Learn how to calculate your hourly or project rate for architectural photography based on your costs, value, options, terms, and extras.

It is so important to know your value and to also calculate your expenses. Travel and wear and tear on your vehicle add up. Include in your fee mileage. Also, people do not realize how long editing can take. Charge editing fees per image. Most important, have a clear licencing and fee contract that states a deposit is due.

Last updated on Aug 7, 2024

How do you calculate your hourly or project rate for architectural photography?

Architectural photography is a specialized and rewarding field that requires creativity, skill, and technical knowledge. But how do you set your rates as an architectural photographer? Whether you charge by the hour or by the project, there are several factors to consider before you send a quote to a client. In this article, we will explore some of the best practices and tips for calculating your hourly or project rate for architectural photography.

1 Know your costs

The first step to setting your rates is to know your costs. This includes your fixed costs, such as equipment, software, insurance, taxes, and overhead, as well as your variable costs, such as travel, assistants, permits, and licensing. You should also factor in your time, not only for shooting, but also for editing, delivering, and marketing your work. You can use a spreadsheet or a tool like PhotoQuote to track and estimate your costs.

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Kate Brine

Photographer: Abstract conceptual and architectural photography
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It is so important to know your value and to also calculate your expenses. Travel and wear and tear on your vehicle add up. Include in your fee mileage. Also, people do not realize how long editing can take. Charge editing fees per image. Most important, have a clear licencing and fee contract that states a deposit is due.

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Zivai Mamutse

Candidate Architect | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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With my experience, Calculating your hourly or project rate for architectural photography involves considering various factors to ensure you cover your costs, make a profit, and remain competitive in the market. Calculate Your Costs: Direct Costs: Consider expenses directly related to a specific project, such as travel, accommodation, assistants, equipment rental, and any other costs incurred solely for that project. Indirect Costs: Factor in your general business expenses like insurance, equipment maintenance, studio rent, software, marketing, and other overhead costs. Divide these costs by the number of projects you expect to undertake to get an indirect cost per project.

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2 Know your value

The second step to setting your rates is to know your value. This means understanding your market, your clients, and your competitors. You should research the average rates for architectural photography in your area, as well as the demand and supply of your services. You should also identify your unique selling proposition, such as your style, experience, reputation, or niche. You should aim to charge a rate that reflects your value and quality, but also fits your client's budget and expectations.

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Zivai Mamutse

Candidate Architect | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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Knowing your value is crucial. When i was still a novice i produced quality work but did not understand my value. A lot of clients used to take advantage of me on pricing. Looking back, i feel obliged to advise on helping people understand their value

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3 Know your options

The third step to setting your rates is to know your options. You can choose to charge by the hour or by the project, depending on your preference and the scope of the work. Charging by the hour gives you more flexibility and transparency, but also requires you to track and justify your time. Charging by the project gives you more certainty and simplicity, but also requires you to estimate and negotiate the scope and deliverables. You should weigh the pros and cons of each option and decide what works best for you and your client.

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Zivai Mamutse

Candidate Architect | Computational Designer | Parametric Modeling Expert
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Evaluate Client Budgets: Understand your potential clients' budgets. Tailor your rates to match the expectations and financial capacity of your target market. Hourly Rate vs. Project Rate: Decide whether you want to charge an hourly rate or provide a project-based quote. Project rates can be more appealing to clients as they know the total cost upfront.

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4 Know your terms

The fourth step to setting your rates is to know your terms. This means defining and communicating the details of your contract, such as the scope, deliverables, deadlines, payments, revisions, and rights. You should have a clear and written agreement with your client that covers all the aspects of the project and protects both parties. You should also have a deposit and a cancellation policy to secure your booking and avoid disputes.

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5 Know your extras

The fifth step to setting your rates is to know your extras. These are the additional services or products that you can offer to your client, such as retouching, printing, framing, or licensing. You can use these extras to add value and income to your work, but also to differentiate yourself from your competitors. You should have a menu of extras that you can present to your client, either as part of your package or as an upsell.

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6 Know your worth

The final step to setting your rates is to know your worth. This means being confident and professional in your pricing and negotiation. You should be able to explain and justify your rates based on your costs, value, options, terms, and extras. You should also be able to handle objections and requests from your client, such as discounts, bartering, or referrals. You should aim to establish a fair and mutually beneficial relationship with your client, based on trust and respect.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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How do you calculate your hourly or project rate for architectural photography?

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1 Know your costs

2 Know your value

3 Know your options

4 Know your terms

5 Know your extras

6 Know your worth

7 Here’s what else to consider

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