This week alone we’ve booked three weddings for the 2011 season. Although it’s always nice to book a wedding but this isn’t the reason for this post. The reason for this post are the comments we’ve heard from those couples who came to our studio to inquire about our services. I’ll begin with the couple that first came here 2 weeks ago. This couple had a list of 7 photographers they wanted to see. They came back yesterday afternoon to book my services. When asked why they chose my services, here’s what they had to say: “Your work appealed to us the most.” You’re the friendliest and most easy going and you never pressured us into a sale. We’ve seen a couple photographers where we felt their success was getting to their heads; one in particular was very arrogant. They had nice work but we didn’t want a photographer with an attitude. Photography is very important to us, we want it to be a good experience.”
The second couple we booked was last evening. They chose our services for the following reason: “Awesome work competitive prices and the fact you’re fluent in both English and French. We have family coming from all over Ontario and Quebec.”
The third wonderful couple who first came here Tuesday evening, sent me an email this morning. Here’s what they had to say: “Hey there guys. Congratulations!! You made the biggest impression out of any one we have met with. Your attention to detail surpasses anything we have seen. The clarity of your photos and colours is phenomenal. We would love for you to take our wedding photos.” This couple also visited 4 photographers if I recall correctly. One comment they made when they were here on Tuesday was regarding an appointment they weren’t impressed with because the photographer made his presentation at a Tim Horton’s!
Suggesting to potential clients to meet at a noisy coffee shop to present a portfolio and packages is not what I would call professional to say the least. However, being arrogant and arguing with potential clients is beyond comprehension. No matter how good, talented, experienced or successful a photographer might be, the bride and groom are “the” stars and should be treated as such. The photo-shoots should be a fun experience and having good chemistry with the photographer to begin with is a must! The couple should feel like they’re on cloud nine on the day of their wedding and the photographer plays a major role in assuring they feel good in front of his /her lens. Arrogance has no business in this profession; we’re in the business of making people feel good and feeling beautiful.