Diego Maldonado

Presenting Yourself Professionally 

• Confidence is Key: Project confidence from the start. Introduce yourself clearly and concisely, stating your profession and your interest in working with the client.
• Be Prepared for Questions: Anticipate questions about your experience, portfolio, and pricing. Have clear and concise answers ready, and be prepared to showcase your work.

Navigating the Pricing Conversation

• Project-Based Pricing: When asked about your rates, emphasize that pricing depends on the specific project, client expectations, and your costs (travel, pre-production, post-production).
• Understand Client Needs: Ask clarifying questions to understand the client's budget, expectations, and desired usage of the images. This information will help you tailor your pricing and services accordingly.
• Retainer Fees and Ongoing Projects: For long-term clients or recurring projects, consider proposing a retainer fee structure. This provides consistent income and streamlines the collaboration process.

Delivering Value and Managing Expectations

• Clarify Image Usage: Understand how the client intends to use your images (social media, website, print, etc.). This will determine the appropriate file format, resolution, and level of post-production required.
• Address Client Concerns: Be prepared to address concerns about your pricing, especially if a client mentions cheaper alternatives. Emphasize the value you bring: your unique style, professionalism, and commitment to quality.
• Negotiation Strategies: If a client pushes back on your pricing, consider offering options:
  • Package Deals: Offer different packages with varying levels of service and pricing.
  • Limited Usage Rights: Offer a lower price for limited usage rights (e.g., web-only use).
  • Payment Plans: Offer flexible payment options to accommodate budget constraints.