Quoting prices over the phone vs meeting in person?

7 years 10 months ago - 7 years 10 months ago #480083 by Flash Steven
I get a lot of tire kickers calling up for price and I never hear from them again.  I'm sure some of these are competitors.   However I was thinking about implementing a new routine that would not disclose price over the phone and request a meeting.  It would be then at the meeting, after collecting all the facts that I disclose price.  

There for, I have a more qualified lead.  I have had the chance to sell myself and what I believe a greater chance of getting the deal.  After all, those that agree to meet up will be a higher chance of legit gig.  What do you think of this?  

Canon 7D w/grip, Canon 40D, Canon 70-200mm f2.8 IS L Canon MPE 65mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 70-300mm f2.8; Sigma 150mm f2.8 macro; Sigma 8-16mm f4.5-5.6
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7 years 10 months ago #480108 by Kenya See
But then you could be wasting a lot more time.  Considering how much time you would need to dedicate to each meeting.  Now if you are closing 80% of them, that's another story.  


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7 years 10 months ago #480215 by icepics
Maybe think about what information you make available on your website - your portfolio, photos for prospective clients to view, your packages and general price range, etc. Even if you don't have specifics on prices if they had an idea if you were in their price range that might eliminate people that just want cheap.

Then you could refer people to that and ask them to call you once they've taken a look and want to schedule or book a session.

Seems like photographers often do better meeting in person to show prints because once people see them, they may decide they want prints. Pricing seems to vary depending on where you live, but people probably have that in mind right up front and want to get an idea if they can afford you. If they realize you're in their price range then you might want to meet and show them photos in person.

Sharon
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7 years 10 months ago #480285 by Lindsey
Have prices posted on site, then meet up with those that are serious and have a gig.  Otherwise to much wasted time.  


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7 years 10 months ago #480318 by Sarah Ramirez

Lindsey wrote: Have prices posted on site, then meet up with those that are serious and have a gig.  Otherwise to much wasted time.  


:agree:


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7 years 10 months ago #480402 by Roblane
I'm with you all on this one.   My time is very busy, post the prices, and those that are serious will get my site down time.  


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7 years 10 months ago #480413 by Gus
Back in the day I'd agree with the face-to-face thing, but nowadays email/phone/skype/etc. make it so much easier and less time-consuming. I get the frustration with the tire kickers, of course, but refusing to give out prices unless in person seems like a lot more work for you!


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7 years 10 months ago #480491 by Tim Kelley
The problem and catch with meeting everyone is that you'll be throwing so much time out the window.  Not everyone will be closed.  


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