I recently read a blog from a fellow photographer out of Virginia. (Go Hokies!) It hit hard and the topic is something I’ve been dwelling on for quite some time. After many, many hours of education on business and financial management, this is one of the MAIN topics of discussion:
Photography Discounts
It’s so difficult for me to turn people down when they tell me how much they love photography but just can’t afford my pricing. Now, I’ve made sure I’m not the most expensive in the Tampa Bay area for Family photos. In fact, my pricing is competitive for the amount of experience. Its been on my mind a lot if I should be giving so many discounts. I love my clients and I love that you all love photography as much as I do. But the bottom line is, I spend a lot of time away from my husband and other family and friends. It does effect me. I don’t mind working weekends to a certain extent. But it’s unfortunate for my family and I if I have to consider supplemental income because I’m giving things away for free. I can assure you the business costs are no where near free.
I have tried to reduce my overhead costs by having a studio in my home and making my own props but that’s not even half of costs. With a heavy heart, I have to say No, even when I want to say yes to a discount so you may have “the most amazing family photos” , I just can’t do it. I cannot work for free. As my husband often says in relation to any business ” If an individual has a surplus of money one month, they aren’t going to call you and ask to pay you more, so no one should expect a discount.” I regularly remind myself of this.
With that said, I view this as an opportunity to remind everyone to save up for those yearly family photos. Just as you save up for a new outfit, a new car, a toy, etc.. I recognize the economy we are in and have adjusted my pricing to reflect that but remember the value of your family photos will never depreciate. You’ll remember these family photos for life but you probably won’t remember that new outfit you purchased last week. Your great grandchildren will see these photos but they won’t see that new outfit
I do offer limited edition sessions as well as incentives like my Referral Program, which you can find here.
As always, thank you for trusting me to be your Tampa Bay Family Photographer..till we meet again! Feel free to check out our portfolio of Tampa Bay Family and Children photos here.
Take a look at the original post here.
