Okay, let’s break it down. Bil Zelman has 26 years of experience in photography, which is a significant amount of time. He’s worked as a photographer/director at Zelman Studios, which suggests a strong portfolio and possibly some creative direction skills. Location is Encinitas, California, which is a desirable spot for creative professionals. Considering his experience, skills, and location, I would estimate his hourly rate to be around $125 per hour. This is slightly below the national average for photographers in the United States, but it’s still a competitive rate considering his level of experience and the fact that he’s working in a niche field like commercial and portrait photography.