Read this guide to learn the differences between commercial, editorial and retail photography, the basics of copyright and licensing, and how to determine what to charge.
Pricing Guides
These pricing resources are offered as tools to help determine your fees. Pricing your photography is an art in itself — there is no one correct fee. You must evaluate the variables unique to your business and the project being priced, as well as, educate yourself on the industry norms for the particular class of work. These resources will help you find the answers.
ASMP Paperwork Share
Learn about pricing from your fellow members. The Paperwork Share shows you actual estimates and invoices from real jobs by ASMP members.
Calculate your Cost of Doing Business
Your cost of doing business is a key component in determining your fees. Here is a detailed explanation on what makes up your Cost of Doing Business. Our friends at National Press Photographers Association have an excellent online calculator for determining your specific CODB.
Editorial Estimator
Our friends at Editorial Photographers have an online Editorial Estimator that calculates editorial fees based on the size of the image used and the circulation rates of the publication.
Pricing Software: Foto Quote
Foto Quote Pro 6 is downloadable software offering pricing guides for stock and assignment photography. Cost $139. A 15% discount is available to ASMP members.
Pricing Software: Hindsight
Hindsight’s Photo Price Guide is downloadable software that gives suggested pricing for stock photography licenses. Cost is $99. A 10% discount is available to ASMP members.
Pricing Photography: The Complete Guide to Assignment & Stock Prices
This book by Michal Heron & David MacTavish offers detailed pricing charts for stock and assignment photography. Order directly from Allworth Press. Members receive a 15% discount from Allworth.
Your ASMP Network
Use Find a Photographer to locate fellow members specializing in the type of work you are struggling to price. Network with fellow photographers by attending your local chapter events, joining a specialty group or signing up for one of our online communities. ASMP is photographers helping photographers.
Pricing Consultant: Seth Resnick
Photographer and owner of D-65 Digital Workflow Seth Resnick offers pricing services for assignment and stock photography. Fill out an online worksheet and receive pricing assistance within 24 hours. Cost is $25 per request.
Pricing Consultant: Susanne Sease
Creative Consultant Susanne Sease, former art buyer from large and small agencies, offers estimating and negotiating services for high production level photography assignments. Services start at $150.