Photographers, Do You Know The Top 3 Reasons WHY You Are Not Closing On Projects? -

Photographers, Do You Know The Top 3 Reasons WHY You Are Not Closing On Projects?

May 8, 2015
Posted by: David Williams
category:
- Photography Tips
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Why I know the top 3 reasons that I do not get all the projects that I quote on. As a photographer, do you know the top 3 reasons that you are not getting certain projects? You should know!
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1) Price – This is the #1 reason – hands down. What’s interesting is that I’m NOT pricey.
Although I am often told that I am mid-price point, I am also sometimes notified that a lower price is the reason another photographer was chosen instead of me. That’s perfectly fine with me because I know beyond a doubt that my rates are competitive with the market based on my experience and quality. For those that have the budget, want an experienced photographer and appreciate quality, the rates I quote are not an issue. Pricing only becomes an issue with those on a tight budget that’s more suited for a photographer that’s trying to build a business and undercuts the market to get the business or a photographer that is not full time and does photography on the side. Although I may negotiate on certain projects, I’m not willing to cut my prices by 35% to get most projects. Why? Because another will likely come along that is a great fit for both me and the client that’s in both of our range making it a win-win for both parties. Don’t undersell yourself. That’s a key problem with new photographers.
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2) Decided to do it themselves or have a friend do it or someone has a connection with another photographer.
I probably don’t hear this as much as family and wedding photographers may hear it; however, I still get this as one of the top reasons someone doesn’t come to me. The most recent one was because the CEO knew another photographer and that’s why I didn’t get the corporate event gig. In another case, one company got 7 or 8 quotes from photographers which I was part of that mix only to find out that one of the staff had a relationship with another photographer. For those that choose to have their spouse take their headshot vs. using me, that one is a little harder to swallow than losing a project because someone internally has a relationship with a professional photographer. I know that I get repeat business from the same clients and understand losing projects because the CEO or other key decision maker knows a photographer.
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3) Portfolio – It’s not what they are looking for.
My portfolio appeals to some people and not others. I get that. I don’t do the work that Glyn Dewis and Joel Grimes do. I don’t do crazy creative flips in the air with multiple gels to create surreal images. However, some of my HDR work does look kind of surreal. Anyway, a portfolio is both in the eye of the beholder and based on a specific need the client or agency may have. There are things that I plan to add to my portfolio, but I know that my portfolio will never appeal to every viewer.

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David Williams

Owner at RTP Photo and Video, Inc.

Short Bio About The Author: I'm David Williams a professional commercial photographer focusing on corporate and business clients with some personal branding, lifestyle photography in the mix. My love for photography began in late 1981 while still in High School. I started making money with his camera in 1982. Brenda, my wife, and I started working together in photography in 1988 shortly after we met. Brenda and I married in 1989 and have two adult daughters. Please be sure to get a quote for services if needed. Call or Text: 919.723.8453. Please reach out to connect with me on LinkedIn.