How Much should you expect to pay for 12 pictures for your daughters modeling portfolio. Theodore Muran is quoting me 800 for 12 portfolio pictures. Is this fair?

You don't need a professional portfolio when you are starting out, you need a few snapshots where one can see face and body clearly (from the front and side) and take them to a legit model agency. They'll create a portfolio with you and take fee's when you start working.

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There are two ways to answer this question. One, that is an extraordinary amount to charge and you can find other pro photographers who will charge less. Most photographers charge between $200-600 for basic portfolio shoots. You also have the option of doing free test shoots with pro photographers, known as TFP (time for prints) or TFCD (time for CD of images). Test shoots are a free exchange of services between the model and photographer. If money is tight, you should find photographers that offer test shoots before paying out of pocket.

Second, it is important to realize that a photoshoot involves shooting hundreds of photos and then picking the final ones. It isn't like you are paying the photographer to only shoot 12 pictures. It doesn't work that way.

It would be in your best interest to find several other photographers and ask what they would charge for a basic photoshoot for your daughter and then compare prices to see which one works best for you. Chances are you will find more reasonable/affordable rates and get more in return. The best shoots are the ones where you can get all of the photoshoot images on a CD as well as being able to choose which ones you want retouched, printed, etc.