5 important questions to ask before providing a quote to a client
Are you a product photographer who just got an exciting client lead but unsure what to quote them? Before diving into the numbers and sending out that quote, it's crucial to ask the right questions. Asking these client lead questions ahead of time before sending any numbers will help you figure out what the client needs and how much you should quote.
It’s all about communication. Communication lays the foundation for a successful collaboration by helping you understand your client's vision, goals, and expectations. From the style and mood of the photos to specific branding requirements, clear communication ensures you're on the same page from day one.
It can take some time to figure out all the right questions to ask and feel confident in talking with new clients. We need to build trust and set clear expectations from the start. That all begins with asking the right questions!
Here are five important questions to ask before sending that product photography quote:
What type of content are you looking to create? For product based businesses, this could be e-commerce images on a white background or highly stylized photos with lots of props. Or they could need both! This will help you figure out what to charge and even if you need to bring on a food or product stylist or assistant.
What's the scope of the project? Get clarity on the project's scale, including the number of products, desired deliverables, and any special requirements. For example, knowing things like if they need updated banner images for their website—those are usually super wide and have specific dimensions.
What's the deadline? I ALWAYS ask if they have a soft or hard deadline for the images. Knowing the client's timeline allows you to schedule the shoot, allocate resources efficiently, and ensure timely delivery of the final product.
Where will the photos be used? Understanding the intended use of the photos (e.g., e-commerce websites, social media, print ads) helps you determine things like licensing rights, image resolution needs, file formats, etc. Brands can range from what they need so it’s always good to ask. If they are a new small business, they might just need images for their website and social media. While a larger company could be looking for billboard or POS content.
What's the budget? It is OK to ask this question! But make sure you have a clear idea of what your cost of doing business is and don’t feel like you have to stick in their budget bubble. There’s nothing wrong with sending multiple quotes at different price points and deliverables. Knowing the client's budget range enables you to create customization options that align with their financial expectations.
It’s always helpful to jump on a call and discuss these questions as well. You can have your client fill out the questionnaire or you can fill it out for them while on the call. I recommend keeping this info handy so you can easily refer back to it.
Strong client communication builds trust and fosters long-term relationships. When clients feel heard, valued, and understood, they're more likely to trust your expertise, recommend you to others, and return for future projects.
By asking these questions upfront, you not only demonstrate your professionalism and attention to detail but also set the stage for a successful collaboration that meets the client's needs and exceeds their expectations. Happy shooting!
P.S. - if you need more in-depth information, find my client questionnaire template below!
