Why the wrong clients coming to you isn’t always a bad thing
We love getting enquiries, that’s no secret and we all do a little happy dance whenever they come in (is this just me?), but sometimes they’re not something we offer or feel we can take on at that time. It’s really hard to say no to jobs when enquiries are slow and money is limited, and I think it’s a good thing to take on jobs that don’t necessarily align with your business. At the end of this blog, you’ll find a template guide on how to say no to jobs.
For now, here’s a list of the benefits, risks and how we can avoid or spin it to work for us.
It’s okay to take a job that doesn’t necessarily reflect the true nature of our work when:
a) we’re starting out - we get to try on different hats and see what works best for us
b) money is a struggle - just limit how much you share the content from these sessions, as the more you share, the more people will think you offer it
It’s a good thing to say no to jobs that don’t align with your business and morals because:
a) we have more time to focus on work and clients that do align with us
b) sets boundaries and a clear vision for your business
c) it’s good practice saying no - a good skill to have in life
Making the decision to hire someone to capture your memories is a big one and finding the right photographer is super important.
I personally love to vibe with my clients and I wouldn’t want to take a job if the client wasn’t fully 100% on board with my energy or style. I remember at the start of my photography journey, I would take on every single enquiry (that didn’t ghost me!) because I thought that’s how it worked, and because I needed the income. I now know that it’s much more valuable to me and my business to work with clients that are totally on my page and I’m totally on theirs.
Comfort is key and your clients will feel so much more relaxed knowing you have the same vision or will take the session in the direction that works for the both of you. The more we share images from sessions that we loved doing and vibed with our clients, the more this will attract. The more we work with clients that vibe with us, the more they’re going to recommend you and the more work will come in.
It’s okay to say no to jobs. It’s also okay to try lots of different things when we’re starting out so we know what doesn’t work for us.
“You’re not for everyone, and everyone isn’t for you”
- Pierre Jeanty
Comfort is key, and you’ll both feel more relaxed knowing you’re on the same page.
Template for turning down work
“Hey …….
It’s great to hear from you, thank you so much for your enquiry.
As much as I would love to photograph………, that’s not something I currently offer however I am more than happy to recommend some local photographers who may be able to help you. If you’d like a list, let me know and I’ll be able to get back to you ASAP.
I really want to thank you for your enquiry and I wish you all the best.
(Insert closing signature)
I hope this guide helps and encourages you to flex your ‘no’ muscle.
Your business matters, so take care of it.
All my love and kindness,
