The Other Side

Each time I step in front of the camera, I learn a considerable amount about my client’s side of the experience.

How do I choose a photographer?

The first part of the experience makes me very introspective about how I select which photographer to hire. Where do I find them? How long have I followed them or been aware of their brand? What emphasis do I place on their Instagram feed or website portfolio? Are pricing and deliverables a factor in my hiring decision? As a consumer, what do I want?

I carefully consider the process of selection and apply what I experience to refine my own business.

What was the booking process like?

Once the selection has been made, I pay careful attention to the booking process. Is communication with the photographer easy and prompt? Do I feel valued? Did they offer me resources to answer my questions? Was the booking process with date selection, payment, and contracts simple and quick?

I like to be the client on this side of the experience to understand where I can eliminate unnecessary steps and how to make the process streamlined. I’m trying to build excitement and not burden someone with a long to-do list.

Preparation

Without a doubt, preparing for a session is the hardest part! I need to color my hair, get my nails done, prepare the horses and organize the logistics. I need to select a location, plan and purchase my outfits, book hair and makeup… the list is overwhelming.

This is the most critical piece for me: I want to experience every insecurity, doubt, and question that my clients experience. I want to be able to hold their hand and make them feel completely prepared as they get ready for their shoot with me.

The Shoot

How did I feel during the shoot? Was the photographer on time? How was the photographer’s communication as they directed me? Did I agree with the posing and feel confident? Did I accomplish what I set out to do? Did I feel beautiful, or was I left wondering how I looked? Did I have FUN?!

Aftermath

How is communication with the photographer after the shoot? Am I well versed on what to expect as the next steps? Do they overdeliver, or am I underwhelmed on the backside of the shoot?

To me, being taken care of after the shoot is just as important as before the shoot. I’m filled with excitement and anticipation waiting for images, but I’m also insecure: are the photos ok? Am I going to be happy? Was this a good investment or a waste?

I can’t emphasize enough that as you prepare your own clients for a shoot, there is no substitute that is as valuable as going through the process, start to finish, yourself.

Need more help preparing your clients perfectly and improving your client experience? Learn to create a unique and rave-worthy client experience that pampers your customers while preparing them for a perfect session with my Welcome Magazine course!