Photography Side Hustle
Photography Side Hustle
How to Talk to Customers
Episode 198 - How to sell your work if you are an introvert.
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Hey, how’s it going? I’m Andy Jones, and this is episode 198 of the Photography Side Hustle podcast.
This week, I was chatting with Austin Morton, who is a new member of the Facebook group. He mentioned that I haven’t done an episode about how to talk to customers during a shoot.
I think the reason I haven’t covered this subject is because we are all different, and there isn’t only one way to talk to people.
Anyway, I decided to give it a go.
So, here's a breakdown of conversation topics and strategies for wedding and portrait photographers during sessions:
Core Goals of Conversation
Build Rapport & Trust
Make the client feel comfortable, safe, and valued.
Bring Out Genuine Emotion & Expression
Spark natural smiles, laughter, and connection.
Provide Clear & Encouraging Direction
Guide poses and flow without sounding robotic.
Avoid Awkwardness/Nerves
Take the focus off the camera.
Maintain Positive Energy & Flow
Keep the session moving smoothly and enjoyably.
Gather Useful Information (Subtly)
Learn about them to personalize the experience.
Essential Topics & Strategies for BOTH Wedding & Portrait Sessions
The Clients Themselves
You need to get to know them and find out what makes them tick.
The easiest way to do that is to ask …
Open-Ended Questions
"How did you two meet?"
"What do you love most about [Partner's Name/Child's Name]?"
"What are you most excited about today/for the wedding?"
"Tell me about your [pet/hobby/travel spot mentioned earlier]."
Shared Interests
"I heard you love hiking!
“What's been your favorite trail?"
"What's the best concert you've ever been to?"
"Any fun plans coming up after this?"
Compliments (Sincere & Specific)
"That laugh is incredible, let's hear it again!"
"The way you just looked at him/her is perfect, hold that!"
"That outfit/jewelry/hair looks stunning on you."
"You have amazing eyes, let's make sure we capture them."
Recalling Pre-Session Info
"You mentioned you love cooking together. What's your signature dish?"
"How's [their dog's name] doing?"
Positive Situational Commentary
Light & Environment
"Wow, this light is gorgeous right here!"
"Let's catch this beautiful golden hour."
"This spot with the [trees/architecture] is perfect for a few shots."
Their Interactions
"I love how naturally you two hold hands."
"The way you just whispered to her was so sweet, do it again!"
"That giggle fit was amazing, let's try to get another!"
Progress & Encouragement
"You two are absolute naturals!"
"These are looking incredible so far!"
"That last pose was perfect, let's try one similar over here."
Fun, Lighthearted Prompts (To Spark Reactions)
“Whisper the funniest thing you can think of in their ear."
"Okay, stare deeply into each other's eyes... now whoever blinks first has to do the dishes for a week!"
"Give me your best supermodel smile... now give me your goofiest face!" "Imagine I just told you the funniest joke you've ever heard!"
For Kids
"What's your favourite dinosaur?"
"Can you show me your superhero pose?"
"Do you think Mom/Dad is ticklish?"
Gentle, Action-Oriented Direction (Phrased as Conversation)
Instead of: "Turn your head left."
Try: "Hey [Name], could you gently turn your chin towards that big tree? Perfect! Now give me a tiny smile just thinking about [Partner/Child]."
Instead of: "Put your hand there."
Try: "Okay [Name], let's have you rest your hand lightly right here on their shoulder, like that... feels natural? Great."
"Walk towards me slowly, just chatting to each other like you're sharing a secret... ignore me completely."
"Pull each other close like you're trying to stay warm... now [Name 1], look at me while [Name 2] looks right at you and smiles." (Creates connection).
Reassurance & Managing Expectations
"Don't worry about the camera, just focus on each other."
"There's no right or wrong way to pose, we'll find what feels good for you."
"If something feels awkward, just tell me! We'll adjust."
"Trust me, I've got you. You look amazing."
Specific Nuances for Wedding Days
Focus on the Couple & Celebration
"How are you *feeling* right now? Taking it all in?" (Morning prep).
"What moment are you most looking forward to today?" (Calms nerves).
"Tell me about your vows!" (Emotional connection).
"Describe your first dance song choice!" (Excitement).
Comment on details
"Your flowers are breathtaking!"
"The way your veil catches the light is magical."
Family/Group Management
Be directive but polite: "Okay folks, let's get Grandma front and center! Everyone squeeze in tight and give me big smiles!"
Use humor
"Alright team, we need maximum joy for 30 seconds! Ready... GO!"
Praise their cooperation
"You guys are the best group ever! Amazing!"
Timeline & Flow
Gentle reminders: "We're doing great on time, just a few more here, then we'll head to the next spot."
Check in: "Do you need a quick water break or touch-up before we move?"
Only do this at a natural break in the session.
Reassure: "I’ve allowed for this to take a little longer, so don't worry."
Capture Candid Moments
Encourage interaction: "Just keep chatting while I move around you."
"Pretend I'm not here."
Specific Nuances for Portrait Sessions
Deeper Dive into Personality
"What's something people might not guess about you?"
"What are you passionate about right now?"
Focus on Individual Comfort
Constantly check in: "How's this angle feeling?"
"Do you prefer smiling or more serious?"
Posing Refinement
Offer more detailed, gentle adjustments:
"Push your chin just a whisper forward... yes!"
"Let's try shifting your weight to your back foot."
For Families with Kids
Engage kids directly
"Can you show me how fast you can run to that tree and back?"
"What's the silliest noise you can make?"
If you can make small children laugh, the session will be easy. To keep the attention of children up to 2 years old, try a Shutter Hugger. It’s a toy that fits around your lens.
Encourage parent-child interaction
"Mom, whisper what you love most about [Child]."
"Dad, toss [Child] up in the air!"
Be patient, flexible, and embrace the chaos sometimes!
For Seniors
Focus on achievements, future plans, hobbies. Compliment their style choices. Be patient and encouraging.
What to AVOID
Controversial Topics
Politics, religion, and sensitive current events.
Negative Comments
About their appearance, location, weather (unless lighthearted), and other vendors.
Overly Personal/Intrusive Questions
Finances, relationship problems, and deep family drama.
Monopolizing the Conversation (this is a biggy)
It's about *them*, not you (unless they ask).
Even if you’ve had a similar experience, keep it to yourself.
Like I said, it’s about them.
Forced or Fake Compliments, be genuine.
Excessive Technical Talk
Don't confuse or bore them with camera settings.
Dead Silence
Try to keep the energy flowing, even with quiet moments.
If you're changing your angle or your settings, talk to them as you do it. You don't want them standing there for too long, wondering if they should be doing something different.
Okay, so let’s go through the …
Key Principles
Listen Actively
Respond to what they say; build on it.
Read the Room
Adjust your energy and topics to match the client(s). Some want constant chatter, and others prefer quiet focus.
Be Authentic
Your personality should shine through (professionally).
Silence is Okay (Briefly)
Quiet moments are okay. Don't feel you *must* fill every second.
Your Voice is a Tool
Use tone (warm, encouraging, calm, excited) to influence mood.
By controlling the conversation during sessions, you create a more enjoyable experience for your clients, and in the end, you’ll capture far more authentic, emotional, and stunning photographs.
Right, I hope you find my ideas helpful.
I’ll be back soon with more waffle. In the meantime, you can find me in the Facebook group.
Talk to you soon, bye.