I find it difficult to charge community theaters for photography when many productions are unable to compensate their actors. I aim to get photos of every actor even minor ones that are on the stage for 5 mins. To me it is highly imported to get the actors photos to remember the production.

Because of that, for theaters that do not pay their actors or only offer token payments (generally under $100 per person per show), I prefer to structure my work as a value exchange rather than a traditional paid arrangement. 

Since these exchanges are normally not equivalent, I am not able to take time off from my full-time work for these projects. If the value exchange exceeds the market value then normal time frames would apply just as if I was paid. As such, timelines for non equivalent shoots are structured as follows:

• Production photos: Delivered within 1–2 days for enough for marketing photos. 1 day - 2 weeks for full production photos. 

• Promotional / staged photos: delivered within 5–14 days

• Mini Headshot sessions: untouched/light edits delivered at end of shoot if at studio. 5-14 days if remote. 

To accommodate this, please plan accordingly for example:

• Scheduling dress rehearsal at least two days before opening night if photos are needed

• Or scheduling a dressed Q2Q run

Since I am taking photos, I do not need a full uninterrupted run of the show. Full lines and pacing are not required only facial expressions, costumes, set, and lighting are needed.

Below are options that can be used in lieu of payment. I ask that theaters select any options they are comfortable with to help move toward a fair exchange. To help give an idea of what I value the ideas as I have included my view of how much I would pay for each idea.

Exchange Ideas

Marketing & Visibility

• • Advertisement placements in the show program

  • Inclusion in newsletters, or website features as a sponsor. ($75)

  • Small promo for my services in programs or lobby areas ($25-$75)

  • Mentioned in the curtain speech ($75-$200)

  • Mentioned in a speech to the actors ($25)

  • 5 - 15 minute intro talk at first rehearsal or cast meeting ($25) 

  • Ability to display subtle on-site branding (small sign, cards, logo placement, or banner, flag advertisement )($10-$150 depending on placement and size)

  • Part of a preshow slide show of sponsors that is projected on the stage ($50-$200).

    (Note: I do have multiple companies, so these can be repeated multiple times)

Space & Physical Resources

• • Use of theater space(s) for unrelated paid/unpaid photography sessions (scheduled in advance) ($50-$200/hour)

  • Access to costume closet, props, or set pieces for external shoots ($50 - $200 per shoot)

    1. Items will be returned in equal or better condition

Creative Collaboration

• • Themed or stylized shoots using cast and/or costumes in alternate concepts ($100–$300)

    1. All content will remain SFW

    2. Images may be used by both the theater and participants

    3. Experimental or artistic shoots that expand beyond the original production’s tone

       1. All collaboration involving actors will be done with their explicit consent

       2. A concept board will be shared in advance so all participants can review and sign off on the creative direction before any shoot takes place

TheStageDB & Casting Support

• • Theater can agree to list productions and casting information on TheStageDB ($25)

    1. This is not exclusive other platforms can still be used.

    2. The goal is simply to ensure accurate and complete information is available

  • Theater can agree to provide feedback on TheStageDB to help improve the platform ($25)

  • Include a QR code in the program that links to theStageDB.com's listing of the shows photos and ask Audience to share photos from there on social's. ($50 - $250)

  • Theater can encourage (but not require) actors and team members to register on TheStageDB

Addition options I can provide to you.

Cast and Crew Mini Headshots

• • I can offer a free mini headshot session to participating cast and crews (optional) while I am there or in a group at my home studio. (Value + : $50 per person )

    1. “Mini” sessions are designed to be quick and production-focused:

       1. Single look (clean, neutral / corporate style).

       2. Intended for use in programs, lobby displays, and casting materials

    2. Actors or BTS members who want additional looks or more personalized sessions can book full sessions at a discounted rate.

    3. Opportunity for cast and crew to walk away with a usable, current headshot while not ideal for auditions they are still better than a selfie.

       2. 1. 1. Auditions headshots should help the director see you in the role this is not that. Additionally this is not. 2 - 4 X amount above for film noir due to its technical difficulty and expense. Film noir is perfect for black and white programs.

  • I can also offer mini old Hollywood film noir style headshots these give that old Hollywood look and are perfect for black and white playbills.

• Note: I do not have to do your promo or production shots for you to get this deal. However, they would need to take place at my home studio during off time. You would just make the value trade for your cast and crews headshots only.