Notes from the Studio

1
21
2010

Billing Work Flow

 

I’ve always been curious about what work flow people have for billing. I know there are many great programs and online solutions. My work flow is always changing, so I need flexible tools. I prefer software-based solutions rather then web-only based solutions because the software solutions can be integrated with the OS better. I’m often on location and need to be able to access information when I don’t have an internet connection.

I use Blinkbid for my contacts, estimates and invoices.

Belanger-work-1
 
I use iCal for my calendar along with OX server to host my own iCal server. This allows me to add and edit the calendar from all my computers and from my iPhone. The other thing I’ve found really useful about iCal is keeping track of billing. In the notes area of every job on the calendar I add the date when I invoiced the client and when payment was received. I also add a link to the original email that was sent and attach a copy of the invoice. 
 
Belanger-work-22
 
During the project I need to keep track of expenses that will help me when invoicing the client. For this I use Evernote. I have a job log in Evernote that my assistant or I can fill out. The great thing about Evernote is that I can edit the job log from my iPhone, web or a desktop client.
 
Belanger-work-3
 
When I’m on location I use Scanner Pro on my iPhone to add receipts. Scanner Pro then sends the receipts to Evernote. It makes adding receipts fun and easy.
 
Belanger-work-4
 
After everything is billed and payment is received I use Quickbooks to keep track of everything for the accountant. 

Comments

  1. Avatar

    thanks for posting this. great info.

  2. Avatar

    I Peter, I’m a italian photographer and your big fan.
    Sorry for my english, your works are amazing and your organization in great!! and your blog is very intresting!!!
    I have one question for you if is possible. (i know are tech..) but the tech for the photographers now in digital era is very important.
    What is the workflow for capture one p+65? and canon dsm3.
    and your approch to light for shinny or glass or silver material.
    thank’s
    Marco.

  3. Avatar

    Marco,
    Those are all things I plan on talking about in future posts, so keep checking back.

  4. Avatar

    Wait a minute… let me get this straight… you invoiced a magazine on the 3rd and got paid on the 29th. Ok, I’m getting this software immediately!

  5. Avatar

    Jeff, I was wondering if anyone would notice that. I think I got lucky and they wanted to pay me before the end of the year.

  6. Avatar

    Hi Peter! Great post and thanks so much for your tips and information. You’re a great mentor!! I was just wondering if you had a recommendation for software that helps to track hours while working on a project?

  7. Avatar

    Jason there’s lots of time tracking software on the market. I don’t bill by the hour so I haven’t used one. Here’s one that people have been happy with http://www.billingsapp.com/