Budgets

Q:

Do you find yourself having to turn jobs away because budgets are too small or do you make it work? If your photographers are in a slow period does that affect your decision?

A:

I do find that requests with smaller budgets happen sometimes. The decision whether or not to take the job in part depends on whether the budget is going to negatively affect the quality of their work. If a budget doesn’t support getting a great image then I don’t recommend that they do the job. 

The ideal situation for a lower budget job is if it’s going to be great for their portfolio, then it’s essentially a paid test and is worth it. And yes, a slower period does affect our decision and inspires us more to take the job.

Q:

What are some examples of a bad estimate?

A:

Guest Post, Mara Serdans: Misunderstanding the project deliverables or details. Low-balling the estimate or forgetting to include specific expenses. This helps no one because it’s very difficult to ask the client for more money once a job is awarded. 

Guest Post: Creative Consultant, Mara Serdans

www.MaraSerdans.com

Q:

What factors make you want to put a particular photographer up for a job?

A:

Guest Post Mara Serdans: There are a few factors that come into play when recommending a particular photographer for a job. First and foremost, the photographer’s style is paramount. It needs to sync up with the art director’s vision. His/her level of experience is also a consideration. Where a photographer is located sometimes comes into play although many photographers these days are open to working as a local in larger markets. Lastly, budget is a factor. The photographer needs to fall within the ballpark to be considered a contender. 

Guest Post: Creative Consultant, Mara Serdans

www.MaraSerdans.com