical copies etc but encourage a discussion on prices for custom packages
I don't put a "starting price", because imho its a little vague. So i put a PRICE on a basic package (instead of a starting price, because its more visually presentable), from there if the client wants to add outdoor photoshoot, more albums, etc will have to add cost....I choose this method because its more interactive from the clients pov.
I think this is better than "a starting price of xxxx"
Unlike a lot of people on RUclips, this advice is unbelievably useful and will help a lot of people. Thanks for putting the effort into giving such constructive and helpful feedback so people can improve Jared.
Kevin took a lot of what you said to heart, I'm viewing his site three days after you uploaded the video and the site has been changed.
One of the few times I dont agree with Jared. Ill rather put the price up and not speak to 500 people during the year who will not hire me because of price. People that do contact are 90% almost sure to hire me
agreed. Just because a stratergy works for your local market, doesn't mean it will be successful every where you take it.
I love that you pointed out the first person third person deal. It absolutely ticks me off when someone can't structure a paragraph properly.
I think perhaps the water mark on some and not on some is the same problem I had in the beginning. At first, as a newbie to the photography world, I saw other people had their watermark on their photos so I did too. As time went on and I got more professional, I decided to ditch the watermark, but I really didn't want to go back and re-upload all my photos without the watermark because I had also sized them for the website to something closer to the 2000's instead of the full size. Now I am so busy with client pictures, I don't really have time to go back and remove all the watermarked photos and resize the originals. It's just a hassle and honestly, if your photos are good, people don't care about a watermark or not. Does it look as professional, no, but if everything else besides that is good-then this little detail won't make much difference. That's just my opinion. :)
Watermarks in photography are really nothing more than advertising marks! There is no question as if it makes a photog look professional to leave it off. If added it screams amateur! Further, they are nothing more than a distraction, hence an advertising mark that most are further ripping off their clients asking them to not just pay for one's services and low quality images, but then advertising too! When I started out I never used them. I only use them in certain commercial applications.
The whole thing can be summed up as follows: 1) there are people on a budget who care about the price first. Usually they have a low budget or are obsessive sujects planning every cent they are going to spend. They will not even consider you unless you list your prices in your website. But that's not a problem, as you don't want them as clients. 2) there are people searching for a solution to their needs. They think about the price as a secondary matter. That's why they are not on a budget or they feel comfortable enough with the price range they do expect for the solution of their problem and give their attention firts to finding the solution that best fits their needs. They will contact you and ask for many things and also for the price. These are the clients you want. Totally agree with Jared.
Great advise Jared. "Starting at" has always worked great for both my businesses. It's a good way to get in touch with your client and show them what you're all about.
Awesome advice Jared - I've been in the video world and anyone who lists prices on the web is always hurting themselves.
+Filmmaker IQ Oh hey it's filmmaker IQ! Didn't expect to see you here.
I have squarespace for over a year love it , now im going to setup a squarespace for my dads roofing business . for fathers day .. cant go wrong but te images look amazing using squarespace
paul best sweet, use my code!!!
Jared Polin I sure will
Didn't realize this video is 3 years old. I follow and love your videos but I would like to make a note that times have changed and the culture of photography has changed from the consumer's perspective. Immediate gratification and competition have changed how people shop around. I would encourage people to check out other videos and blogs about this topic in 2018 while also utilitzing the strategies presented in the video. The tax suggestion is great!
Someone asking you "how much for a wedding shoot" is like a guy walking into a car dealership asking "how much for a car?".
Some weddings are X, some weddings are Y. It depends on too many variables. IF you're going to put a 'starting price' on your website, also mention what that would include. Like "6 hours photography, 150 hi-res images, within 40 miles radius from [yourtown], album not included.". For some people that can very well be enough. Others, who think this package is reasonably priced, while it's too limited for what they want, will have a rough idea of your rates and may contact you for more information and a quote for their idea of the wedding shoot.
the term "drive away, no more to pay" comes to mind.... the motor veichle industry openly advertise base pricing.... at least here in Australia.
That doesnt mean customer's don't end up buying the fancy rims and leather seats.
Very interesting and helpful critique. I googled his website because I wanted to see what gear was in his bag to be honest, and it looks like he has taken most of your advice. The website looks much easier to navigate than in your video and much more engaging.
Love the tips you're giving in this vid. They all make sense, especially the part about the pricing. Doing photography for a living requires more than just photographic skills. When you talk to a client, even if they don't book you, you get to set a foundation for future business. Sales is all about personality. If the potential client likes you as a person, you'll have a better chance of them booking you. Keep up the good work, love your content!
As a Photographer I agree with you. As a future bride I disagree! I did a bit of hunting before hiring a photographer, and it helped to know the photographers price because I didn't want to waste their time or my time contacting them! I eventually did message a few photographers who I really liked and who didn't list prices, but I hated telling them I went with someone else in the end, it would have saved time and I wouldn't have gotten their hopes up as a potential client!
Love your current set up! Turning around to chat to the camera really keeps the videos dynamic and interesting! Great advice too!
So it's just over a year later and Iv'e just seen this video. Out of interest I had a look at the website & I see Kevin has taken on much of the constructive advice. The website was nice before but now looks much more polished :-)
That's the one thing I hate about shopping in the US & Canada, VAT not included in price. Here in Ireland, you must display prices for anything whether it's a 10c sweet or a €5,000 tv, it must be inclusive of tax.
This is a gold mine for wedding photography pricing. My god am I sick of trying to explain my prices to people. I'm going to start taking your approach to pricing Fro!
Hi Jared, I agree with you : NEVER put prices on your website !! ( but a "starting" price is a good idea... )
I think people do that because they think they're not good as a sales person, so they're uncomfortable to do so... or they just don't know how to close a sale.
so they think (hope ?) if a customer calls, he'll already agree with the package. big mistake...
I see your view on the prices but i cant tell you how many times i would interact with someone only to have them say "well we'll talk it over and get back with you". All that tells me is, i just wasted 10 mins to find out you cant afford me. Just my opinion
***** You didn't waste 10 min. You used it as an opportunity to possibly make the sale. You wont win them all but if you ask what their budget is in an e mail you can start to qualify them.
i see your point, but this isnt my full time gig. i work at least 40 a week at my day job, have 3 kids, and toss in housework, music practice and just breathing. Im not trying to come off rude but if people are on the fence i dont have 2-3hrs a night to reply to emails and phonecalls to try and coax them into a shoot. We shoot 2, 3 maybe 4 times a month, if we dont have a shoot i wont starve. but i can understand the "salesman" part if this is your whole income. btw i shave my head not cause i choose too but cause i have the tree ring thing, so i live my hair through you. FRO ON!
Ive just had my first wedding request and I know i've made a boo boo and could have lost them within a few sentences. First mistake was telling them it was my first booking for a wedding thinking I need to be honest with them. Then when they said they would like to meet to see more of my portfolio i agreed that would be great then I kerpowed them with an all in price for the day. It was a reasonable rate to be fair but they instantly went quiet and when i reached out they said they were waiting on other quotes. I could of got a hammer to my head when i did it, hopefully they will get more quotes and realise I am reasonable but I have lost the ability to charm them with my lovely personality in person to seal the deal. This makes sense Jarard especially when starting out because I need the portfolio and experience and Its harder to negotiate by online messaging. The reason they were attracted to me was due to another shoot I did which had great response and they liked my style but Im thinking that most people first looking for prices don't realise how much weddings cost so if you are the first one you need to make them believe its worth every penny.
thankyou so much for this effort you make here on youtube and all the help you provide for free, i know exactly how hard it is to make these videos !!!
Have to say Jared your "no online pricing" ,makes so much sense. This guy had really great photo's but the second he priced it I felt he might be pricing himself out of potential jobs.
Great video
I been into photography for less than a year. (D3200, Nik 1.8f 35mm, Nik 18-55mm, Nik 55-300mm)
I have my first paid event next Friday! It is for my Uni but a pretty semi casual event. Just invested in a iTTl flash from neewer. love it
I have a website but don't want to push shit on our good community..
If I had to pick a moment out of all the videos of yours I would pick that great photo you took at a massive indoor mucic performance. when you managed to get everyone in frame (you were up top looking inwards)
Winstan ARE YOU STILL IM THE BUSINESS???
Are you still a photographer?
I would tend to agree with your comment about the watermarks on the website and i had my images without watermarks before on my page but then I started putting them on and started replacing all the images with watermarked ones because the piracy in my country is a real pain.. Here in Trinidad, people have no remorse they just take it and repost it with no credit.. some even go as far as cropping your watermark then adding their own.. This way i at least have the image on my site with the watermark to say hey i took this photo here's the proof. I prevented right clicks on my site but people can still drag images off my page.
Who cares! Regardless of where you are in the world, we all use and copy things, or we revamp things to make them better! Watch this video SilverTurky as it shows a metal worker here in the USA who bought a metal brake and then upgrades it... another company's design and product. So is it infringement? No! He bought the item and he can now do whatever he wants with it. That is the problem with photographers... the lack mentality
Kevin has genuinely changed his website given all the pointed and it's alot better more professional looking
that was very educational to say the least. I looked at Kevin's web site and it looks like he took your advice to heart and changed his web site as per your critique.
I like how your hair makes a colour gradient from dark to light.
Hah! This reminds me why I wasn't able to do photography so many years ago. I was terrible at business. Weddings for $100? Sure! lol. I've always had a hard time charging people for the photos... Even if they're great shots..
that was one of the fewest good videos of you in a long time. please keep doing videos like this and stop posting informatials and 30mins of plugs in raw talk. thanks
sepehr jamali Hi, you're wrong thanks. Did you see the 1 hour 5 min portrait form last week or did you miss it? And if you didn't notice this was a video that had a plug for squarespace in it, miss that?
No i miss the portrait one. I'm going to watch it now. Yes I know you made a plug for squarespace but your presentation was different and it didn't seem that you are trying to over sell it to us. I'm watching you for few years and recently I realised your plugs sometimes seems excessive. That's all. But I understand you need sponsors and I always supported you, but please try to do your plugs more smoothly and also compare it to other choices, like what you did by comparing squarespace with smugmug.
sepehr jamali Plugs = more shooting videos. No plugs equals not being able to do that. It's all free for you.
+Eccentric Smithy poor you.
You're getting really good with marketing Jared. All the best!
At one time I didn't like, or understand, why someone wouldn't list the prices on their site for whatever. Now that I'm taking photography more seriously, and I want to do this as a business where I'm making money, I totally get it. If you list your prices then you're just giving them a chance to walk away. If your work looks good, they'll contact you, then you can work on a price. You can still have your set prices, but if they can't afford what you're offering, then you can work with them. If they see what you're offering on the site though, they may just going to say screw it. This guy isn't in my range. You may not get a chance to work with them on a price.
Jared Polin I understand about not putting your prices on the site. I don't put my priced on my site, but do you ever feel like asking their budget would make your client feel like you are just seeing how much money they are willing to spend and then changing your prices to match it? My reasoning behind this is only because there are many times where I havent heard back at all after trying to qualifying while asking budget and that has always been a fear. I have had much better luck in my sales within the last 6-9 months after just sending my price sheet to those contacting me in the initial email interaction.
Depends how you approach it. It gives you and them flexibility. Learn to make the sale and figure out what they do and don't want/need/can afford. Additionally it lets you adjust. Would suck to send a pricing sheet and, say, lock in a a "pre-bridal session" for a fixed price then learn that the client wants a 2-hour pre-bridal session and not a half-hour one.
You definitely know your stuff man!
wow, thank you and i just dig this video and i think Jared should do more video like this again! i love your suggestion and i see a different angle from making a better web site.
The title is enough for the recognition part, don't feel like it's need repetiously through the work
The reason to list your gear is there are clients who know photography and would like to know what is your gear. I don't think it make sense asking for your gear. I'm just saying there are such clients.
gear doesnt matter if they can see quality images
the black line under the image is a shadow...😒😒😒😒
This was a very informative video. Well done and well worth watching.
I think it's all about being flexible for different people and also selling it
Haha Its stuck in my head. Fronosphooootoooo!!!!!!!
Thanks Jared. Lots of tips for my own site.
Thank you so much for this Fro. Awesome advice.
Jawad Saleem
wow! Amazing info on this video Jared. Thanks for guidance!
I'm not a fan of in-your-face "watermarking" in general. I work with a guy that puts a bright white stamp on all his photos. I get a subtle WM that you color to match the photo, but I just don't feel as though the branding of the image is an effective form of advertisement.
Great critique Jared. Like the changes you have made Kevin only small thing is on the "Frequently asked questions" down the bottom where you have the why are you so awesome question there is a little typo at start of your answer ;)
Love the photos by the way :)
Nathan Godwin Thanks Nathan! I did see that change actually and have made the adjustment. Thanks for the compliment as well. Photos are only going to get better from here!
***** Thanks for the heads up! I will defiantly go ahead and do that! Thanks!
Let me start with watermarks. Watermarks are used to define the original item or work. So, pay attention. If you shoot raw and then go in and post edit in any way, shape or form and then give the paying client a lessor quality image, a jpeg for example, then you should NEVER put a watermark on your image(s) as it is NOT the original! Therefore, they are nothing more than advertising marks. This is a major problem in our industry! So many learn from others and the there are a lot of shady photogs out there, who know a thing or two about cameras or photography but know little about business! This brings me to the copyright issue. Far too many make it more complexed than it needs to be. Regardless, of what mode you shoot in, you took the image and it is your work. If you alter it in any way in post, then again, it is not the original and leave your advertising marks OFF of your images! Now "IF" you are charging ANY amount of money for any photography service, go to your state's Secretary of State (if in the U.S) and register your business name! It is simple and low cost. Not to mention you can't get any more professional than than! Second, go to your state's Dept. of Taxation and get set up with them. If you are like most and charge without these two steps, then you just broke the law and are engaging in tax evasion as well as deceptive business practices. And to think you are worried someone is going to steal your images! Ha, ha, ha! Well I do fashion design as well as photography. Part of my business is buying large quantities of new unsold swimwear, fitness wear and a few others for pennies on the dollar. We disassemble them, redesign them, sew them back together with our label on them? So, for example, did I infringe? Is it still Victoria's Secret's design or mine? Here, check out this example. A RUclipsr bought a cheap metal break from Harbor Freight with the sole intentions to upgrade it.... (ruclips.net/video/385BQik9ugs/видео.html) So, did he infringe on their copyright? How many of you have bought a home and renovated, changing windows, siding, paint, floor coverings, roofing, etc. Wait! You just infringed on the builder's architect's or engineer's original design, vision and work! How dare you! How many of you own a car or truck and replaced say brakes, tires or other items with aftermarket parts that are cheaper than OEM parts? Guilty aren't you! But Lord forbid someone take one of your images in any format and alter in any way! If this is you than in my eyes, your a hypocrite!
Jared has done an excellent job pointing out a lot of great things that Kevin was quick to make changes. One thing I will point out that Jared didn't and I didn't see other point out either is that Kevin has a lot of candid style moments captured for his clients. I cannot tell you just how frustrating it is to walk in to my friend's home's and see wedding pics with your damn advertising marks on then and they are crappy posed images. It is NOT your wedding and therefore it is NOT your work, nor is it your design! Keep that in mind! I have taken the law and went back to a dozen photogs who shot friends weddings and after they were charged ungodly amounts, we asked for a complete set of the raw images at no additional cost. Yes many baulk at first. But when we pointed out that the majority don't have a business license or registration, not set up with the Dept. of Taxation to pay taxes, which Jared points out... hopefully you paid attention! Plus, that they have violated number consumer protection laws in regards to complete estimates (which for example say you bought a used Nikon D800 online and are charging new prices and didn't list that, well...). You demanded a deposit up front without complying to that section of law and further had the paying client(s) sign a contract that YOU take tons of images, have a policy of never showing them any unedited images, not let the client pick any images, edit them your way, and blast you advertising mark all over them without citing in your contract that your client is paying for advertising via your watermark and the images they will receive are NOT the original images (raw for example) then that is considered a deceptive business practice that is one-sided in favor of you! It is illegal in Ohio as well as across the country thanks in part to what is known as the Uniform Code. Anyways, a few were reluctant and a few said Screw You until I helped my friends file lawsuits and then they handed them over. We went though and took the same images without their advertising marks, made picks that both the photog and my friends agreed upon and further made edits that both agreed upon. In the end everyone was happy!
So when it comes to pricing. I'll give my views. When I a car shopping, I turn to auto sales magazines and websites. As a consumer, I don't want to be running all over town or the countryside and I sure in the hell don't want to spend all day on the phone calling about asking what the price is. We all know that in this case, if a price in not listed then they want too much and normally this is a sales ploy to give a you a wrath of crap in hopes to get you to buy. Samantha Swartz also points this out below. Don't buy into that crap that if you list your prices you will lose sales! What hog wash! Let me use Kevin's website as an example. Before Jared pointed out super helpful tips, prices listed or not, I would have passed Kevin up. After he made changes and regardless of pricing, I would have inquired because Kevin takes wedding images the way I think they should be! Very candid! Again, folks when it comes to weddings, it is NOT your day! Not your concept, design, styles, or ideas! It is the bride and groom's! Leave the watermarks the hell off of your images unless you are submitting them to a magazine or something similar!
Watch Jared's videos where he does test shoots in 30 minutes with a host of camera bodies from entry level to top shelf. If you pay attention, he lightly directs shop owners to maybe hold a pose, slightly move, etc. That is real wedding photography 101, which now Kevin is on the right track!
Lastly, people have budgets and smart ones will stick to those budgets, no matter how good of a salesman or photographer you are or are not. When it comes to sales, I offer and would encourage every photog to look up the PDF book of Wallace D. Wattles, The Science of Getting RIch. Pay special attention to chpt 6 "How Riches Come to You" - "Let us suppose that I own a picture by one of the great artists, which, in any civilized community, is worth thousands of dollars. I take it to Baffin Bay, and by "salesmanship" induce an Eskimo to give a bundle of furs worth $500 for it. I have really wronged him, for he has no use for the picture; it has no use value to him; it will not add to his life."
"But suppose I give him a gun worth $50 for his furs; then he has made a good bargain. He has use for the gun; it will get him many more furs and much food; it will add to his life in every way; it will make him rich. "
You may be a great photographer and/or salesman, but don't for a minute assume that everyone wants or needs your services, regardless of price points! Don't sell them things they don't need just so you can profit! If you go to the Northrup's channels and scroll down through their video, you will come across at least 6 videos where they push not stealing, copyrights as well as profiteering and price gouging. Tony has issues with Jared and look how many followers they have, who they are pushing a lot of the crap I pointed out above. What not to do! Watch Jared's other video of "Stop saying "INVESTMENT" For Wedding Photography!" I have yet to hear the Northrup's cover topics that Jared does in a realistic and sensible manner! If you are not making money and worried about watermarks, copyrights and all of that jazz, head over to the Northrup's channel and they will fill with their hidden agenda crap!
R.I.P Kevin Kramer
In my bag.. Nobody really cares as long as the images are good. "And a crap ton of memory cards"! Is that what it says? No, surely not!
Simon Pole
Im 25, a full time student. I get squarespace for 50% off... its fucking great
Great video! Some really usful advice in there!
spot on (about the price and watermark)
Awesome critique
Always be closing
I really like that "I shoot raw" zip up hoodie, not seeing it on the website though....
hey bro a water mark is a double edge weapon ... the water mark can destroy the perfect image, u have to know how to use it .. the position of the mark can create a distraction in the photo making the visual tour disrupted, as a page like that u dont have to make mark in just 3 images then the next 5 dont.. the order is really important for the client even if you spam your name around the page. Is a desition put water mark or dont.
If u put it then copy out of the image.
If u dont... just good.
Great video. TONS of good info thanks!
you are so funny. I love the personality man :D
he changed it........ looks greatttttttttttttttt! Jared man you are Good! :)
This is awesome! So many helpful tips here! If anyone checked Kevin Kramer's website, he changed it already! Well done!
wow, the FRO just mauled that guy's website! that's what happens when you send stuff to the Fro,people!! don't send your stuff if you can't handle the pain! gotta say i'm addicted to this channel. i won't be sending my photos anytime soon though.
chris gomez He didn't maul it, he gave good, constructive feedback. Most of the stuff on there is good, it's just the way he's presented some of it. The quality of the work only speaks for itself so far, as good as it is. People working for themselves tend to be good at the thing they're getting paid for, but not necessarily good at actually managing and marketing the thing. Their skills lie elsewhere. Having this kind of feedback is only going to help him in the long run. You tend to live within a bubble when you work for yourself because nobody else is around to question or challenge your decisions.
chris gomez I wouldn't call it a mauling actually. I call it a wake up call. He asked a few months ago about squarespace pages, and I sent mine in. I didn't know he was doing a video til he called me yesterday, and we spoke before it went live. Now I know what I needed to do, i made the changes, and will hope for a change as well. It boosted my confidence as well.
i stand corrected. what i like about jared is that he calls it the way he sees it, and that professional honesty is what helps us improve. btw, loved your photos, kevin!!
Thank you so much Chris! Means a lot!
Pick a price, then triple it. THAT'S what you post onsite. Too many barrel-scrapers out there, the only difference is how much you're worth, and thats a figure YOU DECIDE ro give yourself.
Is that a Fuji X-E2 on your desk? I really hope so. I'd love to know your thoughts on the little beast.
hi Jared great video you a real a real inspiration keep the good work.
Perfect Advice....Brilliant.
Hello. I would not even recommend to advertise your prices on the internet: if people are interested in a wedding photographer, they can call and then we can negotiate prices. Why not advertising prices? For one it might not fit the budget of the person in question therefore the person won't even call you, and two competition will take advantage of your prices to lower theirs by just an inch. For my case, I don't even run a website, I just go with word of mouth, and my portfolio is on a book and I am still in business. Maybe one day I will advertise my own website ^_^ Also for wedding photography prices, it goes from a few hundreds bucks to a few thousands of dollars, and the job assignments with a few thousands of dollars are tough because you have to negotiate back and forth (until you say "Sorry I can't do it for that price, I would recommend you to go with another photographer"). Take care guys.
No watermark, ever!
you had a couple of videos i think that have subtitles in them. but most of your videos arent. why? im interested to learn more but not many videos have subtitles.
Good old running a business in New Hampshire, no sales tax!
I haven't seen a rapid fire critique in a while......
you list your price tat gives people time to haggle the price down , were you should lower the price looking like they are getting the deal but infact your getting what you want .
Weddings make me puke. Wedding photography makes me puke further.
The prices for weddings are really crazy, don't you think? I wonder what the situation is in the rest of the world... Because where I live, if you spend like 300$ you get above average quality...
Martin Blass Your local market must either be extremely saturated or they're seen as nothing more than a few extra pennies for a day's worth on top of the jobs that bring in the real money. Weddings are crazy expensive in my experience in my part of the UK. You can spend many thousands on it.
In the south east of the US where I'm at 300 to 500 is average for the typical expected wedding day. I know people who have paid 200 and some who have dropped 4k. But yeah the average is low because every one and their brother is buying a camera and offering too cheap
Martin Blass I'm getting married in Indonesia. For about 1500 US $ I have a crew of 3 photographers, 2 videographers, 2 assistants working for one full day + mini studio for the reception, photo books, DVD with edited video. It's a good price for excellent photography considering in Indonesia normally you can pay 2500 US $ for the same package. There's amazing photographers in South East Asia. Mine is called Namora Pictures. Check their work!And BTW where I live now in Belgium I'd say for the same price I'd only get one photographer :D
Southeast COG Videos 300 to 500 for a wedding in the USA? haha, no i dont think so. There is a difference between getting a professional to shoot the wedding and getting a friend who is an amateur who thinks they are a professional. weddings typically start from around $1500 and can range to $5000 just for photography. Everything in weddings is expensive. You can expect to pay up to $2000 just for flowers. There is more to just turning up and pressing the shutter button. Lots of time=lots of photos= lots of editing.
+yomega brain how many hours do you think? My understanding is usually they only do post-processing on a set of key images. I would have thought it would be something like 8 hours for the event and 4 hours processing. $1500 seems steep for a basic package without an assistant to me.... unless my estimate of time is off
the agreement you have with square space the affiliate marketing I've been hearing about and do you need a certain number of views to join a company?
im NOT a wedding photographer, sticking mainly to sports and more industrial/technical photography..
could someone please explain how a photo/party booth works? is there someone there (extra photographer?) shooting those images? is there a remotely controlled camera like those 4-photo strip booths in the mall? very curious about those...
whoa 1440p? when did that happen?
prufesuroak while you were sleeping
Jared, I love what you do and your info is always welcome but, Squarespace for wedding photographers? Clients can't buy prints from Squarespace.
Colin Todd That's correct, they can't buy prints from there. That's why I suggested SmugMug for that option. I think smugmug sites are horrid but their selling capability is fantastic. There is a partnership between the two companies any way.
Jared Polin Or you could get friendly with a good quality local printer then use the commerce stuff on Squarspace to sell those.
+Jared Polin What are your thoughts on Zenfolio? Lots of local pros use it. It seems to be best for actually selling stuff...which is all that really counts....
+Ken Strong I use both Smugmug and Zenfolio. They are both excellent although, slightly different. Use the trial option to judge them for yourself.
Thanks...I'll check them both out.
Personally I do not pout watermarks on any of my photos. If someone wants to steal the photo, so be it, but it's their morales that are fucked up.
Juliet Alpha Kilo Echo If they want to steal it they will anyway, watermark or not. A few moments in Photoshop (likely also stolen lol) can fix that if they're that interested in it but still don't want to pay.
At the end of the day, the photographers with the wanted images are to good ones. And those who steal it are the jealous unskilled ones. That's how I see it. I cant imagine stealing someone else's photos, I don't even like to repost on my IG/flickr/twitter pages.
Jared Polin how does one start actually doing this in terms of tax and uncle sam. (Im currently working on a squarespace, logo/brand design, and business cards. But what do you do about shipping? Creating cool albums like one in one of your vids an 8x12? My customer base is my entire campus and orgs, events, greek life, even university officials if they want an event photographed.
This was 4 years ago. Do you still recommend linking to Smugmug, or just using Smugmug, or just Squarespace, or Wix?
If you haven't already... check out Queensberry. You won't regret it.
you missed the FAQ in the info tab haha
i really enjoyed this video
Hi, does anyone know what squarespace template is being used. I like it and would like to use it myself!!
SirSilverFox I looked it up, montauk-demo
trying to lose weight just so I can get a "I shoot raw" shirt/hoodie
What's that hard drive enclosure to the left of Jared's Imac?
+Corey Riggle Lexar Pro Workflow H2 www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1186723-REG/lexar_lrwhr2tbna_professional_workflow_hr2_tb2.html
+flychild Thanks!
Don't randomly capitalize words, Jared.
i see a sony a6000 in the background does that mean there might be a review
inhousemedia you see wrong.
Jared Polin Its a Fuji :)
lol at the ranting in this video
heheheheheheheeh you crack me up man..... Great tips!
love your work,love your reviews... but, sorry, i don't like the beginning: froooo knooooows phoooootooooo , sorry, just my opinion ;)
So are you saying he is good at photography but he is not good at website UX strategy? well... he is not a web designer. lol
Why no gay couples weddings on his site?
Because no gay people have hired him? I mean he cant just roll up to a gay wedding and take photos.
wow....weddings are expensive oO
benjamin w Yes. Yes they are. At the end of the day though no matter how much you spend on everything else, the person taking the pictures and/or video of the day is the stuff you'll have forever as a record of the day, so you want it done well. That generally means paying well for it too.
TalesOfWar so maybe there isnt enough competition, if there was the price would be lower I think
It's cheap in my area because you could sneeze and hit 3 in front of you willing to shoot for sub 500
I had to leave right away. That creepy thing you say in the intro? No way. Bye.