I've just recently started doing boudoir photography, though I have been doing many other types of photography for years. The first shoot I did was with TennesseeTootsie and she ripped me off. I made the mistake of giving her her pictures, 104 pictures that she uses on different sites, before the whole barter deal was done, then she went silent on me. I did one more shoot then decided that I'll not be doing the barter deal anymore, unless I am confident in the provider that I won't be taken for a ride (and not that kind of ride). I decided to start here due to the number of women who might want this type of photography, plus I'm not fully convinced I want to add this to my business website as an option. So I'm more testing the waters.
I've been contacted by a few providers about pictures and when I give my prices I don't hear back. First off, that is fine with me and not something I'm complaining about. I don't apologize for my rates because I'm good at what I do and I make enough money outside of this that I don't need the work. I have two shoots this weekend alone outside this hobby, so I am busy enough as it is.
So what is it that you ladies are looking for in pictures? If you want cheap pictures or selfies, I get it. There are plenty that will do that for you or you can take care of it yourself. I don't blame you for doing that, I would too. But I don't take cheap pictures and if my name is going to be on it, it's going the be the best I can possibly give you.
My other question is, have you checked prices in town? (that's more rhetorical than anything). I don't know if my prices are scaring you off or not, but again, it doesn't matter in the long run. Here is what Kara Marie Boudoir charges: $2,200 - $8,830. Now I don't offer everything she does, but my prices aren't nearly that high either. Another couple of studios start with a $500 deposit (deposit only, no pictures). Then one more says, "Most clients plan to invest between $875 – $2,500 on the entire experience (session + print and digital products)."
I'll not share my rates as I'm not seeking anything more than information. I don't care if I don't get any business, as I said, I don't need it. I'm just curious what you ladies who are actually wanting professional pictures feel is an appropriate fee, or would you rather go to a studio that specializes is boudoir photography?
BTW-just a heads-up in defense of every photographer/studio out there, there is much more than just pointing a camera and pulling the trigger when it comes to even simple photography. Anyone can do that. And the camera does not make one a photographer, it's the "eye" behind the camera that makes great pictures. Plus there's a lot of pre- and post- production work done, especially if you want your pictures the best they can be. Personally I usually spend at least double the time of the shoot in post production work.