Should you take a photography gig for free or not is a question that all photographers encounter (aside from hobbyist) at some point in time. A photographer that is initially starting out trying to build their portfolio usually does not have a choice but to take a free photography assignment. Now, the real challenge or hurdle that several photographers battle with is converting from free photography assignments to paid photography assignments.
So, the question Shoot for free or not? For those who consider themselves as a professional photographer, then absolutely not. Now, there is an exception to the rule and that exception is what do you value as currency? Currency comes in different forms besides the obvious currency that we thrive for (i.e. cash, tender, money, etc...). Here is the exception to the rule; if you feel that the assignment is going to provide you with great photography that you can market or the assignment is with a great company and you feel that taking this assignment will benefit you then you should consider taking the assignment. If the assignment does not offer 1 of 2 exceptions to the then you should get paid for the assignment.
One of the traps that photographers fall prey to is working with clients that have a limited budget (i.e. cannot pay you) and the client promises you paid work in the future. Usually this type of arrangement seldom comes to reality so, be careful when you deal with clients that promise you future paid work if you take an assignment for free. A true photography professional knows how to identify and walk away from a fruitless assignment. Clients know that professional photography services come at a fee and if a client knows that you will take an assignment for free it will be very hard for you to charge the client for future assignments.
- D. Reid
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