We’ve all been there—a moment when we wish we could hit the rewind button and get a second chance. Maybe it’s a conversation that didn’t go as planned or, in our case, an unexpected reaction to those pesky plastic ponchos on a trip to Niagara Falls. Who knew a simple walk near the Falls could lead to a not-so-fun souvenir in the form of an itchy rash? Sometimes, a do-over would be so sweet!
In photography, do-overs aren’t just about fixing mistakes; they’re about getting it right the first time. Over nearly 20 years in the business, we’ve had very few clients ask for a reshoot. How have we managed that? By focusing on clear communication and setting expectations from the get-go. We realized early on that by providing simple guidelines, tips, and FAQs before the shoot, we could significantly improve client satisfaction and reduce the need for do-overs.
The Importance of Setting Expectations
Setting expectations is crucial in any business, but it’s especially important in photography. We take the time to discuss the vision for the shoot, even go over some dos and don’ts to help everyone feel prepared. This approach doesn’t just lead to better photos—it leads to happier clients.
Why Do-Overs Are Rare
Do-overs in photography usually happen when there’s a mismatch between expectations and reality. Maybe the lighting wasn’t quite right, or the mood of the shoot didn’t match what the client envisioned. While we can’t control every variable, we can control how well we prepare. That’s why we spend time getting to know our clients, understanding their goals, and planning every detail of the shoot. This careful preparation is what keeps our do-over rate so low.
What’s Your Do-Over?
We all have moments when we wish we could try again. Whether it’s in your personal life or your business, do-overs can be a powerful learning tool. They remind us to prepare better, communicate more clearly, and sometimes, just to take a deep breath and laugh it off.
So, when’s the last time you wanted a do-over? And how do you set expectations in your business to make sure you get it right the first time?
Remember, in photography—as in life—preparation is key. And while do-overs are rare, they’re always an opportunity to learn and grow.
If you’re looking to capture moments that won’t need a do-over, we’d love to help! Reach out to us today to schedule your shoot and be sure to check us out on social media for more tips and inspiration.
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Co-owner of Headshots NYC, Deutsch Photography & Gotham Family Photos. Lover of images & the stories they tell. Fanatic about words, numbers & patterns. Entrepreneur & adventurer w/keen wanderlust. Life/love/business partner of my husband, photographer Brett Deutsch. Eternal love affair with NYC, where I landed by way of GA, TX & CA.
