Pricing Product Shots

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harvey:
Somebody PM'd me here, asking for advice on how to price doing product shots, 20 products, to be photographed individually, with 3 variations in set up, which were not described. All in one day. Just as an exercise to help this unnamed photographer who will be doing a paid job for the first time, and without suggesting actual prices, what do you think he should know or inquire about in order to have a basis for pricing this photography project? Let's make this fun by sending in as many answers as possible. :)

Lagarista:
Hi Ma'm Harvey:

The 20 shots for only one day and for a beginners is a very big challenge for a novice, like me( I shoot a product just a hobby, I took 3 to 4 hours of shooting and lighting)...

Unless he is equipped with good lighting tools he may cope with this challenge. (And it should be table top products!!!)

I think he should charge per product types... I know post-processing is not yet included.

Shooting and creativity will surely siphoned his energy... :-)

jimmy010998:
Working for the 1st time would pose a lot of mistakes and I'm sure he will learn something from it. I would advice him to sit and talk with the client, discuss on what they expect when you deliver. Get a better understanding of your client's product, this way you'll have an idea of what equipment you need. Does it need the use of a studio with controlled lighting, background selections, hiring an assistant and the amount of time you'll spend shooting. Also consider the space you need to work with, how much lighting does he need to lit the product, are we dealing with liquids and is safety involved while shooting?

It all boils down by making a list of what you need. This may help you formulate a breakdown of the costs involved - indicate any optional additions that the client may need to spend like post processing as mentioned by Lagarista.

Lagarista:
I agree with Jimmy. The photographer and the client should sit down and talk first, negotiate about the pricing, and time constraints. If the client demands for 20 products (3 different angles) he should hire assistants and other photographers.

Maybe they are just online seller that wanted only typical product shots. Yep it will be possible within a day, if products are all table tops, and the photographer are equipped with complete lighting set and skills.