Table of Contents
1.Be persistent.
Most clients expect to pay photographers for their services. The problem is that many of us accept jobs we would rather not do at a lower rate. This means that we can get into a downward spiral of low income and low self-esteem. The best option is to ask for the lowest possible fee and negotiate for a better deal afterwards.
2.Be selective.
Be careful to pick the types of jobs you want to do. Choose jobs that suit your interests and strengths. For example, if you enjoy photography and are good at creating images that look natural, then you should choose jobs that involve photographing real people. If you are more interested in writing or editing, find jobs where you can use your skills. If you enjoy working in fashion or food, choose jobs that are creative or require you to use your creativity.
3.Ask for what you want.
Make it clear in your job application that you are looking for a better rate for your services. Ask whether you can be paid a different hourly rate for different parts of the project. Many businesses offer bonuses on top of a regular salary, and these can be a good way of earning extra money.
4.Know your worth.
Many employers will not think you are worth much if you ask for a high rate for your work. Know your market value, research rates, and see how much your time is worth. Work out what your potential clients expect to pay and set your fees accordingly. Be prepared to negotiate and bargain, and if necessary, ask for a bonus on top of your usual rate.
5.Make a business plan.
Set out in advance exactly how you will earn money. If you are serious about your project, you should write out your budget, what you will need to buy, the amount of money you need to live on and how you will spend your free time. Look through magazines and websites for examples of budgets and business plans.
6.Do some research.
Research the types of work you would like to do and the jobs you could do. Read up on the areas you want to work in, the equipment you need and any training you need. Look at the market prices and demand for work in your area. Visit places where you might like to work and talk to people who work there. Take any advice you get seriously.
7.Think about the time you need.
If you want to be a freelance photographer, you will need time to practice and develop your skills. Decide whether you will be a full-time or part-time worker. If you are only taking one or two jobs, you will need to plan carefully. Do not take too many jobs, because you will not have the time to do them properly. Try to focus on one project at a time.
8.Develop your skills.
Find out what skills you need to develop. Photography is a highly skilled profession that requires lots of training, knowledge and experience. Look at the skills that you need to learn and what you will need to do to get them. Take a course if you do not have the skills already.
9.Plan your time.
Work out how much time you have available each week. You should set aside time for yourself to study, work on developing your skills and rest.
10.Be organized.
Use a diary to keep track of appointments, jobs you want to do and the money you earn. Be careful not to let your diary get out of hand. You should use it to record your time spent and how you spend your money.
11.Be realistic.
If you are not earning as much as you had hoped, do not be disheartened. Think about why you did not earn as much as you expected. Was it the wrong type of job? Were you not working hard enough? Was the time you needed to study too long? Try to pinpoint the reasons, and work out a way of improving your situation.