This Photo Is Not Free

Take a look at this article about doing free creative work, specifically photography in this case...
http://www.petapixel.com/2012/01/10/this-photograph-is-not-free/

I'm going to avoid his "cost" analysis, because you should not factor in total supply price for each picture...that's like charging for the total amount of all paint and canvas that I've bought in my life for the thing I did yesterday. That's not very accurate and distracts from the point.

Now, I like the sentiment of it. I get the point...and he's right. Don't let yourself get taken advantage of and don't let people think that creative work comes free. HOWEVER!!!!!! I'd really caution against this overall mentality when dealing with your work. Here's my comment on it.

I understand totally what this is saying but, as an artist myself, I simply don't agree. Yes, you want to get paid what you think your craft is worth. Believe me, if I could sell my work for 10K per piece I would. but sometimes that just not how the world works. If I turned down every opportunity I had to "get exposure" instead of money, I'd have far less money, exposure, sales and interest. If I denied everyone's offer because I didn't feel it was enough, I'd sell almost nothing. If I charged as this guy did and had the attitude that this post has, I'd never get the long relationships with clients that I do. I'd never get repeat customers who WANT to buy things from me. I'd never get my foot in some of the doors that have been so important for me. 

Part of why I am doing alright as an artist is that I act in the opposite way of this post. I am open to those interested in my work, I am reasonable with getting people images that they are interested in, and I enjoy working with those that don't fully understand what it is that I do. I don't assume I'm something that other people should be impressed by.

I don't know exactly what my point is...I suppose, this is a good "ideal" to have. You should stand up for yourself, your work, and make sure that you are not getting used, disrespected, or cheated...However, if you're starting out and this is the attitude you take, I think you'll be sorely disappointed with where it gets you. Not only will people assume you're arrogant and egotistical, but simply put, they'll find something else. As good as that photo may be, there are a million other photographers battling for the same client, and they'll find the photographer that works best with them. 

Should you always do free events, accept trades, or "get exposure"? No. But taking the stance of "I'm worth more and if you don't realize that, it's your fault and your loss" isn't going to help you either. Losing a client is not their loss, its yours...they can choose from any number of people, you, unless you're ultra famous, rely on them choosing you.

I guess I just caution. DONT BE A DICK. DONT BE ARROGANT. DONT RESTRICT YOURSELF. Do that which will benefit your career. Avoid what won't. Not all money is good, not all free stuff is bad.Just weigh every opportunity individually...and you'll find what works for you.