MARCH 15, 2025

How to Price Your Photography Services Without Losing Clients

Why Pricing Feels So Hard

You’re worth more than an Instagram shoutout or a free coffee. So why does pricing your photography still make your stomach flip? I’ve been there—afraid to quote too high, desperate to book the client, and completely undercharging for my time and talent. But here’s the truth: once you get clear on your numbers, you’ll start attracting clients who don’t just want a deal — they want you.

This guide is here to help you build your dream business without burning out or second-guessing your prices.

1. Common Pricing Mistakes Photographers Make

• Charging based on what others are doing (without knowing their overhead)
• Forgetting to include editing, travel, and admin time
• Undervaluing their experience or portfolio
• Offering too many options and confusing clients

💡 Pro Tip: You’re not just selling photos — you’re selling an experience. Price accordingly.

2. Why Undercharging Hurts More Than Helps

Clients associate value with price. When you’re too cheap, it raises red flags.

- Are they legit? Are they new? Will I get what I paid for?

Undercharging also leads to:
- Resentment and burnout
- Rushed edits to make up for time lost
- Overbooking just to make ends meet

When you charge what you’re worth, you attract clients who respect your time and your craft.

3. A Simple Formula for Pricing Your Services

Here’s a base method I use (you can test this with the free calculator linked below):
(Hourly Rate x Shooting Time) + Travel Costs + (Hourly Rate x Editing Time) = Total Package Price
Don’t forget to include:
- Prep time (emails, planning, consults)
- Equipment wear & tear
- Insurance or software fees
✨ BONUS: Use my [Free Pricing Calculator]( to plug in your numbers and get instant clarity.

4. How to Set Your Hourly Rate

Start by figuring out how much you want to earn per year. Let’s say $80,000.
Then divide it by how many billable hours you realistically work.
Example: $80,000 / 1,000 hours = $80/hour
Build in a profit margin, especially if you want room to scale, outsource, or take time off.

5. Confidently Communicating Your Pricing

Confidence is contagious.

If you hesitate, your clients will too. Instead of “my rate is $300, is that okay?”

try:
“This package is $300 and includes a fully guided shoot, custom edits, and high-resolution downloads. Shall we lock in your date?”

Use a polished PDF or webpage to share your packages — not a text message. Make it visual, clear, and value-packed.

🎁 Download Your Free Pricing Calculator

Not sure what to charge? Don’t worry — I’ve created a gorgeous, plug-and-play Google Sheet you can use right now.

Confidently claim your space, your value, and your rates — because you’re not just a photographer, you’re a business.

Ready to Build a Confident, Strategic Brand?

My Photography Business Notion Template includes everything you need to:

• Track bookings
• Automate follow-ups
• Store client contracts
• Set your pricing with confidence

Explore the Full Template →

Final Thoughts

Your pricing isn’t just about money — it’s about energy, boundaries, and the future you’re building. You deserve to be well-paid for your talent. Let’s make sure your rates reflect that.

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You’ve got this. 💖

Amy-Lee