I Have No Idea!!

[Lindsie Nicole]

So lately my friends have been wanting me to take their pictures and stuff. Which I'm totally fine with! I mean they are my friends But last night my neighbor asked me if I could take pictures of her and her date before prom. Again I'm fine with it but I feel like people keep asking me to take their pictures and I don't get paid for it.. I don't want to be taken advantage of but I'm only 15. And I have fun doing it... I just don't want to get older and people still expect me to take pictures for free... you know what i'm saying?

I don't know what I'm supposed to do...

Lindsie

[Jim Bryant]

Get the experience and have fun. When they start asking for Senior Portraits, then charge.

[LeeR]

I'm with Jim on this; have fun, make lots of friends, figure out if this is something you would like to do professionally. If so, see if you can't find a local photographer you could work with, even if you have to do that for free as well. You want to be so good when you do start charging that people will feel like they are getting a bargain.

[Rina Minca]

I would also say that you should find an established photographer to work with. Maybe as an afterschool job or internship. Then, you'll get real business experience and after you finish school you could start a business with experience.
For the most part, though, just enjoy yourself!

[Indigo November]

I know how you feel. I'm fifteen too and I've got the same problem. But whatever, we're young, the last 3 posters gave some great advice.

[Xaviera]

Lindsey, I've seen your photos and you have tons of potential, I think you should charge minimally (to support your habit, lol) and that way they all know you mean business. You may be young, but your not stupid. They are asking you because they believe in your work, you've got to get something in return for it. At least ask for a model release to use the photos for promotional reasons, at least! Great photos though, great potential!

[bardman]

I wouldn't worry too much about charging right now. Use each occasion to practice your craft. Having started so early, in a couple of years you'll be primed to charge for your work and you will have done so much trial and error and worked on finding your (always evolving) style that it will all come together nicely. As others have said, you obviously are already doing good work, and as importantly, you have the personality for the work. The future is bright. All the best.