How to Prepare Your Clients for Their Photo Experience
How to Prepare Your Clients for Their Photo Experience
Communication
Facetime/Skype/Call/Zoom/grab coffee before they even sign a contract. Even if they are immediately sold & want to book you without hesitation, still do it. Why? Because the best thing you can do is just spend some time getting to know the people who have entrusted you with their memories. It's good to just hang out, ask questions, talk out details, tell them what they can expect, discuss contracts/deposits, give advice/make suggestions, & offer to help in any way that you can. Building a safe & comfortable space for your clients begins before you pick up a camera.
Intentionality
Let your clients know that you are here to help & serve them throughout the process & not just at the start. It's important not to go silent. Sometimes, that looks like just sending them a text and asking how they are doing. Sometimes, they need some encouragement or assurance. Let them know that you are on their team. Even though I have "set" business hours, I always tell my clients that they can call/text me anytime. If I can't answer then, I'll get back to them as soon as I can. My clients have never made me feel like I can't protect my time, but I also want them to know their needs are not an inconvenience to me.
Planning Ahead
I try to do whatever I can to deter stress away from my clients. Create timelines, send recommendations, help pick outfits, check the weather (so that even if we have to wing it, we know what to expect), plan for the best lighting, location scout, pack snacks (hangry clients are no bueno) & a just-in-case bag, work out stuff with vendors/guests if needed (for elopements & weddings), etc. I just want them to be able to enjoy their day & soak it all in. Sometimes, that might mean navigating not-so-ideal or unplanned situations & innovating on the fly. Sure, no day is in a literal sense - perfect. But the goal is for my clients to be content - no matter what happens.
XO, Dakota