Regardless of the industry one works in, building rapport with your clients is one of the most important considerations. Not only do you increase the effectiveness of your output, but you also increase the prospects of repeat work from said clients. In turn, you’re also positioning yourself well to generate work from new clients, as word of mouth is one of the most effective forms of marketing for any business. How then can one build rapport with their clients? We discuss a few of the considerations that photographers should be mindful of.

Pay Attention

While the opportunity won’t always be available, any instances you do have to meet your client informally for a quick chat will do wonders to let them know that you’re accessible. This opportunity is also valuable to ask questions and understand the specific requirements of each client. After all, because every project is different, you should be approaching it with a mindset that it needs to be unique.

It doesn’t hurt to ask probing questions which delve a little deeper than the basics (e.g. budget, style, etc.), however these shouldn’t be intrusive. Most importantly though, listen attentively to what your client has to say, as this should form the framework of your session. During the session itself, prepare to address and respond to any concerns that are raised. Fail to do so, or trivialise them, and your client has an abundance of other photographers to choose from. 

Prepare Meticulously

There’s no harm in letting your true personality shine through but it’s important to maintain a sense of professionalism when dealing with a client. One needs to build the trust of their customer, and this is easily facilitated through a meticulous level of preparation that instils confidence in the client that you are fit for the task.

Make sure that your studio or set is prepared in advance of the client’s arrival. Not only does this make you look more organised but you can concentrate your efforts on the subject – particularly, making them feel at ease. Engage with them and mirror (repeat) their previous requests, which shows that you understand and appreciate what they are wanting from the photoshoot. Have a general idea about what directives and vision you have for the session, therefore you can discuss it with the client beforehand rather than making it up on the go – of course, a bit of ad lib freedom doesn’t hurt.

Operate with Flexibility

It’s not always going to be plausible but if you can introduce some flexibility into your operations your clients will appreciate personal touches. Identify and empathize with what their particular needs are, and tailor your offering accordingly. Work together for an optimal outcome, which might be such things as conducting the photoshoot in a variety of locations, or where it suits them. You don’t need to do this every time, but early on in the relationship will show you’re prepared to work hard to win your clients. Alternatively, involve them in the editing process. Even if their involvement isn’t in person, gauge their express desires to make them feel the process is collaborative, as it should be.