Covering a lunch function

[Alpha_7]

A collegue at work is holding a lunch function and would like to hire a photographer to cover the event, the images would be used for a newletter and would probably consist of some social-style photos, perhaps some candids and maybe a few more posed shots (I'm guessing)? But generally its just to provide a record of the event.

The photographer would maybe need to be there 1-1.5 hours, and no PP would be required just the digital shots on a CD or DVD.

My friend wanted to know how much they should expect to pay for this sort of gig, and asked if $150 was in the ballpark.

I said I'd ask on their behalf here and forward her the results ?

[wendellt]

it's about $400 that's fair
thats the standard rate PR companies pay photogrpahers to cover social events

are you doing it craig?

[Geoff]

I'll do it for $300 (cash)

[Paul]

'll do it for $299...

Sorry Geoff

[Alpha_7]

Wendell I haven't been asked to do it, and the way it was ask..
They want someone that is already making money, doing this with a higher level of professionalism then me apparently.

[Kyle]

Wendell I haven't been asked to do it, and the way it was ask..
They want someone that is already making money, doing this with a higher level of professionalism then me apparently.

On a side note, I hate this type of attitude

Were they even willing to have a look at your work before coming to that conclusion?

[Glen]

Wendell seems to have a talent for making people look good in these social situations

[Alpha_7]

Wendell I haven't been asked to do it, and the way it was ask..
They want someone that is already making money, doing this with a higher level of professionalism then me apparently.

On a side note, I hate this type of attitude

Were they even willing to have a look at your work before coming to that conclusion?

They have seen my work, and well I can see both sides.

[PiroStitch]

say you'll do it for $200 inc. lunch + all the photos and stuff on CD/DVD. Get your foot in the door Craig

[wendellt]

craig
just tell them you'll do it
if you want more pointers i'll help you

anyway what sort of event is it?

[Glen]

Craig, different styles suit different objectives. No point trying to push s.... uphill if they want a different style, just give them the prices and some recommendations if they ask. You don't want them to confuse their judgement of your primary work with their opinion of your photography

[Jonas]

You're a better man than me Craig. If someone asked me what the going rate was for photography and knew I was an amatuer photog but didn't want me to shoot the event, I don't think I'd be rushing to give them an answer on pay rates.

I say back yourself and offer to do it and show them copies of your work. But I understand it ain't always that simple.