03/28/2026
It’s easy for us photogs to get sucked into the latest trend and miss out on an opportunity to create something that is truly meaningful for our clients. You have the power to facilitate an experience that will help even the most camera shy clients show up comfortably as their authentic selves. Here’s how—
📸Gather info: Every one of my potential clients receives a photography guide before we meet. This way expectations are clear from the start and we can really get to know each other during our consult. This isn’t just a “select your package” type of guide—it’s also home to my style questionnaire. It has a fun “online quiz” vibe that helps clients find the words to communicate how they want their session to feel and photos to look.
📸Talk it through: Never underestimate the power of a consultation. After walking through their completed guide together and answering any initial questions, I like to get to know my clients better so I can understand relationship dynamics and individual spirits. No question is trivial. Even something as simple as knowing your client’s favorite hobby can help you better understand their personality so you can tell their story in a way that makes them feel understood.
📸Time to cook: A successful session requires the formulation of one very unique recipe. Use the information you’ve gathered as if they were ingredients and get to cookin’. Maybe your clients are shy and would be more comfortable shooting at a low traffic location. Maybe there are accessibility considerations to account for. Maybe their family shares a love for puzzling, or another hobby that can be candidly photographed. Maybe they love a moody vibe and prefer blue hour photos. Crafting the perfect recipe is critical and you will rarely use the same recipe twice.
📸Don’t overbook: too many clients = imperfect recipes and unhappy clients. It’s better to charge a little more and provide outstanding customer service than to overwork yourself and end up disappointed in your portfolio and feeling like you’ve let your clients down.
If you’ve found this helpful pop over to my site via the link in my bio and submit an inquiry to receive your photography guide!