Privilege-Based Sliding Scale
I recognize the chaos that our current economic system has created, and envision another model. However, even as I work toward a new model in building community, fighting for justice, and creating accountable institutions I realize we are not there yet. The sliding scale is one way of acknowledging differences in wealth, income, costs, and privilege and actively address the economic disparities in our communities and society. The sliding scale is a way to say no to the way things are and yes to the way they can be while providing support for all.
*This privilege-based sliding scale model was adapted from ABM Tattoo.
Consider Paying Less If You:
• are a person who experiences racism directed at you, or via systemic oppression
• are a black, brown, indigenous, or otherwise non-white person
• are transgender and experience trans related discrimination and/or violence regularly
• are gay/queer and experience related discrimination and/or violence regularly
• have medical expenses not covered by insurance
• have been denied work
• are eligible for public assistance
• have immigration-related expenses
• are a sex worker who experiences occupational discrimination (personal or legislative)
• are an unpaid community organizer
• are a returning citizen who has been denied work due to incarceration history
• are supporting children or have other dependents
• are an elder with limited financial support
Consider Paying More If You:
• own the home you live in
• have investments, retirement accounts, or inherited money
• travel recreationally
• have access to family money and resources in times of need
• work part time by choice
• have a relatively high degree of earning power due to level of education, gender privilege, racial privilege, class background, etc. Even if you are not currently exercising your earning power, I ask you to recognize this as a choice.
Sliding Scale
Root Session
about 1 hour of photography
in your home or a private outdoor location
20-image digital gallery
$275 to $875
Primary Session
about 2 hours of photography
in your home and/or a private outdoor location
40-image digital gallery
$575 to $1,175
Other Considerations:
When I pay more, I know that I am helping support Heather Whitten. When I pay in the middle, I know I am helping cover costs. (Such as additional training and supplies.) When I pay at the bottom, I know I am letting my community hold me and support me. All of these are acceptable ways of participating. I recognize that some people may not be able to afford the low end of the scale. Please let me know and we can work something out.
The scale is intended to be a map, inviting each of us to take inventory of our financial resources and look deeper at our levels of privilege. It is a way to challenge our capitalist society we live in and work towards economic justice on a local level. While I ask you to take these factors into consideration, please don’t stress about it. Pay what feels right. I will not ask questions or quiz you on your payment choices!