What's a mini-session?

jayvo86 · Apr 9, 2012

So I know of some photographers doing "mini-sessions" around the local area? (Digital, "all your images", half-hour, plus an 8x10 print for 50 bucks.)

What classifies a "mini-session" for a film photographer?

A local couple was looking for a portrait session. However, They thought my "regular" session price was too expensive so they asked me if I had a "mini-session" available.

To me, It's asking "We don't want the best product you can put out, only half as good is okay."

How do you handle "mini-sessions?"

Right now I'm shooting 2-3 rolls of MF on a MF RZ67 for $150. (Which I consider really cheap.)

I'm not sure I can deliver the quality I'm after for less money.

What do you guys think?

CGW · Apr 9, 2012

Usually no more than about 30 minutes and you control the ideas, location, and number of prints/products and sitters for a fixed price, usually around $150.

This sums it up:

Dead Link Removed

It's real commodification but it can pay.

SuzanneR · Apr 9, 2012

They are quick sessions, a limited number of pictures... sometimes photographers will set up, say, 6 to 8 sessions of 20 minutes each for an afternoon, have all the clients meet them at a specified location, and offer a small selection of pictures and a disk or some such. Honestly, I don't think they make much sense for film shooters, and if $150 is too much for your client, then you don't want them as a client.

Barry S · Apr 9, 2012

Sounds like another step in the race to the bottom. Why would you even consider dropping below such a ridiculously low price? When someone inquires about a a cut-rate price for work, I politely direct them to the nearest Target. My philosophy is: if you're not any good--you have no business accepting work. If you're any good--charge a price that compensates you for your skill.

jayvo86 · Apr 9, 2012

Barry S said:
Sounds like another step in the race to the bottom. Why would you even consider dropping below such a ridiculously low price? When someone inquires about a a cut-rate price for work, I politely direct them to the nearest Target. My philosophy is: if you're not any good--you have no business accepting work. If you're any good--charge a price that compensates you for your skill.

Yeah, I realize it's low. However, there are a lot of bottom feeders here. (Not that I'm trying to appeal to them.) I plan on raising my price after a few sessions so I can build up my "film portfolio."

Barry S · Apr 9, 2012

Okay, it's reasonable to work for a minimum fee or even free to build a portfolio. After that you should target clients willing to pay a premium for film work.

Robert Hall · Apr 9, 2012

Once you set a price, they will balk at anything more. You will be working for so little money it could hardly make it worth it.

Listen to Suzanne's advice, you really don't want these people as clients.

MattKing · Apr 9, 2012

They make sense if they are offered in another context - e.g. if you are photographing an event, and are offering individual portraits there as well.

Or if you are targeting a market like 1st time parents, who may be short of money now but may be willing to pay more for future work.

But otherwise, no.

What's a mini-session?

jayvo86

CGW

SuzanneR

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Barry S

jayvo86

Barry S

Robert Hall

MattKing

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What's a mini-session?

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