How to minimize “How much do you charge” messages that lead to nothing. #Videographers + #Photographers

Moses Vega
Aug 23, 2017 · 4 min read

If you’re a videographer, photographer, graphic designer or offer some type of creative service, there is one question you receive multiple times a week. How much do you charge? While there are people who are seriously inquiring with you, it seems to me that even more people are just curious. I’m a videographer. I create wedding films, real-estate videos, testimonial videos, events and music videos. I find that when it comes to music videos, I get this question the most. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve responded to an inquiry and have not received a response. It used to happen to me multiple times a week.

I’ve got good news and bad news. The bad news is — it’s never going to stop. The good news is — you can drastically decrease these type of messages and start to filter who’s really serious and who you want to work with. Before I tell you how, I want to put this out there. I think it’s impossible to have a set price for a music video. There’s no template to it. Sure, you can have a starting price — but saying you charge $500 for every means you’re not thinking things through. When you start to work with clients that need things like built sets, models, cars, etc. you’ll see that having a budget is important. That’s not to say that if a musician want’s a one location shoot you should charge him $150 either. Have a base price — something that is worth you going out there, filming, and coming back to edit. My point is, not every music video is the SAME — which makes the question “ How much do you charge” a stupid one.

Usually, I want to learn more about what my clients are looking for. What is their vision for the video? What will it take to make that vision come to life? So here is something every creator should have — a form. Wether it’s integrated into your website or not. You need one. See mine below.

I’ve saved hours and hours of replying to countless emails asking how much I charge for music videos every since switching to this format. As you can see, there is a requirement to input your budget for your idea/vision. This is the easiest way for me to see if I’m going to be able to work with someone or not. If the budget is too low, I will reply via email thanking them for their inquiry and kindly declining the project. I’ve done this many times and have had people RAISE their budgets. It’s been a lot of help. I’m not innovating a new idea here. This has been done by many. But I constantly see some of peers complaining about this issue and thought this would be a good idea to provide tips that have been working for me. Not only does my form ask for the budget we are working with — it’s asks for the ideas and visions of the artist(s). Which is important for any videographer to know so you don’t just go in blind.

Here’s another thing. If you don’t have a website set up, YOU CAN STILL USE THIS FORM. The website Jotform.com allows you to create your own customized form. On your form, you can ask the questions that are important for your business, customize colors and even add your logo. There is a free and priced version that removes adds and gives you data about who’s clicking on your link. I think it’s a great tool to use. See it below.

If you have your own website, chances are you’ve already experienced the benefits of using a form such as this one. If not, then GET A SITE AND GET A FORM. Your life will change.

)

Moses Vega

Written by

I'm either a videographer , cinematographer or filmmaker... one of those but I'm not sure.

Welcome to a place where words matter. On Medium, smart voices and original ideas take center stage - with no ads in sight. Watch
Follow all the topics you care about, and we’ll deliver the best stories for you to your homepage and inbox. Explore
Get unlimited access to the best stories on Medium — and support writers while you’re at it. Just $5/month. Upgrade