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Freelance Photographer Rate Calculator
Set your target income and costs to find your minimum rate as a freelance photographer. The default of 18 billable hours a week is typical for photographers once admin and sales are included — at $80,000 take-home that is $155.58 an hour.
Freelance Photographer Rate Calculator
Minimum hourly rate828 billable hours/year → revenue $128,822
Day rate (8 h)
$1,245
Half-day rate
$622
Weekly retainer
$2,800
Monthly retainer
$10,735
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Revenue needed | $128,822 |
| Business expenses | $6,000 |
| Tax & contributions | $31,111 |
| Buffer | $11,711 |
| Your take-home | $80,000 |
Most freelancers bill 50–70% of the hours they work — admin, sales and learning are unpaid. Price projects from this hourly floor plus the value you deliver.
Estimates for information only — not financial, tax or investment advice. Rates and rules change; confirm with an official source or a qualified professional. Disclaimer
Pricing tips for photographers
- Quote projects (e.g. “Product photoshoot (half day)”) from your hourly floor × estimated hours × 1.2 for revisions and risk.
- Raise rates for rush work, retainers you must keep free for, and usage rights.
- Review your rate every 6–12 months or when your calendar is full.
Frequently asked questions
Is my data uploaded?
No. The calculation runs entirely in your browser — nothing you type is sent to a server.
Is it free?
Yes — free, unlimited and no sign-up.