I've done a few things for free or for less "trade compensation" than I'm worth. But I can name them on one hand and they were all for charity events. I have never done a wedding for free not wen for family. And I have been asked. But I do discount for family (which is an entirely different beast of an argument) and if a client truly couldn't afford me I will usually work with them to customize their experience to fit in their price range. But I will not lose money on someone. And with my precedent of discounting (not free) for family I rarely get asked for free sessions. So honestly there is a time an place for free. Like charity work in my off season but if the off season becomes a busy season with paying customers you have to pay the bills. It's about business sense. I agree that exposure is good but you can barter for that. Never free. I barter with the local radio stations and have for years. It works for me. Photos at their events for radio spots. But as a learning artist offer your help in events to a professional willing to teach the trade. That's when free will really help you.
Csaba Kobol - 10 years ago
Sometimes:When I can get back same value for free .e.g. written/video reference about my services, indirect customers/leads
If I work for a charity I am expecting exposure and recognition. With family, it's posing practice and gifting ie I get emotional or spiritual pay. So for me taking photos for free Is something o avoid as it is a meaningless transaction.....
I've done a few things for free or for less "trade compensation" than I'm worth. But I can name them on one hand and they were all for charity events. I have never done a wedding for free not wen for family. And I have been asked. But I do discount for family (which is an entirely different beast of an argument) and if a client truly couldn't afford me I will usually work with them to customize their experience to fit in their price range. But I will not lose money on someone. And with my precedent of discounting (not free) for family I rarely get asked for free sessions. So honestly there is a time an place for free. Like charity work in my off season but if the off season becomes a busy season with paying customers you have to pay the bills. It's about business sense. I agree that exposure is good but you can barter for that. Never free. I barter with the local radio stations and have for years. It works for me. Photos at their events for radio spots. But as a learning artist offer your help in events to a professional willing to teach the trade. That's when free will really help you.
Sometimes:When I can get back same value for free .e.g. written/video reference about my services, indirect customers/leads
If I work for a charity I am expecting exposure and recognition. With family, it's posing practice and gifting ie I get emotional or spiritual pay. So for me taking photos for free Is something o avoid as it is a meaningless transaction.....