Questions you ask potential clients

[Gina9942]

I was wondering what questions you ask potential clients when they call, as to what they are looking for in a session? Are there specific questions I should be asking? I am seeing a lot of people say they do a phone consult, and I am just wondering what that entails. I know to ask, who's going to be in it, kids, locations, ages, etc...anything else?

TIA

[Niresangwa]

I almost exclusively use email, as it allows me a black and white paper trail. Usually all I need to know is what they want and where they want it done, when they can do it, and whether they know I don't do standard stuff and how much I cost. The only clients I meet with first are weddings.

[inkdoesntrun]

I agree with Niresangwa, always use email. I tend to ask what they want and how long they want to book. If they have some specific ideas ask them to email you with examples if possible.

[ML Photography]

I totally agree. Plus, if they ever change their mind once you deliver your product, you can still demonstrate what they asked you for.

[Gina9942]

The woman I am calling back today, got my number from a acquaintance, who happens to recommend me like crazy!! So I don't have email with her. I am going to call her back, I know the basics, I was just curious if I was missing out on something that I should be doing.

[Jim Poor]

1. What's your goal for the session? (large wall hanging, Christmas gifts for the family, etc?
2. Do you have any questions for me?


I find that with those two, I can steer the conversation to get anything else I need.

Originally Posted by Gina9942

The woman I am calling back today, got my number from a acquaintance, who happens to recommend me like crazy!! So I don't have email with her. I am going to call her back, I know the basics, I was just curious if I was missing out on something that I should be doing.

[scootermcq]

Originally Posted by Gina9942

I was wondering what questions you ask potential clients

TIA

Will that be cash or chargex?

[Licious]

I am another one who uses email primarily. I think its important to have the documentation, although I often discuss things with clients on the phone and follow up with an email outlining what we discussed.

As for what I ask my clients, I ALWAYS start with basic facts including how many people will be involved if its a family portrait or group shot. From there we talk about the feel or mood they are looking for. If they aren't really sure what they want, I will sometimes ask them to send me photos that they like so I can get a feel for what they want. I also ask about what they want to do with the photos (blow up and hang on the wall, put in a scrapbook etc) because that can influence my approach sometimes.

[SuperDan]

ditto to all above.. and scootermcq probably has one of the best!

but.. some of the actual things I do is try to learn more about them.... for example, yes you know to ask whos gonna be in it, but location or studio...
the idea of where the photos going or what style they want is valid too...
if they are going to be putting a 16x24 over grandmas fireplace they are not going to want a pic of them jumping in the air or anything "off the wall"

i also ask their turn around time that they are looking for... maybe they have gifts they need, or if its a senior shoot, a deadline for yearbook submission.. or holiday cards.

during the phone conversation though, i would get their email address and direct them to your website too and have them start looking for ideas on what they want.


each client is a little different though

[Gina9942]

Thank you!! These are all great things to ask!!! I spoke to the mom and we had a nice chat and now I know more of what she is looking for and she knows more about me, as a photographer