What to Charge? A Practical Guide to Pricing Photographer Services in New Zealand

Pricing photography services in New Zealand can feel like a balancing act with different event types, client needs, and technical challenges. This friendly guide offers practical tips to help photographers, both freelancers and those running studios, set fair and competitive prices that attract and retain local clients.

Here are some tips that you might find interesting:

1. Understand Your Full Cost Base

Start by adding up all your expenses-camera gear, lenses, lighting, editing software, travel, insurance, and your time for shooting, editing, and client meetings.

For example, urban photographers in Auckland may have higher studio rental and equipment costs compared to those in smaller towns like Nelson who might work mostly on location.

Calculating your full costs ensures your pricing is sustainable and profitable.

2. Research Local Market Rates

Explore rates charged by other photographers in your region through platforms like Yada, TradeMe Services, and industry bodies.

Prices in Wellington might be higher due to demand, while smaller centres like Whanganui could have lower average rates.

Understanding your local market helps you price competitively and realistically.

3. Decide Between Hourly and Package Rates

Some photographers prefer hourly rates for flexibility, others offer fixed packages for events like weddings or portraits.

A Christchurch photographer may charge $120-$150 per hour or packages ranging from $1,200 for wedding coverage.

Choose the pricing approach that best fits your style and client expectations.

4. Account for Project Complexity

Complex shoots involving multiple locations, special equipment or extensive editing should command higher fees.

Nelson photographers charge more for commercial shoots requiring product photography or detailed retouching.

Be clear how complexity influences price when talking to clients.

5. Include Editing and Revisions in Pricing

Determine if basic editing and a set number of revisions are included or if they incur extra fees.

One Wellington portrait artist offers packages including up to three revisions, charging separately beyond that.

Clear policies prevent misunderstandings and protect your time.

6. Be Transparent About Extra Charges

State clearly any additional fees-for example, travel beyond a certain distance, rush orders, or special requests.

Tauranga photographers typically add charges for travel over 50km or evening shoots.

Transparency fosters trust and professionalism.

7. Showcase Your Skills and Portfolio

Highlight your qualifications, experience, and best work on Yada or your website to justify your pricing.

A Tauranga photographer promoting awards and high-profile clients often commands premium rates.

Clients are willing to pay more when they see proven expertise.

8. Gather and Display Client Testimonials

Collect reviews from satisfied customers and feature them prominently to build trust.

An Auckland photographer credits online testimonials on Yada for helping spread word-of-mouth and winning repeat business.

Social proof is a powerful tool for attracting new clients.

9. List Your Services on Local Platforms

Increase visibility by listing on Yada, TradeMe Services, and local directories tailored to New Zealand audiences.

Yada’s no lead or success fees let you keep more of your earnings while reaching local clients effectively.

Its mobile-friendly platform makes managing inquiries and bookings straightforward.

10. Communicate Clearly and Personalise Quotes

Use Yada’s chat or phone calls to discuss each client’s specific needs before confirming pricing.

A Christchurch photographer often adjusts quotes after understanding the event scale and client expectations.

Personalised communication fosters satisfied clients and repeat bookings.

11. Avoid Underpricing Your Services

Don’t undercut your value to win jobs. Instead, focus on professionalism, quality, and the unique qualities you bring.

Christchurch photographers charging fair rates with reliable portfolios tend to secure steady work.

Kiwis appreciate paying fairly for trustworthy, high-quality photography.

12. Review and Update Pricing Regularly

Review your pricing every 6-12 months considering market trends, experience growth, and client feedback.

Yada’s data insights on bookings and ratings can help guide these decisions.

Regular adjustments keep your business healthy and competitive.

13. Network With Local Businesses

Develop relationships with event planners, wedding venues, and local businesses for referrals and partnerships.

One Wellington photographer widened their bookings through referrals from a popular local wedding coordinator.

Building community connections supports steady work and justified pricing.