Challenges of portrait photography

2 years 5 months ago #725971 by MoniBinis
Hey all - this is slightly venting / slightly looking for advice. I started my photo side biz a few months ago, and things are growing steadily. I'm delivering more consistent photos (and learning a ton from mistakes!)
  1. What do you do with 'chatty' clients? I have one who is a free client - I told her I'd do a free maternity session since I've never done one before. We've spent hours going back and forth picking out outfits, talking about locations, adding her husband and kid to the session. Like.. its just a lot. And she rescheduled twice and she wanted me to drive 2 hours to an admittedly beautiful location, but I'm just not doing that. By the time all is said and done, I will have invested literally weeks into this one shoot.
  2. Rescheduling - I feel like I'm constantly rescheduling appointments. Sometimes it's fine because I have a day job and kids, so I would rather stay home. It seems like half of my appointments get rescheduled. Is this super common?
  3. Competition - another small photographer in my area had a friend reach out to me to ask my rates, then she used that undercut me on her Facebook page - literally same prices but they're all $10 cheaper  My rates are low because I'm just starting out, but like.. come on. Is this common? I'm flattered, obviously, but also annoyed because I've tried to reach out and be friendly with her, as well as support her by commenting on different photos where I felt she did a great job.
  4. Nerves - Will I ever stop getting butterflies before a shoot? Will I ever stop procrastinating when it comes to editing because I'm afraid I've made some huge mistake? Am I ever going to feel confident in my skills or I'd this my general anxiety/imposter syndrome sneaking in?
  5. Regardless of these annoyances, I love that I can use my hobby as a way to bankroll my gear.... even though I have yet to bankroll any gear. Hah. Meeting people and getting them to giggle has been super fun. However, I've been seriously lacking on my 'just for me' photography and I know it'll change when I get the cash to upgrade my gear.


,
2 years 5 months ago #726084 by photoguy214
Hi:

Disclaimer: I don't consider myself a PRO. To me, a PRO is someone who earns a primary income through photography.

That said, I have earned "side income" through photography since 1990.

I'll try to address your issues as you've numbered them, as I've endured similar situations.

(1) Chatty clients happen, but it's not your job to decide which outfits the client wants to wear. And you shouldn't spend your valuable time entertaining that whimsy. A 2 hour drive? Whatever hourly rate you are charging, I'd add a charge for your driving time. Typically I advertise a radius, with no extra charge. If the client's shoot extends beyond that radius/travel time, they should incur the expense of your time to make it to the shoot and back and for the wear and tear on your vehicle. 

(2) If a client reschedules on me more than twice, I politely say that I'm probably not the best photographer for their needs. You run this risk of losing out on other clients by dealing in endless rescheduling. I can understand if it's an outdoor shoot, for example, and suddenly the weather calls for a downpour, or if the client gets sick---but there has to be limits.

(3) DO NOT under any circumstances discuss your rates with other nearby photographers you think are your friends. It's a dog-eat-dog world, and we're all competing for similar business. I'd stand firm on your rates but by no means have friendly chit chat about pricing with others who want YOUR clients.

(4) It takes a long time. I'm a natural introvert. Even spent time in therapy for it. Still got butterflies for a long time. After 30, 40, 50 clients it will subside!

Not sure how to answer 5.
Best of luck.


,

817.3K

241K

  • Facebook

    817,251 / Likes

  • Twitter

    241,000 / Followers

  • Google+

    1,620,816 / Followers

Latest Reviews

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

The Sigma fp L is a compact full-frame camera with a 61-megapixel sensor, 4K video capabilities, in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed construction. What’s not to like?!

Mar 19, 2024

The Canon 1DX Mark III is a big, burly professional camera packed with top-end features. Is it worth the investment in 2024? Find out in this detailed review!

Mar 04, 2024

In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.

Mar 01, 2024

Forum Top Posters

Latest Articles

Time management is a critical skill to master when you’re a photographer. But how do you get the most out of the limited time you have? Check out this guide to learn a few tricks!

Mar 27, 2024

The Leica SL2-S is an attractive, premium mirrorless camera with photo and video specs that are sure to impress. And with the legendary Leica name, you know this camera exudes quality!

Mar 26, 2024

Opening a photography business means undertaking various photography marketing strategies to promote your work. But you don’t want to do the same old thing - try these unique ideas!

Mar 22, 2024

The Canon EOS 80D might be a few years old, but it’s nevertheless a quality camera to invest in as a beginner or enthusiast looking for a mid-range DSLR with tons of lens options.

Mar 22, 2024

Wedding consultations are a critical part of a wedding photography gig. It’s when you learn about the couple and their wants, and present them with how you will meet those desires.

Mar 22, 2024

If you're looking for the best metal print of 2023, you'll find it from Artbeat Studios. After months of testing, Artbeat Studios beat out the competition!

Mar 21, 2024

Getting the best video shots on your camera or smartphone requires you to understand the fundamentals of composition and video editing. It helps to have the appropriate gear, too!

Mar 20, 2024

It’s easy to lose your inspiration behind the lens, especially as a beginner. These creative photography projects can help inspire you to try new techniques and improve your photos.

Mar 20, 2024