5 Tips to Better Connect with Your Clients
Posted by WPPAweb on Jun. 29, 2024 / Marketing / Subscribe 0
5 Tips to Better Connect with Your Clients
by Crystal T., Portrait Photographer
I have never been tech savvy, so when it comes to photography, my primary focus is on improving that aspect. What I am inherently good at, though, is connecting with clients. As a portrait photographer, I feel connection is absolutely crucial to capturing a person’s true essence. This is why, for those of you who might not be connection savvy, I want to share how I accomplish this.
Say Your Client's Name
First and foremost, upon initial communication, say your client’s name. Say it often. There is no sweeter sound to their ears. At a minimum, start and end every conversation by saying their name. “Greetings Jamie” and “Chat with you later Jamie” means more to your client than you know. They are not just a number or a business transaction. They are a human with feelings and a name.
Make it All About Them
Second, ask them what they want from the photoshoot. How many people will there be, what are their ages, are they celebrating something special, is there a specific aesthetic they are seeking? Even better is if you can meet them in person/buy them a coffee and chat about it. Make the conversation comfortable, relaxed, and ALL ABOUT THEM. It’s important to listen and (if you’re like me) take notes. You can refer back to them anytime.
Follow-Up to Prepare
Third, schedule the session and follow up 2-3 days prior to see how they are doing, if they have any questions, and what they plan to wear? This might help to calm nerves on their part and even yours. Plus, you will be fully prepared and can get right to shooting soon after they arrive.
Set A Positive Tone
Fourth, as soon as your client arrives, say their name again. If they have anyone with them, introduce yourself and learn their names, too. My mom (because name forgetting is hereditary?) taught me to, upon introduction, say someone’s name in my head three times to remember. It works!
Put It All Into Action
Finally, recap what you discussed about their desired portraits to see if anything has changed. Have FUN, compliment them (there is beauty in everything if you are seeking it), ask them questions about themselves, use personally tailored prompts to get genuine reactions (i.e. “kiss each other like you did when she came home from that deployment” or “I know you love playing basketball. Look at me like you just defeated the best team in the league!”).
I am tech handicapped and slowly improving everyday. To all you tech geeks out there, please know that I admire you and have relied heavily on your guidance to succeed. Hopefully, if you’re seeking advice on connecting with clients, this blog will help.
When technology and connection combine, your portraits will speak to your clients. They will not just look great, they will “feel” great.
0 Comments