Photography work frustrations...

[Shant M]

Hey guys,

I have been trying to expand my business and get some more work, however there are problems... The more I look for gigs, craiglist, freelance websites, the more I see gigs that are TF, free, $10-12 an hour or when I tell them my rate they tell me I'm too "up there for me" mind you my rates I have been quoting are around 100 or under an hour. I placed a search on craigslist with the query "photographer" and instantly got thousands of "pros" offerin to do free photoshoots, weddings for 2-600 a day etc. Sadly I have realized most brides are pretty ignorant when it comes to knowing how to spot a bad photog from a good one so a $300 weddin photographer may be a great deal.

I have done my share of free and volunteer work but the way I see it is they build my portfolio but have no real gateway to paid work when you are already doing the same work for free.

I pass out business cards everywhere, ask pros to help weddings but I just can't get this ball really going with all these cheap offers or professionals selling themselves so cheaply. I want to establish a clientele and make a name but I guess I just don't have the right know-how.

How do you guys overcome the demand from clients for free or little paying work? Do I just have to "pay my dues"? I'm not trying to rush this process but I guess I want some help and maybe hear some of your stories of how you guys have gotten to where you are.

- Shant