Everyone has a budget…. Building a Better Business

‎”Quality is remembered, long after price is forgotten.”

That was my internal exclamation after this email exchange.

2012 is still booking up for wedding dates, big and small. This conversation below was for a simple mid-week court house ceremony and some portraits. Small & cute, between 2 people that love each other. For me it’s a perfect way to spend a few hours on an afternoon and I love these opportunities and make myself accessible to couples inquiring about photography for them.

After a handful of emails and a spirited conversation about all things weddings and Massachusetts, we got down to the nitty-gritty. Never my favorite part really. I’m no salesperson – But I am a photographer and business owner. I know the amount of time I spend cultivating my craft and how much love I put into every shutter click and photoshoot. There’s genuine value in my passion and my business. Sometimes though, the booking doesn’t go my way.

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Inquiring Bride: We have gotten a few quotes back around X price range that include the shoot and all digital files on cd. I know every photographer is different and I hope I am not offending you by asking. You are my first choice so I wanted to know if there was any flexibility on this or if there was another way to look at how the package is set up. Thank you again. I really appreciate your time.

Steph: For an inclusive collection (the shoot + the files), the best I could offer would be X. I’d be happy to offer payment options to help get you exactly what you’re looking for.

Inquiring Bride: Thanks so much for getting back to me. We have decided to go with another photographer so we can have more flexibility with the files at a price we can afford. I appreciate your efforts to lower the cost it is just out of our budget. Thanks again for your time and for being so helpful.

Steph: I hope you are equally enthusiastic about them and their work. In the end what matters is that you have a wonderful day, beautiful photographs and a happy ever after. Sincerely, Steph

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My sincerity is true.

I hope they are truly happy with their photographs.

I hope they have no regrets.

I hope the (approximately $250) money saved wasn’t the difference between their first choice photographer and being disappointed. These are their wedding photographs. These are their gifts to each other, the start of their family photo albums, the start of a new life and legacy.

If you’ve taken the time to read all of this (it is a photo blog after all), Thank You!

You realize my passion and know that I will make every last effort to accommodate you, your budget and your dream wedding.