What types of arrangements do you have with these service providers? In the past I have not received any compensation, but seeing as I am providing the customers, my time, and a location for all of the work to take place it doesn't seem quite right. Please advise as to how you work with these vendors.

My photographer gives me a 20% cut of photo sales.

My videographer gives me $10 per video after the first 60 sold. I usually sell 120+, so it works for us.

Hi,

Speak of videographers, can anyone recommend a videographer in the PA/Montgomery County area? We are outside of Philadelphia and New Jersey.

Thanks!

You are literally putting money into their hands. They should share some of what they make from your captive audience.

I'm on the other end of this as a dance-photographer. I give studios 25% of sales (after costs - so maybe I should say 25% of profits). I wouldn't have it any other way.

I don't want to downplay my profession because it is hard work just like dancing/choreographing but the reality is that dance studios are pretty easy as far as photography goes. The costumes and poses are pretty much set for me and the sales are very simple since moms love the pictures. So I'm grateful to the SO's for the work and I show that by sharing the profits. I also give the studio free 12x16's of all the group shots and a free family session for the owner to use themselves or give away as a gift/prize. If they use the session themselves I give them 25% off on print orders, if they give it away I give them 25% of print sales on that too.

It may seem like a lot to give away but it pays off for me in the long run since I've now done weddings, family sessions, maternity and infant work all with families I met doing recital photos.

Find a photographer who knows the value of having access to your families and will work with you long term to benefit both your businesses. Owning both, I can tell you that the profit margin is higher in a photo studio than a dance studio so don't feel like you are hurting the photographer - if they know their business they have plenty of room to share with you