It's a matter of choice/demand. If I'm attracted to a provider and her rate is x and I feel that is acceptable, I go for it. My feeling is, if you can't afford to hobby, or can't afford the provider you're attracted to, don't try to beat her down (to discount) as it really is counterproductive. For many of the providers, this is of course their main income and they surely consider themselves, the competitive market (other gals) and their own income needs. When you go to work each day, for each hour, would you want your employer to want to negotiate you down (per hour)?
Best bet is stick to your economically feasible range of providers. If you can't accept/afford that, there's always a freebie discount available from your left or right hand (or both) and that well worn 1974 copy of National Geographic Naked Pygmy women in your desk drawer right?
I just take my time to pick just a few providers I think are worth it (the price they set). So far, every one I've seen was worth it and I only see a few. I'm a low volume hobbyist. I like it that way.