Commercial photogra...
 

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Commercial photography newbie question

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Hello all. I currently do photography work for an estate agent - my fees are fixed by them and are not particularly generous! 

I’ve recently been approached to do some commercial work photographing products to go on a website. It’s not a massive job - probably around 20 images in the first instance - and should be quite straightforward from my point of view.

I don’t have any idea of what I should charge for this type of work and I’m hoping you may be able to guide me. Should I charge based on time or per photograph and what rate sounds about right for the job?

Thanks in advance for any input and advice. 


 
Posted : 10/09/2025 10:09 pm
 rone
Posts: 9325
Full Member
 

I run a production company for films/video and freelance work - the stills people we work with might charge for the day with rate of around £350-1000 depending on assistance etc and complexity.

We charge on time and will sometimes do a hourly rate too plus kit. Depends on distance and expenses which will normally be on top.

Is it a location or studio type shoot?

What kit are you working with?

How long will it take?

You're going to have to find your feet here and maybe you clearly need to establish yourself. Don't undersell yourself but equally be realistic.


 
Posted : 11/09/2025 1:15 am
Posts: 1513
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I would charge per item for product shots. 


 
Posted : 11/09/2025 4:03 am
Posts: 50
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A bit more info would be helpful please.

Simple white background product shots of small, non- reflective or complicated products is going to take much less time than big glass vases on different colours.

Im a photographer but this is not my bread and butter. Happy to advise you on rates if you want to message me. Lots of factors to take into consideration. 

 


 
Posted : 11/09/2025 8:23 am
Posts: 1045
 

I'd charge per product, and work it out based on how long it's going to take you from start to finish.

Take your day rate, then work out how many products you can shoot in a day, taking into account the setup time, any props needed, travel costs etc. Then add editing time on top of that. 

I've just sent out an invoice to a client where I reshot their entire product catalogue earlier this year, delivering nearly 800 images. The shoot was over 15 days and had half that again for retouching.  Feel free to drop me a message if you want to discuss in more detail


 
Posted : 11/09/2025 4:33 pm

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