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Top 5 Tips for Estimates

November 4, 2020

We are all curious about ESTIMATES.
My top 5 tips for every estimate:

  1. Start it off with the amount of final images you have agreed on. 
  2. No variations included. 
  3. This bid is based on information provided, any changes may incur overages. 
  4. 10-hour shoot day. 
  5. No overtime is included.

What do we need to include to help a photographer secure a job based on the estimate? Today, I’m going to share my top five points for creating an effective estimate:

  1. Job Description: Always include the number of shots at the top of the estimate. This is important because clients might want to add shots later, so clearly state how many shots are included and emphasize that there are no variations.
  2. Information and Overages: Add a line stating, “This bid is based on information provided; any changes may incur overages.” This protects you if changes are made to the scope of work.
  3. Hours: Specify the number of hours the shoot is based on. This helps set clear expectations.
  4. Overtime: Indicate if there is no overtime included in your estimate. Mention this in the email as well so clients know up front if additional hours will incur extra charges. Typically, estimates are based on 10 hours.
  5. Usage Rights: Note that usage rights are granted with full payment. Usage becomes legally theirs only once payment is received, so make this clear.

These are my top five points, plus one extra on usage rights. See you next week for the “Navigating the Unknown” webinar, where we’ll discuss this further.