Dear Dave,

I’m starting a photography business on the side to help generate extra income. I have friends who’ve told me they’d like to use my services. However, I feel weird about charging them, because they’re friends. How do I get past that?

Daniel

Dear Daniel,

I understand how you might feel weird taking money from friends, yet you’re providing a service, and you’ve opened this business to make money. They’re going to pay another photographer if you don’t do the job, so why shouldn’t they have the fun of working with someone they already know and like?

There’s a psychology at work here. If you comp or discount them now, they may never see you as a true professional. But if you charge them a fair price, you’ll be establishing yourself as a pro.

Still uncomfortable? Tell them you’ll do the work free of charge this time if they’ll help you find six new clients. There’s nothing wrong with a trade, especially when you’re starting out. Just make sure you get something worthwhile in the deal!

- Dave Continued...