Creating Photo Requests

Learn how to create and submit photo requests to connect with local photographers.

Step 1: Choose Your Location

Start by selecting where you need the photo taken:

  • Click on the interactive map to pin the exact location
  • Or use the address search bar to find a specific place
  • The map will show a red marker at your selected location
  • You can adjust the pin by clicking a different spot on the map

💡 Tip: Be as specific as possible with your location. The more precise you are, the easier it is for photographers to find the exact spot.

Step 2: Describe What You Need

Provide clear details about your photo request:

  • Title: A brief, descriptive name for your request (e.g., "Sunset at Golden Gate Bridge")
  • Description: Explain what you want photographed and why
  • Photographer Instructions: Add specific details like angles, time of day, or special requirements

✅ Good Example: "I need a photo of the Empire State Building from street level, looking up. Please capture it during golden hour (around 6-7 PM) with clear skies if possible."

Step 3: Set Your Timeline

Choose when you need the photo taken:

  • Select a specific date and time using the date/time picker
  • Consider time zones and local weather conditions
  • Allow photographers enough time to accept and prepare
  • For time-sensitive requests, consider offering a higher budget
Step 4: Set Your Budget

Determine how much you're willing to pay:

  • Enter your maximum budget in dollars
  • Photographers can bid at or below your budget
  • Higher budgets typically attract more bids faster
  • Consider factors like location difficulty, timing, and complexity

💰 Pricing Guide: Simple photos: $20-50 | Standard requests: $50-150 | Complex/urgent requests: $150-500+

Step 5: Privacy Options

Choose whether to post anonymously:

  • Public Request: Your name and profile are visible to photographers
  • Anonymous Request: Your identity is hidden; photographers see "Anonymous" instead
  • Anonymous requests still allow full communication through the platform
Step 6: Add Payment Method & Submit

Complete your request submission:

  • Add a valid credit/debit card for payment authorization
  • Your card will be authorized but not charged until you approve the final photo
  • Review all details carefully before submitting
  • Click "Submit Request" to post it to photographers in the area

🔒 Payment Security: We use Square for secure payment processing. Your card is authorized when a photographer is assigned, but funds are only captured after you approve the delivered photo.

What Happens Next?

After submitting your request:

  1. Your request appears on the Browse Requests page for photographers in the area
  2. Photographers can submit bids with their proposed price and message
  3. You'll receive email notifications when new bids arrive
  4. Review bids on your "My Requests" page and accept the one you prefer
  5. Once accepted, the photographer will take and upload the photo
  6. You'll review the photo and either approve (payment released) or request changes