A question for "professionals"

[RustBeltRaw]

My number for gear seems to be a lot higher than his though, and I'd have to pick it apart to tell you exactly why but I'm around $7,000 - $9,000

All of my main gear is used. I'm patient about finding deals, and I have a friend at a very good used camera gear store who keeps an eye out for me.

[shreds]

I will add that trying to 'educate' someone is always going to be difficult whilst they have $$ in front of their eyes. I would go so far as to suggest that with some, you offer to take them on a shoot, and let them see how much work goes into it and what the differences are…throw them a camera and ask them to take (better) shots. (If they do…employ them!)

This certainly isn't practical in many circumstances, but I know that when somebody does experience what I am doing and what I am up to, the price drops out of their head and they want to know whether I can do the same for them.

If someone rings up asking what price I will do a job for, in most cases I am not that bothered if they go elsewhere. My skills are at a certain price point and that has been pre-calculated.

There often is a certain snobbery about what they pay…many years ago I was taught a valuable lesson by a friend and colleague…..you should cast the seed of doubt in their minds…if they say they can get the job done for $XXX then suggest they go use them. After all you get what you pay for!!!!

Sometimes you have to believe in your own abilities.