Why do some photographers charge so much???

Have you ever asked yourself  why some photographers charge so much? Well its really a matter of simple economics, not greed as some people think.

Just as an example, compare these two lists...

What most people "think" they are paying for when hiring a photographer...

• Someone to take Pictures for a period of time

What people are "REALLY" paying for when hiring a photographer...

• Someone to take Pictures for a period of time
• Cost of camera(s) and lenses
• Cost of flashes and lighting
• Cost of tripods and other "gear"
• Cost of memory cards and/or film
•  The expenses (time and money) used for training, upkeep, and upgrading photography skills (not to mention gaining experience)
• Transportation, travel, and accommodations costs
• Time and costs involved in post processing, editing and/or touching up photos
• Promotional & advertising costs
• Expenses for Web sites and computer equipment/software
• Costs of phone and other equipment needed to make arrangements
• Cost of props and studio backgrounds and rentals
• Printing and framing costs
• Costs of insurance against liability and theft
• Employee and assistant compensation
• Taxes

There are certainly other things I am overlooking. Granted, not all photographers have the same expenses. But, we all have "some" expenses...

And that list doesn't touch on "cost of living" expenses or even profit...

So, the next time you are questioning why a photographer is asking what he or she is asking for their services... Think about the expenses involved.

Most photographers do it for the love of the art... We hope that maybe we can recover some of the expense... And in rare cases, make a profit.

--- Mark ---