What do you charge?

So I'm getting a few bites on the belly painting, but NO bookings. Nothing. People hear the price and they run. I've been quoting $75 flat fee for the whole shebang, and it seems like that is a deal-killer.

I just can't figure how to make it worth the time. I spend a couple hours working on designs ahead of time. Go to someone's house, which requires finding a sitter for my kids. Then spend 1.5 to 2 hours painting. For a face painting event that would run $130 plus travel, so I'm already taking a hit if I book a belly instead of a party (which hasn't happened, but, you know, hypothetically). I realize the client's not looking at it that way, but...gah.

Just frustrating. What are you all finding to be the going rate? I can't keep offering these for free forever.

I am trying to figure out my rates as well. But to be honest, I don't think you should lower your rate. You could offer a discount, or offer it as a special for a little less. But I would make clear that they are in fact getting a discount.
Compare it to how much a normal photographer would charge for a maternity photoshoot.
There will always be people who want freebies. I also have kids and need to find a sitter sometimes to be able to work. If you lower your rate you will loose money instead of making any.
And judging from your avatar, I think people actually get a deal if you only charge 75$.

I just looked at your website, and $75 is a steal for your paintings! I would pay that. (If I was pregnant that is) Some ideas, find a good, but less expensive photographer, and then do a painting/Photo session. Some how the package deal might sound less expensive to them. Also, where are you looking for the mommies to be? If you get your photos in high end boutiques with their maternity things, or at some of the nicer doctors offices, etc. You may find the clients you are looking for. Just so you know, when describing belly painting to people and they say "oh, like a basketball" I spent some time looking for your picture, because I had seen it before, to show them, they are much more than that.

Good Luck!

Aw. Thanks, fairyfox - your encouragement is well-timed!

I do need to get more photos out to high-end places - so far my ads in consignment sales and craigslist are the ones getting the freak-out at the price, go figure!

Brainstorming ideas for places to put flyers. Where do crunchy pregnant moms hang out? (I think these are the types most likely to glory in the whole paint-my-belly experience). Birth centers. Yoga studios? Chiropractic offices? I need to contact a few local doulas. Hm!

you could also try Spas that offer packages for pregnant women.

I'm only charging $40 per belly painting, which works out to $1 per minute that the design should take. My first one took 40 minutes, so that's what I'm going off of. I've also teamed up with a photographer for a $60 belly painting & photoshoot package, which means we each make $30. It's a bit low for me... but I want to start off low, and if there is demand we'll raise our price.