How do you share your photography prices with clients?

1 Create a pricing guide

A pricing guide is an essential document for outlining your services, packages, and rates in a professional manner. It helps you display your value, set expectations, and prevent any confusion or misunderstandings. You can create a pricing guide by using a template, software, or website builder. Your pricing guide should contain your brand name, logo, and contact information. Additionally, it should include a brief introduction about yourself and your photography style, a summary of your services and packages with what's included and what's not, a breakdown of your rates, fees, and discounts with an explanation of how they are calculated and when they are due. Furthermore, it should feature a portfolio of your best work that is relevant to your niche and target market, a testimonial section with positive feedback from previous clients, and finally a call to action inviting clients to book a consultation or contact you for more information.

2 Share your pricing guide strategically

Once you have your pricing guide ready, you need to decide when and how to share it with your clients. Depending on your goals, niche, and market, there are various strategies you can use. For example, you can share your pricing guide on your website, either publicly or behind a contact form, to attract qualified leads and filter out bargain hunters. Alternatively, you could share it via email after a client contacts you or expresses interest in your work to build trust and provide value. Additionally, sharing it in person during a consultation or meeting can help you present your work, answer questions, and overcome objections.

3 Be confident and transparent

When you share your photography prices with clients, you need to demonstrate confidence and transparency. Show your pride in your work and your understanding of your worth. Additionally, be honest and reliable. To help you be confident and transparent, use positive and assertive language, avoiding words like "just", "only", or "maybe". Explain the value and benefits of your services rather than just the features. Also, be sure to clarify any policies and terms such as deposits, cancellations, revisions, copyrights, etc. so that your clients understand and agree to them before signing a contract.

4 Negotiate and close the deal

Sometimes, clients may wish to negotiate your photography prices or ask for discounts. To be prepared and successful in these situations, it is important to know your minimum and maximum rates and stick to them. Avoid lowering your prices too much or too often, as this can negatively impact your reputation and income. Instead of discounts, offer incentives or alternatives such as a free print, an extra hour, or a referral bonus. You can also suggest a different package or service that fits their budget and needs. When negotiating, focus on the value and quality of your work rather than the price. Remind your clients why they chose you, what they will get from working with you, and how you can help them achieve their goals. Finally, ask for a commitment and a deposit to secure the booking. Doing so will demonstrate that you are serious and professional while also showing respect for both of your time.

5 Follow up and deliver

The last step in sharing your photography prices with clients is to follow up and deliver. Sending a thank you note and a confirmation email after the booking is a great way to show appreciation and professionalism. Additionally, staying in touch with clients before, during, and after the shoot will help build rapport and address any concerns. It's also important to deliver your work on time and as agreed, which will demonstrate reliability and quality. Lastly, asking for feedback and reviews will help you improve your skills and attract more clients.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?