When to start charging?

[fk319]

Whenever I go some place, that is not part of my weekly routine, I

usually have my camera with me. In the past, when I was using film, I

would get doubles and give a copy to a friend who was with me or

whatever. Now, since I am shooting digital, I only make print for my

wifes scrapbook and everything ends up on my blog.

 

My question is, what do I charge for a print and what do I charge for

an origional. One example is, I went to a reunion and I took the only

group picture, another is I have a picture on line, and somebody, not

related or in the picture, wants a print.

 

This question is about me going with my family for an outing and

sombody wanting a print, not about being invited to come and take

pictures.

[art_haykin]

As in ALL matters photographic, you charge all the traffic will bear. It's all gravy anyhow, pal.

[stephen hazelton]

In digital, what is "an original"? You mean the file?

 

If a friend or family member asked for something like that, it seems awfully cheap to charge them for it.

 

Consider too, once you charge for it, that's taxable income for the IRS...

[spanky]

In a recent class a fellow classmate liked my work enough that twice during the semester she asked for whatever particular print I happened to be working on. It didn't occur to me to charge her. However when people start asking me to take pictures for them that's where the rubber meets the road. Amazing how many people want photographers to work for free. In your case I don't think I'd charge anything if it's just a once in a while request. If you must be paid then maybe consider it good karma that will pay off for you in some other way.