How to encourage your photography clients to finalise their product order
Practical ways to guide your photography clients from “we’re thinking about it” to “we’re so glad we did this”. You’ve delivered a beautiful gallery, and your couple was over the moon. They said they were interested in ordering an album but weeks (or even months) have passed, and there’s been radio silence.
If this sounds familiar, you are not alone. Life gets busy. Decision fatigue sets in. And when there’s no pressure to act, album orders often get pushed to the bottom of the to-do list. But the truth is, most clients do want a beautiful, tangible reminder of their day; they just need a little help getting there.
So, as a photographer, how do you encourage your photography clients to move from intention to action without sounding pushy? Here are a few ways to encourage clients to finalise their product order.
5 tips to turn album interest from clients into confirmed orders
1. Communicate firm deadlines
Deadlines are powerful marketing tools that can ensure timely decisions. They help clients make decisions, prioritise the process, and feel a sense of momentum. If your clients believe they can order “any time”, it becomes “no time.”
At the start of the process, clearly outline deadlines:
- A date to select their favourite images
- A deadline to approve the album design can help streamline the workflow.
- A final cutoff to receive the album by a certain occasion (like Christmas, anniversaries or birthdays or even price increase)
If you’re already halfway through the ordering process and your clients are still dragging their feet, don’t worry it’s not too late to set a deadline. Your next email could simply say: “If we get your album order and design finalised by next Friday, we’ll still be on track for it to arrive by your first wedding anniversary. After that, we’ll need to look at later delivery options.” You can also use deadline based incentives, like free upgrades to encourage them to finalise their product order.
2. Make the next step simple for your photography clients so they can finalise their product order easily
Often, clients stall because they’re not sure what to do next or it feels like too much work. Simplify the process as much as you can by clearly outlining the steps to order your products. Instead of saying, “Let me know when you’re ready to order”, guide them with clear, bite sized steps.
Try messages like “The next step is really simple, just send your 60-80 favourite images. If you’re not sure how to choose, I can help narrow it down or do a first draft for you. I’ve attached a short form for your cover preferences. Once I have that and your image choices, we’re ready to go.” Every time you remove a barrier, you make it easier for clients to finalise their product order.
3. Offer products that add value without selling
Some clients need a little incentive to take the plunge. You don’t need to offer big discounts to motivate them, just a thoughtful touch can make the difference.
Ideas include:
- An extra spread included in the price
- A free upgrade on cover material or personalisation
- Some free fine art prints for framing in their home or as gifts to loved ones
Present it as a thank you, not a hard sell: “I’ve opened up a few spots this month for album orders and would love to offer you some free fine art prints perfect for framing or as a gift to loved ones, if we confirm your order by next Friday. It’s just a little extra to say thank you for letting me be part of your day.”
4. Follow up with purpose – managing your photography customers
Following up can feel awkward, but when done with care and intention, it’s actually great customer service and an opportunity to discuss their expectations. You’re simply helping your client get something they already said they wanted.
Be personal and specific: “I just wanted to check in and see if you had a chance to choose your favourite images. I know life gets busy, happy to help with the selection if that’s a bit overwhelming!”
Or: “We’re nearly there with your design, if we get approval this week, we’ll still be within the timeframe for your album to arrive before Christmas, ready to share with your loved ones over the festive period. Let me know if you have any questions or want to make tweaks.” Gentle reminders with clear direction can really help your photography clients finalise their product order.
5. Bring back the excitement of print
If you haven’t heard from your client in a while, don’t go quiet; instead, initiate a conversation that goes emotional. Reconnect them to the joy of their wedding day. Reshare a few favourites from their gallery or send a shot message like: “I was just looking back through your gallery and got emotional all over again, your first look still gives me chills. Thought you might love a little throwback!” It’s a simple way to rekindle their excitement and remind them why an album is worth completing.
Remember you’re not being pushy, you’re being helpful
Helping your clients finalise their product order or album isn’t about pressure. It’s about making the process easier, more enjoyable, and more meaningful. A beautiful, handcrafted album is a gift to their future selves, and you’re the expert guiding them there.
The next time a photography client goes quiet or delays a decision, try one of these approaches. Because once they’re holding their album in their hands, they’ll be so glad they did, and you will be too.
For more photography business tips, why not check out our blog post about setting business goals for 2025
Images featured by Eve Hopkinson Photography and D&A Studio