5 tips to build relationships with your clients

We’re back this week with another post for tips to build your photography business, starting with your clients! When I decided to take my business from a hobby to a professional business, I didn’t realize how much my connection with my clients supported capturing amazing photos. I knew I could take great photos and was so excited to start accepting paid clients. However, what I didn’t consider was that the people I photographed up until this point were my family and friends … people I ALREADY had great relationships with that were supported behind the lens. 

When it comes to working with your clients, it’s sooo important to build a relationship. Your relationship with your clients will be a stepping stone to not only make the session enjoyable, but to also capture those candid photos we all know and love to see. Here are 5 tips to help you build strong relationships within your business!

1. Make sure your communication is streamlined 

First and foremost, I loooove to get on a call with my clients BEFORE the session. Zoom is my preferred option because its a great way to connect face to face, but also allows flexibility within busy schedules to connect while you’re home. During this call, it’s important to ask questions, build connections and really get to know your subject. This way, you can get clarity on expectation, what they are looking for and ultimately get to know their personality prior to your session together. You set the tone, so remember to be comfortable and casual and they will follow suit. 

2. Send your questionnaire 

My questionnaires are such a great way for me to learn even more about my clients on a deeper level. I use them for allll my shoots, whether it be for weddings, engagements, branding or portraits. Here is where you can get detailed. Don’t be afraid to ask too many questions in the beginning – it’s better to be prepared and support your clients vision than not have a clear idea on the day of your shoot. This way, you can research poses if your not familiar or scout locations that fit their vibe.

3. Find the perfect location 

Now that you have a clear idea of expectation, it’s time to provide suggestions for your shoot location that meet your clients vision! Try and come with a few ideas that fit their overall vibe or feel for how they want their photos to turn out. Here is a good time to reference back to your call or questionnaire, where you may have learned some personal details about your client. Do they love to take their dog on beach walks? Well, then an ocean side location may be perfect for them!! Are they city people who love the lights of a busy landscape? A downtown nightshoot could be exactly what they are envisioning! When you come prepared with ideas, it shows that you were listening and are reliable – all attributes people look for in a photographer

4. Come prepared with prompts and poses 

I always have a little list ready of prompts or pose ideas that can be tweaked for anyone. Oftentimes, it takes a hot minute for some people or couples to get comfortable in front of the camera. When I run into this situation, I like to guide and support my clients into poses that are natural but also take the pressure off of them having to come up with things on their own. This is a great way to show your confidence and expertise as a photographer, and to lighten the mood from potentially nervous clients

5. Play some music and have FUN!

In the end, remember … don’t forget to have a good time!! Find out what type of music your clients like prior to your shoot. Are they country fans, do they prefer rap or classical? I always have my little portable speaker handy so I can dance along with my clients and lighten the mood. Be playful, silly and most importantly, yourself. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through – it’s what makes you special and what connects you with your clients

When you are first starting out in your business, it can be scary and exciting taking on your first clients. Don’t forget to have fun and remember, you are a talented, badass photographer – you’ve got this!!