Advice needed, business with friends

[Ranchu]

I know that, it's also a blast and valuable experience. The reason I'm talking about profit is because all this revolves around valuing intangibles in terms of money. The OP says:

"I'm putting a lot of my own time on the book, mainly because I want to do a good job regardless, I don't like to feel that my time is not valuable that's why I'm trying to put a price on it. I guess it's a matter of asking friends for money more than the actual amount "

If you don't have an agreement up front, you'll be shanghai-ing your friends with a bill. Or you'll all be mumbling/haggling around awkwardly. Who needs it?

If you shot well and made a good book and got nothing over costs, you're still up on the deal and so are they. Happy shooting!

 

[BLKRCAT]

A handy flow chart for these types of situations:

http://shouldiworkforfree.com/

Jessica Hische! Shes pretty awesome. I saw her speak a couple years ago. Very talented hard worker

 

[Scrambler]

I know that, it's also a blast and valuable experience. The reason I'm talking about profit is because all this revolves around valuing intangibles in terms of money. The OP says:

"I'm putting a lot of my own time on the book, mainly because I want to do a good job regardless, I don't like to feel that my time is not valuable that's why I'm trying to put a price on it. I guess it's a matter of asking friends for money more than the actual amount "

If you don't have an agreement up front, you'll be shanghai-ing your friends with a bill. Or you'll all be mumbling/haggling around awkwardly. Who needs it?

If you shot well and made a good book and got nothing over costs, you're still up on the deal and so are they. Happy shooting!

I'm in complete agreement with you, Ranchu. Kinda freaks me, but I am.

Lauffray, if this is your time, you are free to spend it how you wish. Learning new skills, perfecting old ones and giving pleasure to friends are valuable things in their own rights. No need to get money. But do be sure that any gifting is without grudge on your part.

I think the common theme is that friendship is more valuable than money. To avoid conflict people have clear, even rigid, rules. I see three options given: never charge friends, never work for friends, or always get clear agreement up front of expectations on both sides. Chose one and stick to it from now on.