How would you navigate a situation where a client requests extensive discounts on your photography packages?

Just as my clients time is valuable, so is my energy and expertise. My prices are set to a price that covers my experience, my equipment, and operations within my ethos. I encourage my clients to book with me when they are most prepared to pay the cost of my services.

1) Remember clients always prefer for discounts & best work. The solution is simple give them the breakdown & try to make them understand where the cost is going which helps them understand why the budget is charged this much. 2) The best you can do is swap the extra services with creative inputs. If they still want a discount give them fewer services & save up on yourself. Note:- There are quality clients who understand the cost you asked is justified but there are clients who are always looking for a discount more than quality. So don't lower your standards even if you do you will be expected to do everything for a discounted rate & exploited majorly.

Communication always is on the top. Each side needs to know about conditions. Apart from that I would not work for someone, who does not appreciate, what this work is about.

"No me cierro a negociar tarifas, especialmente en mi país, donde la gente es muy propensa a pedir rebajas en los presupuestos. Siempre y cuando la cifra final no perjudique al equipo humano que trabaja conmigo ni a mí mismo, todo bien."

Communication needs time. I talk to my clients before I start any project. Not only about the technical stuff, but I ask about the lives of my clients. What they like, what their hobbies are, which music they prefer. I try to make connections between such interests and my work. My clients will feel authentic when they watch their pictures later. This only works, if I know how my clients are "ticking"

Transparency always is the key to any business. I let the client know, what my conditions are and if there are any doubts I invite them to have a view behind the curtains. If they keep discussing about rebates, I consider to skip that job soon enough.

Clients will care more about what you can do for them and how you will create value and an enjoyable, stress-free experience than they will about how many hours you spend editing and the cost breakdown of all your expenses. Especially in the high end or luxury portrait genres. Spend less time talking about yourself and more time on what’s in it for them!

While understanding and flexibility are important, maintaining firmness on pricing reflects your professionalism and confidence in the value you provide. Clearly articulate your pricing policy and why discounts beyond a certain threshold may not be feasible.

Consider the long-term impact on your business. Discounting excessively can devalue your services and set precedents for future clients. Assess whether accommodating the discount aligns with your business goals and brand positioning.

The line “In fairness to all my clients that have paid full price, I’m unable to discount my rates” can often shut down any conversations about discounts.

I only work with people that I like. Easy to say if you are not bound to this job to feed your family. But working like this is a great advantage, as mutual sympathy is an enormous motivation for both sides.