Consultation Call Do’s and Don’ts for Wedding Photographers
Are you a wedding photographer struggling with consultation calls? In this blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about consultation call do’s and don’ts for wedding photographers. Booking weddings often hinges on this critical step, so mastering it can make all the difference in a saturated photography market.
The Importance of Speed
One of the biggest tips I have for wedding photographers is to prioritize speed when responding to inquiries. Your consultation call might be your client’s first interaction with you, so it’s important to make a positive impression quickly. In the luxury wedding industry, there’s a misconception that responding too fast might make you seem desperate. However, from my experience, whether you’re a luxury photographer booking destination weddings or a photographer working locally, quick responses can set you apart.
Clients love it when you make them feel like they are your top priority. Speed can create a memorable first impression, which is crucial in establishing trust. “I’ve booked many weddings because I called back right away,” is something I hear often from my clients, and it’s a strategy I swear by.
Building a Personal Connection
Another essential aspect of consultation calls is connection. Take at least 10-15 minutes at the beginning of the call to build a rapport with your clients. Try to talk about anything other than the wedding at first. Whether it’s where they grew up or their hobbies, these little conversations allow you to connect on a human level. Think of it like a first date—jumping straight into the wedding logistics is like jumping straight into marriage talk!
“The more personal the conversation, the better the call goes.” This connection helps when discussing more specific wedding details later. The more comfortable your client feels, the more likely they are to book you.
Visualizing Yourself at Their Wedding
Help your clients picture you at their wedding. If you’ve shot at their venue or know the area well, mention specific locations and ideas for photography. This technique helps clients see you as a part of their special day and makes them more likely to choose you. Even small details like mentioning where you’d take the best shots can make a big difference. “Painting a picture of yourself at their wedding really helps seal the deal.”
Don’t Make It About You
A big don’t? Don’t spend too much time talking about yourself or your past weddings. Instead, focus on what your client wants. The client should be talking 70% of the time, and you should be actively listening. You can guide the call while ensuring they feel heard and valued.
Finally, avoid asking who else they are considering. It can create unnecessary competition in your head and hurt the connection you’re trying to build. Focus on connecting, and the rest will follow.
Watch the YouTube video all about this here:
[Link to the YouTube video]
