Do you expect your wedding photographer to drive to your city for a consultation?

Question

I am a photographer in the San Diego area. A lot of my clients live in downtown San Diego, which is 30-40 minutes away from my office.

Do you think customers are less likely to meet with me since I am 30 minutes away?

Do you think I would get more business if *I* drove 30 minutes and met with the customer at their home, business or local coffee shop within their own city?

I don't want someone to pass me up because my office is not "local".

What do you think?

Answer 1

My photographer and I met half way at a near by Starbucks...i was so comfortable with my Photographer because of her vibe, that we just talked about the gas price situation and decided to met half way to convenience both parties...but this is consultation only...on the wedding day its $100 for 2 hours traveling.  I didnt mind because she lives an hour away from the wedding location.  

i wouldn't advertise the consultation on your website or where ever...when a potential client calls and want to meet...let them call the shots...other wise expect them to come to you at your office...because if i need a baker, florist, wedding dress...etc...i have to go to their location of business...i don't expect them to come to me...it would be nice...but its not normally done in general...unless the client pays for it.

But do what you think will help you get more clients...get alot of portfolio on a website, myspace, and other on-line places...and to get alot of clients...have competitive rates.

Answer 2

that would be sweet if the photographer came your house. when they call give them an ultimatum. either you got their or they can come to you

Answer 3

I definitely think it would up your chances.  You could claim that on your taxes, too.  You could also offer to email or mail a portfolio and discuss things with them over the phone.  Let them know that if they like your work, then you'll set up an appt for them (to come to you).  I'm planning a wedding myself and I wouldn't expect the person to come to me...it'd be nice, but I dont' expect it.

Answer 4

when i was looking for photographers, we always had to meet at their house or office.  I live in L.A. and the were all in the OC.  Only one met with us at a coffee joint.  I guess you should always tell then to meet at your office and if they can't go, offer something inbetween.  Your priority should be to get their business, whatever it takes!

Answer 5

I think if you drove you would get more business, my photographer lives an hour away (in another state even) and she drove to my house to go over her portfolio and contracts and stuff. I probably wouldnt have used her if I had to drive to her

Answer 6

It doesn't sound like a bad idea.  You should try it out and see how your clients respond.  I'm sure some would prefer to meet you at your office while others would prefer this service.  Either way I don't think it will hurt to try.

Answer 7

I drive no more than 30 minutes to meet couples.  We try to find a halfway point between the two of us to meet.  But my situation is a bit different than yours. I don't have portfolios or large sample albums to carry.  

The thing that r-e-a-l-l-y gripes me is the no-shows.  I've only had it happen 3 times in all the years I've done this but it doesn't set well with me. A  "kiss my you-know-what", is better than sitting & waiting.  :)

But you might want to consider traveling a little

Answer 8

I that if you advertise in that area than you should be willing to drive to meet with your couples. They are spending a lot of money on you so give them "wow" customer service, and then maybe you will be the one turning away clients!

Answer 9

I think if you advertised that you will drive to meet with your clients if it is less than ____ miles or something, you will definitely get more business.

I live in a decent metro area, and despite the fact that there might be cheaper prices elsewhere in neighboring towns, I don't know that I would drive there to meet with the photographer.

Answer 10

We are having a renewal of vows ceremony and the photographer and florist both came to our home in the evening. When people are working and trying to plan a major event, a supplier who will come to them is a real bonus.

Answer 11

you want the business? You go to them!

I've shot weddings up to an hour away, did i ask them to come to me? NOPE! If I want their business, I show them by driving.

Answer 12

I choose my guy because he made it easy for me. He met me halfway at a coffee bar on two seperate occasions then went to my mom and dad's so dad could see his work before we booked. I didn't think it was necessary but going over and above before I handed him a check sealed his fate with us and I went with a $6000.00 package (our lifestyle affords that before people get all pissy about it).

Just keep in mind the bride is often driving all over h***s half acre to plan a wedding to begin with, so 30 mins is well within reason. I don't think you would "loose" business per se, but I think you'd for sure "gain" business by being flexable. Remember references are everything in this business.

Answer 13

As you work in a compeditive field, I would certainly visit clients, where possible, to provide a high level of service.  Some clients might be more comfortable to meet you this way, some may prefer your office.  You just need to be flexible, this will improve your chances of success.