111. Q&A episode about pricing, self-care and marketing
Time to answer your questions. Let’s talk about pricing, marketing, and self-care.
Learn the 7 pieces of a sustainable business
Episode 53
How can I effectively market my business without spending a ton of money?
The first thing to consider is where your clients are currently coming from. If you find that most of your clients are coming from your website or Instagram, it might be wise to focus your marketing efforts there. Social media platforms are a great way to promote your business without breaking the bank. Additionally, networking plays a crucial role in marketing. Make sure people around you are aware of what you do and encourage them to spread the word. Don’t forget to reach out to past clients and ask them to recommend your services to their friends. However, I also recommend setting aside a specific percentage of your earnings for marketing purposes. While it’s great to use free marketing methods, investing in social media ads can often yield excellent results.
Do you have any practical tips for ensuring client satisfaction and receiving good reviews?
Client satisfaction is essential, and there are several ways you can ensure your clients are happy with your services. Firstly, clearly define what you can offer and avoid overpromising. It’s better to exceed their expectations rather than falling short. Focus on the little things, such as providing clear instructions, sending timely reminders, and being readily available for communication. Establish your boundaries and make sure your clients know what to expect in terms of response times, delivery dates, and overall working procedures. Remember, effective communication is key. Finally, when you know your clients are happy, don’t hesitate to ask for reviews. Positive feedback can help attract more clients, and feedback on areas that need improvement can help you grow.
How can I achieve a work-life balance?
Achieving a work-life balance is a common challenge for many photographers. To begin, ensure your pricing reflects the value of your work. Setting your prices too low may lead to overworking yourself, as you’ll feel compelled to take on more clients to compensate for the low rates. Take time to identify what you need to take care of yourself, whether it’s getting more sleep, engaging in regular exercise, spending time outdoors, or simply having quality time with family. Prioritize self-care and incorporate it into your schedule. Planning is crucial in finding balance, so make sure to create a schedule that allocates time for both work and personal activities. Remember, it may be difficult at first, but finding a balance is essential for your long-term success and well-being.
Advice on pricing my work as a newcomer?
Pricing can indeed be a daunting task for photographers who are new to the industry. It’s crucial to base your prices on practical factors rather than feelings. Consider the amount of work you can handle, your desired income, and your current and future expenses. If you lack experience, you might consider offering discounted rates or even working for free initially to build your portfolio. However, be transparent about your situation and clearly communicate that your lower prices are due to your current level of experience. As you gain more knowledge, form a clear vision of the kind of work and experience you want to offer. This will help you establish a more sustainable and representative pricing model. Remember, many photographers struggle with the business aspect, so investing in your marketing, branding, and strategy skills can make a significant difference in your success.
.Remember, there’s always room for growth and improvement, so don’t be afraid to take your business to the next level. Let’s connect and explore how I can assist you on your photography journey.
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Ingvild Kolnes is the host of the Sustainable Photography Podcast, an educator for photographers, and is ready to help you with your photography business.
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hi, i'm ingvild
This podcast is all about education and inspiration for photographers. A sustainable business is profitable and lasting. Instead of short-term wins you want to make sure you’re doing things that matter. Both to yourself, and to create the business you want. The goal of this podcast is that it will help you build and structure your business around your life, instead of the other way around.
