Estimates

Q:

What is the standard day rate for a photographer?

A:

The standard day rate, creative fee, or per shot assignment fee for a photographer depends on the industry they are in. I hear editorial is $500 per day unless it’s a magazine cover. Commercial advertising can run the gamut usually starting at $3,500, up to $6,500 or even around $15k for big jobs.

Also, factor location scouting, prep days, travel days and overseeing post production rates into that rate. And then remember to factor in all the costs of each industry.

Unfortunately there is no clear answer here but there are some great resources to reference. Those are noted below. 

Resources available for pricing help: visit @aphotoeditor online for pricing and bidding help, they feature sample estimates

@wonderfulmachine is also great and can step in and help with estimates. 

You can also always reach out to a photo agent with questions and we are often happy to hop on a job with you and negotiate your rates. Send industry related questions to ask@Sternrep.com.

Q:

Did a bad estimate ever lose a photographer the job?

A:

Guest Post, Mara Serdans: Yes, absolutely, If I feel like a photographer did not understand the scope or properly estimate the job, I let my team know that it could be a risk. I also let the photographer and/or agent know so they can learn from the experience. 

Guest Post: Creative Consultant, Mara Serdans

www.MaraSerdans.com

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

Trust me, always have a signed estimate that clearly describes what the bid is based on and what the licensed usage is. Be sure all costs are agreed on before beginning the job.