To my wonderful, terrific, very amazing clients. I can't be in business without you.
I recently went through some photography business training. As the instructor provided advice about improving pricing and business structure, she indicated that you might not be cut out for a "Boutique" photography business, if telling a client that their product total comes to $4000-$7000 is uncomfortable.
Uncomfortable? I think I'd have a stroke. A deliriously happy stroke, but still, I start to hyperventilate at the thought. So, I'm not a "Boutique" photographer. Does that surprise me? Ummmm, no. I'm not doing life with Gucci and Versace. In fact, if Kate Spade and Michael Kors are your BFFs, I might not be the photographer for you.
However, it doesn't mean I don't appreciate quality. When I married, I was accustomed to pinching pennies. I always bought the cheapest thing, just because it was well, the cheapest thing. It was actually my husband who taught me about quality. He introduced the concept of paying for what you get. I remember the first time he took me shoe shopping and I got my not-bargain-store-shoes. We spent more on those shoes than my previous five pairs combined, but my feet were oh-so-grateful. Good shoes rocked my world. So many times, I've learned the hard lesson that just because something was 75% off (Oh yeah, I can sniff out clearance like a blood-hound) it doesn't necessarily mean you are saving money.
I may not be a boutique photographer, but dollar store strategies aren't my way, either. Providing high quality products and services is extremely important to me. I followed photography for long enough to know I didn't want to go into business offering low-end quality services, even if I am new in the business.
So, back to that business training. It was eye-opening. I realized that I hadn't been realistic about my costs in business. I had to re-evaluate my pricing structure. I also re-evaluated what I was actually offering my clients. There are some exciting changes that I think you'll love. (Like the fact that the most popular product with my clients, the Accordion Mini, is now included with the Life, Love or Legacy session!)
Some other exciting changes: I'm still a fan of sales and discounts and honoring loyalty. So, from now on, Return Clients will always receive 15% off their prints or products order. I'm also determined that all clients feel like their money is well spent. Satisfaction Guarantee! If we do your viewing session and you are unhappy with your images, I will offer you the choice of a re-shoot or return your session fee*. Living within a budget is also a quality I admire. If you know you want to invest in a session, I will gladly work out a payment plan.
Changes are in play, exciting and growing changes. I'm committed to providing high quality services and products to help you document the most valuable treasures in your life. Your family. I don't want to discriminate, though. If you long for a Boutique experience and want to spend $4000-$7000 on your portrait session products I can totally customize my services just for you. I'm flexible like that.
Many Blessings,
Heather Sullivan
Have some great ideas about products or session ideas, you'd like to see offered? E-mail me or message me on Facebook. I'd love to hear from you.
*If you are unhappy with your session images and your session fee is returned, no products, digital or print will be exchanged.*
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