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Pepper
Out to Pasture
 
2922 Posts |
 Posted - 03/03/2010 : 08:06:20 AM
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Poll Question:
I have to edit this thread, because of complains sent via pm to pasofino.
I'm NOT advertising here. I'm far, far from doing this for a business. IF I get to that point I will pay for a regular ad!
Where to start...
Well I love photography. Became a second hobby of mine and I think I'm getting pretty good too.
Of course I've been dreaming about a professional camera, which I hopefully be able to afford soon..
My question now is if anybody would be interested in someone taking pictures of their animals, horses, etc. and how much would you wanting to spend on an afternoon?
I requested a photographer on our farm here and the prices where .... OMG!
Thanks in advance
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 Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com 
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Edited by - Pepper on 03/11/2010 10:46:48 AM
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luvhorses
Out to Pasture
3762 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 08:29:50 AM
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| Can't help you, don't live there, but just wanted to say good luck. You do take some great photos. I would think it would be a good side job. |
Life is a gift, open it with an open heart and mind, and be happy with you get! |
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ehoneycutt
Green Broke
USA
862 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 08:48:11 AM
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I put "interested if under $100" because I stay broke all the time. I've seen some of your pictures and they are very good - I'm sure you are worth more but I just couldn't swing it. Once you get started and build a in-depth portfolio you can charge the OMG prices. LOL
Best of Luck with your hobby/new adventure. |
"I can't remember the last time I wasn't at least kind of tired."
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raew
Out to Pasture
USA
4974 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 09:17:33 AM
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| You do take good pictures, but I think the general economy will be against you for a while yet. This would be a luxury item on my budget. |
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Pepper
Out to Pasture
2922 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 11:13:21 AM
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Thank you so much for the input so far. 
The responses are matching my thoughts  and my personal feeling.
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Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com
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billie
Bombproof!
1456 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 11:29:40 AM
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I went to photography school and my husband is a landscape photographer in addition to his "regular" job, so we are swimming in photographs of all our animals here! What I really need is an assistant to manage the organization of all the photos (negatives, prints, digital files, etc.!)
I've heard from my husband that many professional photographers are taking much lower-paying work right now and even doing free work to try and stir up word-of-mouth business as well as boost their portfolios. It's probably a great time to do gratis work to develop skills and get a portfolio together, but I'm not sure such a great time for a start-up charging fees.
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howard
Out to Pasture
USA
2671 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 12:37:19 PM
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Good point billie. My DIL is trying to get into photography too. She does a very good job, but I think she needs to take a couple courses. But she has been doing some photos for people and charging very little if anything at all.
I also studied photography way back when. In the good old days when we used film. And color photography was really really expensive. My problem is that any artistic ability was swept under the mat when I became an engineer.
Pepper I think your pictures are great. I am sure in a very little time word will get around. I would suggest just charging for gas at first.
What kind of camera do you have in mind? I really like my Nikon D40, D50 and D60. Its a long story how I got them all. I just planned on one. |
Howard from Cali.
If you are going to fail; I suggest that you do on bad judgement rather than lack of effort.
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Pepper
Out to Pasture
2922 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 12:57:55 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by howard
Good point billie. My DIL is trying to get into photography too. She does a very good job, but I think she needs to take a couple courses. But she has been doing some photos for people and charging very little if anything at all.
I also studied photography way back when. In the good old days when we used film. And color photography was really really expensive. My problem is that any artistic ability was swept under the mat when I became an engineer.
Pepper I think your pictures are great. I am sure in a very little time word will get around. I would suggest just charging for gas at first.
What kind of camera do you have in mind? I really like my Nikon D40, D50 and D60. Its a long story how I got them all. I just planned on one.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts! I do realize, that I'm not going to jump in this. But I would like to get started slowly. Most likely with just a little fee to cover gas.
I think photography has still a very good future, thinking of the internet world and good pictures needed for websites. Not to forget about the priceless memories.
Howard, I want the Nikon D90 with a darn expensive lens
For some reason I have no problem spending money on buying horses, lol. But such a small device for over 1000$ 
Plus the lense kept me thinking, and thinking, lol....  |
Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com
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howard
Out to Pasture
USA
2671 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 2:43:37 PM
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| Oh yeah, the D90 is nice. I just couldn't justify spending that kind of money. But I think I did, if you add up the price of the three cameras I have. I am more interested in Macro photography. I have macro lense that does a great job. |
Howard from Cali.
If you are going to fail; I suggest that you do on bad judgement rather than lack of effort.
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OutlawsLastDance
Out to Pasture
USA
3294 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 3:29:54 PM
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| I said something less than $100. I'd LOVE to have pictures of my horses, and really good ones that aren't fuzzy or blurry, or one ear back, or whatever. But, I spend SOO much money on them already, I'd rather spend that money on the stuff they need. But if it was really really affordable, I would absolutely LOVE to have someone good with a camera come take pictures. |
"That's another side of you, that I'm in love with too." - Joe Nichols
"Someone to love with my life in their hands." - Nickelback
allabouttari.blogspot.com/ |
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ilmjumper
Bombproof!
1787 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 5:53:24 PM
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| I love love love doing my photography but I have to say it's taken a huge nose dive over the last 5 years or so...I used to only do equine and horse show photography but now I seem to do more wedding/portrait/type photos (I've gotten into "Trash the Dress" photography, which I LOVE doing!) I think with the massive availability of quality cameras that make it easy for even a technology challenged person ;) to take pretty nice pictures it's lessened the need for professionals. I've dropped my prices hugely this year and had to do a lot of free work just for publicity...it's a fun and extremely enjoyable thing, but don't bet your house on making a profit. |
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Steph A
Out to Pasture
USA
8067 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 7:54:34 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by OutlawsLastDance
I said something less than $100. I'd LOVE to have pictures of my horses, and really good ones that aren't fuzzy or blurry, or one ear back, or whatever. But, I spend SOO much money on them already, I'd rather spend that money on the stuff they need. But if it was really really affordable, I would absolutely LOVE to have someone good with a camera come take pictures.
I agree completely. I also agree that now is not the time to really start the business, but to build the portfolio. Of course you have a good start with beautiful pics of your own family of critters.
Good luck. |
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spookyrey
Bombproof!
1201 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 9:46:06 PM
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| There are so so many photographers out there now it's pathetic. Some are very very good, and are high priced and some aren't so good and are free. You have to get your name out there and network. Don't be afraid to hook up with other photographers either. Also, don't over price yourself as a lot of people have the mindset that with digital, all photos are good and why should I pay so much for a picture. Not necessarily true but that's what a lot think. I have seen those Sears and Walmart shots and though they are good, for the money you could pay some one much better, although tell that to my DIL. Anyway, I have yet to make any real money at it, but have done fashion shows, events, birthday parties, and ballets. It's all how you want to get out there. Basically, I charge for my time and not the pictures because most just want them on a DVD or put up on a web album. Get your name out there, put pictures on your business card and HAVE FUN with it all. wooo hooo |
I am officially half century! wooo hooo |
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spookyrey
Bombproof!
1201 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 10:01:00 PM
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| Howard, I do a lot of macro photography because I do bugs. It is interesting what the naked eye sees even through the lens and then you see the picture and you go WOW. Spiders are a great subject ;) |
I am officially half century! wooo hooo |
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PiaffePlease
Out to Pasture
2795 Posts |
Posted - 03/03/2010 : 10:57:35 PM
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quote:
Originally posted by Pepper
quote:
Originally posted by howard
Good point billie. My DIL is trying to get into photography too. She does a very good job, but I think she needs to take a couple courses. But she has been doing some photos for people and charging very little if anything at all.
I also studied photography way back when. In the good old days when we used film. And color photography was really really expensive. My problem is that any artistic ability was swept under the mat when I became an engineer.
Pepper I think your pictures are great. I am sure in a very little time word will get around. I would suggest just charging for gas at first.
What kind of camera do you have in mind? I really like my Nikon D40, D50 and D60. Its a long story how I got them all. I just planned on one.
Thanks again for sharing your thoughts! I do realize, that I'm not going to jump in this. But I would like to get started slowly. Most likely with just a little fee to cover gas.
I think photography has still a very good future, thinking of the internet world and good pictures needed for websites. Not to forget about the priceless memories.
Howard, I want the Nikon D90 with a darn expensive lens
For some reason I have no problem spending money on buying horses, lol. But such a small device for over 1000$
Plus the lense kept me thinking, and thinking, lol....
I bought the Nikon D 90 and I LOVE it. It took me a while to convince myself to buy it, but its worth it. You still need to know how to use it (the manual fuctions, etc) but its really nice.
Unfortunately, in these times, few people are wanting photos of their animals. Hopefully things will turn around soon. |
You cannot train a horse with shouts, and then expect him to obey a whisper. |
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Pepper
Out to Pasture
2922 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2010 : 07:11:18 AM
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You're ALL the best!!!
Thank you so very much for the feedback.
PiaffePlease> I know exactly what you're talking about. I want this camera for so long and keep holding off.....
I know I'll give in soon.   |
Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com
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lauralind
Out to Pasture
5113 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2010 : 08:08:54 AM
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I agree with whats been said, its a tough time and the increasing capabilities of lower priced cameras has changed things a bit.
However, its still about skill and having an "eye". You would do better to spend your time photographing every animal you can and master the camera you have now. It becomes a whole different ballgame when you start shooting for pay, the expectations from clients are high (as they should be !)
In terms of cameras, yes theres a certain degree of having good equipment, but you dont ask a cook who made you a fabulous meal, what kind of pan they used, right? Its the same principle. You can take exceptional photos with a simple camera, it just takes lots of practice and knowhow. |
Lots of people talk to animals, not very many listen, though, that's the problem" ~ Benjamin Hoff, The Tao of Pooh   |
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JC
Green Broke
USA
653 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2010 : 09:18:38 AM
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I have had professional shots done of all 4 of my dogs and I LOVED IT!!!! The actual photo shoot wasn't too expensive but to purchase the photos was more pricey. We only bought 1- 8x10 and 2- 5x7 for each dog.
I would love to have my horses done (in the spring when they don't have those ugly winter coats). But I can't afford to spend a crap load of money on it and I know my husband will not let me. I voted les than $100.
I agree with what everyone says here. Build up your portfolio first with your own pets, your friends' pets, or cheap sessions. Once you do that, you should have better luck. You might even want to team up or something with someone that already does photography. Like maybe someone that loves animals but can't "catch" them, so they only do people shots. You could join forces with them and they could be the people side and you could be the animal side. Or even someone that does dog/cat photography but isn't as comfortable around horses. You could do that.
I think being a good photographer also has to do with what computer software you have as well. The woman that did my dogs (Diane Lewis at dianelewisphotography.com/) has a computer program where she can remove the collar and leash from pics (for a charge). She did that for ours and it looks amazing!
If you want some guinea pigs for your portfolio, I can pay you some but not a whole crap load. I have 2 foster horses that I would love shots of. I will have a 3rd foster horse in April. All will be adopted by me most likely but I really want good shots of them for my house.
I have some shots of Jack (the HyPP horse that I leased at my house) up in our house that I just love. He passed away last year from a HyPP attack and every time I see those pictures, I tear up. I think photographs are so important. Especially photos of the eye of a horse. There is something about a horse's eye that connects you to their soul. I am so lucky that one of my foster horses allows me to kiss his eye lid. (i know weird but i love him a lot and the eyes are beautiful).
Anyway, that was long but good luck. If you want to make a drive out to Pittsboro this spring and take some shots of my boys, let me know a cost. I also have 2 mini goats and a mini donkey that I would love some shots of. And you have a good giggle at my goats. They are clowns! |
Jeremi |
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Humhill
Green Broke
USA
836 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2010 : 3:02:51 PM
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| My hubby and I got the D90 last spring and LOVE it!! We've taken some amazing pictures with it. I also use mine to do portraits of our horses. I can send you some of the pics we've taken. |
Take everything I say with a grain of salt...and a margarita...oh, and don't forget the lime!
Hummingbird Hill Farm ~ Miniatures, Morgans, and More!
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show_arab
Out to Pasture
USA
2607 Posts |
Posted - 03/04/2010 : 7:15:49 PM
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for your pricing decide if you want to charge a shoot fee and then charge by the photo and you keep the copyrights so that if the client wants a copy they must buy through you
or do you want to charge for the shoot and all photos and the client gets the copyright and can make as many copies as the want since they paid for them (the good and the bad)
or something in between
because that can make a big difference in pricing and maybe what ppl will be willing to pay |
"I'm so happy cause today I found my friends...They're in my head..." Nirvana, Lithium |
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Pepper
Out to Pasture
2922 Posts |
Posted - 03/05/2010 : 07:18:20 AM
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quote:
Originally posted by show_arab
for your pricing decide if you want to charge a shoot fee and then charge by the photo and you keep the copyrights so that if the client wants a copy they must buy through you
or do you want to charge for the shoot and all photos and the client gets the copyright and can make as many copies as the want since they paid for them (the good and the bad)
or something in between
because that can make a big difference in pricing and maybe what ppl will be willing to pay
I was trying to figure that out.
Looks like the hardest part to me
I think for the beginning I'll do just a fee for the session and put the pictures on either an online photoalbum, or on a cd-rom.
Later I'll charge for the prints. Because how much are those high quality printers again?
And I have the BEST HUSBAND EVER!!!
He called me last night and spoiled my birthday (which is not before the end of april) surprise and said the camera is on the way!!  YAY!!!! |
Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com
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spookyrey
Bombproof!
1201 Posts |
Posted - 03/05/2010 : 12:39:46 PM
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| WOOOO HOOOO you're going to love this camera, even though I have a Pentax, it still ranks with the Nikon and takes wonderful pictures HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!!!!!!! |
I am officially half century! wooo hooo |
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PiaffePlease
Out to Pasture
2795 Posts |
Posted - 03/05/2010 : 11:10:29 PM
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| yay, congrats on the camera. Youll love it!!! |
You cannot train a horse with shouts, and then expect him to obey a whisper. |
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Pepper
Out to Pasture
2922 Posts |
Posted - 03/07/2010 : 07:12:54 AM
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Thank you Spookeyrey and Piaffeplease!!!!
I can hardly wait. Didn't get here yet. 
Hopefully within the next 2 days |
Little Ridge Farm-Foundation Quarter Horses- www.littleridgefarms.com
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Photography session...
