Simon Iannelli: AI-Powered Quotes for Photo Shoots
Simon Iannelli is an advertising and corporate photographer in Bern, Switzerland. He uses Claude to create complex shooting quotes in minutes instead of hours – and writes them directly to GrandTotal via the MCP server.
The Challenge
Simon's quotes are complex: multiple locations mean different travel distances, plus mixed calculations combining his own effort with supplier costs for partners – set design, styling, hair/make-up, location scouting. Every quote is unique – yet needs to look professional and consistent.
The Workflow
1. Load Reference Quotes
Three previous quotes loaded as PDFs into Claude. Claude recognizes the structure with blocks, line items and subtotals.
2. Enter the Briefing
Locations, desired shots, team size, timeframe and special requirements.
3. Automatic Calculation
Claude calculates travel distances, creates the mixed calculation, estimates time per location and summarizes everything in a structured format.
4. Review and Approve
All items ready for review. Adjustments take seconds – one note is enough, Claude corrects prices or adds items.
The Result
After approval, Claude writes the quote directly into GrandTotal – blocks, line items, quantities, prices, subtotals. Everything in the familiar document structure, ready to send.
From Hours to Minutes
What used to take half a day is done in under 30 minutes – including research, calculation and the finished document.
At a Glance
Photographer
Simon Iannelli, Bern
Field
Advertising, Corporate, Editorial
Tools
Claude + GrandTotal
Time Saved
Half a day → under 30 minutes