Advice sorely needed.

[devilla101]

Ok I would really like some opinions on this.

I work as a graphic designer and the boss is interested in using me to provide photography service to clients.
I'll be using my gear since the company doesnt have them. (5D, 30D and assortment of L lenses, flash and other nit knacks.

The deal is the company pay me my usual daily wage PLUS extra for the use for my gear (He's thinking $10 - $20/hour).

All editing and retouching done in the company studio so no extra pay there.

So basically they only pay me when I use my equipment.

At the moment I'm not too concerned yet with image/rights usage, but I want to know what should I charge on top of my daily wage, for the use of my gear?

Thanks everyone

[Ant]

Ron, This probably depends on what your hourly rate already is. I would find out the reasonable hourly rate for a photographer and then work out the difference between that and your current hourly rate.

Ant.

[MATT]

Other benefits though, write off all you camera gear to tax as tools of the trade...

MATT

[Yi-P]

Does the job require you to travel out? Like meeting clients, taking the shots... or is all done in-house in the studio for product or something?

For the company making you to travel out to a location which is not your standard work location, I would say requiring additional pay to cover:
- petrol cost
- travelling time/cost
- vehicle wear & damages
- camera wear & damages

without the above costs covered if you are travelling out for job, you possibly end up paying the job by yourself, and the company getting all credits and pay.

[big pix]

........ i would say that your time is being charged to clients at a lot more than 10 or 20 dollars per hour......... using your own gear is worth a lot more than the amount being offered, as it will not last long being used for commercial work, won't be long before it is off for repairs and then who pays for the repairs or replacement

....... you and your gear are being used by someone who does not want to spend any money

[devilla101]

Thanks for your opinions everyone.

I'm thinking around $40-$45 + hourly wage

Which takes into account wear and tear, insurance etc etc

Does anyone think this is a fair number?

[devilla101]

Just another thing, I know as photohgraphers we are a proud bunch but I also have to take into account advantages by taking photos for the company. More exposure and possibility of doing work outside the company.

[PiroStitch]

I've been down this road before and while it sounds great, just be wary that the company will also be looking out for their best interest. If you're forte is design, why would they want to keep sending you out for photography when that's time away from the work that brings in the money for them?

In my previous role, I negotiated a 50-50 split of the hourly rate which ended up being about 40-60 as it was 50-50 on top of my wage as well as transportation fees. After doing a few jobs, the company ended up not promoting me as much which left me a bit jaded.

I'd negotiate a higher hourly rate as well as get the agreement in writing. It's good extra $ on the side, but sometimes doing it outside of work hours is better in return.

[v81]

New and not greatly experienced here, but i have a thought that might help you decide the right amount.

Get some quotes on what it costs to hire gear, and then charge your employer lets say no less than 50% of cost of hiring the gear outside.

My guess is that you'll justify a better price for your gear that way.

Consider if you were using your own gear on a job and it got broken or stolen from site, would your employer cover that?
If so, then I guess keep the charge low, if not then you can justifiably ask for $$$.