How can portrait photographers turn what is normally a stressful situation (i.e. family portraits) into a joyful experience?

How can you anticipate client needs to elevate the perception of your portrait photography service?

As we gear up for family portrait season, Kathryn Langsford joins me on the show again to share her insights into crafting an exceptional client experience. We are discussing the three essential pillars that elevate every session, ensuring that families not only receive stunning portraits but also enjoy a stress-free and memorable experience.

#1: Stock the Studio: First up, we explore the importance of having everything handled before the session even begins, such as stocking the studio with essentials like bobby pins and safety pins and providing snacks that won't stain clothes. These thoughtful touches leave nothing to chance and can significantly reduce client anxiety. For a comprehensive list of items we love to have on hand in the studio, check out our newly updated FREE: 5 Key Steps to Get Ready For Your Busy Season PDF here. 

#2: Promote the Luxury Vibe: Next, we discuss creating a luxury service vibe. Kathryn shares how she transforms her studio into a welcoming space, complete with pleasant aromas and personalized swag bags for kids. She goes the extra mile, even offering wardrobe pickups a week before the shoot to ensure families arrive prepared and looking their best. (No having to run home because Dad forgot his tie/belt/shoes!)

#3: Set the Creative Agenda: Last but not least, we examine the idea of setting a creative agenda. By anticipating what clients will be purchasing during the consultation, Kathryn ensures that each session runs smoothly, keeping the focus on capturing the images that are planned for the walls of her clients home or their custom-designed albums. 

If you're curious about enhancing client interactions, this episode is packed with practical tips you won't want to miss. Grab a notebook because this is definitely going to be a good one.

Let's Do It!

In this episode, you will learn the importance of:

• Anticipating client needs and preparing essentials in advance, such as wardrobe fixers and snacks, to reduce client stress
• Creating a luxurious experience and offering personalized touches to make clients feel valued
• Establishing a creative agenda and planning the session with the end product in mind
• Effective communication with clients
• Reducing overwhelm by limiting options and providing clear guidance

Here’s a glance at this episode:

• [2:32] - Hear how Kathryn prepares her studio with essentials to ease clients' stress about their appearance.
• [5:12] - ATJ emphasizes the importance of having common tools ready to reduce client stress.
• [6:06] - Kathryn minimizes stress by managing parking, providing snacks, and creating a relaxed atmosphere.
• [9:47] - Learn how thoughtful snack choices help maintain a positive environment for both kids and parents.
• [12:08] - Kathryn touches upon her second pillar: aiming for a luxurious studio experience.
• [15:35] - Wardrobe pickup services alleviate client stress by ensuring outfits are ready and steamed.
• [17:43] - Most clients appreciate wardrobe pickup, which addresses common issues and saves time.
• [20:11] - Kathryn highlights the third key element: setting a creative agenda for each session.
• [22:45] - ATJ warns against overcomplicating sessions with too many distractions and options.
• [26:22] - Kathryn explains that most clients quickly understand the importance of focusing on what they'll actually use.
• [28:33] - Kathryn highlights how a creative agenda prevents wasted time and ensures client satisfaction.
• [30:52] - It's important to plan ahead of time with clients to avoid frustration during ordering.
• [33:32] - ATJ stresses the value of addressing client pain points and setting a clear creative agenda beforehand.

Click here to listen! [LINK TO THIS EPISODE]

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Do The ReWork

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Allison Tyler Jones

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Kathryn Langsford

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