My assistant is a senior and a cheerleader. Their former photographer does't want to do pics for them this year so they she asked if I would like to do it. I would like to do it for them, but I have no eartly idea what to charge. Not looking to make a fortune off of it - just looking for a fair idea of price and what I should include. This might be a good way to get in the door for senior portraits in a month or so.

I was thinking maybe:
(8) wallets
(2) 5x7
and (1) 8x10 team pic

Does that sound okay? Any idea what to charge?

I did ask what they got and were charged last year, but they can't remember.

That's because the parents buy them. Usually a basic package from a school sports photographer would start at around $20, but they usually provide some kind of sports-related border on them - as well as have options for things like trading cards and other novelty items.

If that's what they are expecting, you might ask that question on photo.net.

I don't think they are expecting that (borders, cards and stuff). Actually, I don't think they really care that much...just basically want some pics.

I thought I would do the standard individual and team shots. Then maybe have a little fun and make a slideshow for them.

I just have no eartly idea what is the norm for pricing.

$20 - unless you can convince them that this is much more artistic than the norm. (Or they are already a very upscale school.) This kind of photography is high volume.

By the way, here is a company that provides services and supplies for children's sports photography.

http://www.sports-america.com

Jill,

I heard of a company that offered only two packages. Package one was a 5x7 of the team. Package two was that plus the individual photo. Then only the people getting an individual got both. No, fuss easy as pie... welll easier than pie.... So, all you would have to do is count the envelopes and you know how many team photos you need.

I think that is a $30 package what your offering. But, that said when they pay a low price it is a one shot deal... The only way to make money on it is in and out quick. Half hour tops... If they want multible poses they will need to call you for a session.

That is my 2 cents! Good Luck!

Thanks for the feedback so far. I was thinking $25, but didn't know if that was too much. This is a pretty expensive private school. I'm not looking to get into this business - just helping them out. And gaining access to some high school seniors which might be beneficial this spring.

If it's a private school, why not present an affordable base option along with a high-end equivalent of senior photography? (Say $150.)

Well, they need someone Tuesday...it's a last minute thing. I was thinking about doing the shoot and putting some kind of promotion in with the cheerleading photos.

GOOOOOOOO JILL! A-W-E-S-O-M-E You're awe-some, awe-some.. totally!

ha ha Sorry I couldn't resist repeating the cheer from last night. But it's also the truth about you!

I would charge a flat rate and then let the girls divide it per person or however the school would handle it or shoot the session for free and let them order online only a la carte prints and only have the gallery up for 14 days. If you are looking to get your name out there this is the perfect chance.

I would also call the head cheerleader and tell each girl to bring one additional clothing change. That way you can have them change and do one more causal group portrait and some more senior stuff. From there I would make some promo pieces of the girls and when you deliver the prints for the actual session you can provide them with promo materials for your senior sessions to hand out. I would be upfront with them the entire time and let them know you do senior sessions and that you want to showcase them on your website /blog etc. They will eat that up!

To me I wouldn't care if it took an extra hour or so this could really build up your senior base especially if there are a nice group of underclassman on the squad.

Good luck and have fun! Share your results!!!!

Amanda