Product pictures are an important aspect of any product page. They’re some of the first things people look at when they’re out shopping. However, many businesses are intimidated by professional product photography pricing. Here’s a look at some of the budgeting and studio selection mistakes you can make while looking for professional services: Common Product Photography Budgeting Mistakes
Table of Contents
1. Not Research Local Average Costs
Product photography pricing can vary from one location to another, which is why it is a good idea to research local pricing carefully. For example, product photography can be around $100/hour in Australia and around $150 in the US. The cost of professional services will also differ based on whether the studio is in New York City or Seattle. Studios will often set their pricing based on their overhead costs and required profit. When you research local pricing, you have a more realistic idea of what to expect and can plan the budget accordingly.
2. Not Asking For Estimates From Multiple Vendors
Different vendors will have different product photography pricing based on their services and overhead costs. It is a good idea to get estimates from around three to four vendors to get a good idea of what to expect. You can compare all of these estimates to find a studio that provides the most value. Don’t settle for the most affordable option because that may turn out to be a bad decision. Compare the cost with the type and quality of service provided before making a decision. It is also wise to consider all of the inclusions and exclusions carefully before hiring a studio.
3. Not Looking For Studios Close To Your Location
Look for a studio close to your business location as much as possible. You will need to ship the items to and from the studio for the photography session. That can add to your expenses if you’re not careful. It is more affordable and less time consuming to transport items to a studio in the same town than to a studio in the neighboring city. While you may save some money on product photography pricing, you may end up paying more on related expenses.
4. Not Considering Actual Costs Per Image
Consider the entire cost of the photography service and then divide it by the number of finalized images you get. That should give you a total cost per image, which makes it easier to plan a budget. For example, if your total costs are around $500 and you get 50 images, the cost per image is $10. Some images will cost more than others based on the type of photography you choose. Lifestyle images are expensive because they involve models, props, and outdoor locations.
5. Not Looking At Additional Costs Not Mentioned In The Quote
Some costs aren’t mentioned in the quote but clients should consider when hiring a professional service or planning a budget. If your products are expensive or delicate, get insurance coverage for them and include the cost of insurance premiums in your budget. You will also need to cover the costs of shipping the product to the studio and get it back to your business location. Consider factors like product size, dimensions, weight, prep, and styling carefully as well. They can influence the overall cost of the service as well.
6. Hiring A Studio That Doesn’t Have Insurance
While you should get insurance for your product, it is also a good idea to choose a studio that has comprehensive insurance. Cost of repairs or replacements is not included in the product photography pricing. If the studio doesn’t have insurance, you may need to pay for repairs or replacements out of the pocket. Look for a studio that has comprehensive insurance coverage and knows how to handle products of different sizes or compositions safely. That will save you a lot of notes in the long run, especially if you’re looking for a long term photography partner.
7. Not Looking At The Product Photography Pricing Carefully
Different studios have different types of pricing approaches. Some charge on a per-product basis or per-image basis. Others charge on an frequent or daily basis and deliver a fixed number of photographs. Consider the product pricing carefully because they can have an impact on how much you spend on professional services. For example, you may end up paying more money through hourly professional photography services. Consider all options carefully before hiring a studio.
8. Not Getting Clarification On The Estimates
Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the estimate. Most photography studios will be happy to answer your questions and provide more information on their services. If the studio doesn’t communicate openly with you, consider switching providers and finding a more reliable vendor. Asking questions will help you avoid surprises down the line.
9. Spending On Quantity Instead Of Quality
It is a good idea to have a meaty product page with many descriptive images but that doesn’t mean you can compromise on image quality. It is better to have four good-quality images than a dozen poor quality ones. You may end up preserving more money on product photography pricing by investing in a good photographer. Experienced professionals use the best equipment and have excellent editing skills. They will make sure your product images are current, readable, and will last for a long time.
10. Relying Too Much On The Studio’s Reputation
Don’t rely too much on the studio’s reputation. Some establishments with award-winning photographers will charge more simply because of their brand value. You can find a local photography studio that delivers the same quality at more affordable product photography pricing.
Product photography pricing can be expensive if you don’t plan well, which is why it is a good idea to consider the service carefully. Speak with different studios in the area, discuss different kinds of services they offer and ask professionals for some advice on product photography. Pick a studio that communicates with you effectively and has a good portfolio. You can also speak with the studio’s past clients to get a clear idea of what to expect from them.
