In Part 1 of this educational series Tips for Bringing in Some Income, we provided you with a number of ways you can generate earnings as a photographer during this COVID-19 crisis.
The question remains, how can you best navigate communicating with your clients?
If you are not yet in contact with your clients, we encourage you to be proactive and get in touch with them sooner than later. They will more than likely appreciate the fact that you took the initiative to reach out to them.
First of all, it is important to keep front of mind that it is a difficult situation for both parties involved. Therefore, work together to find a suitable solution, given the circumstances.
Points that you may consider discussing:
1. Postpone, don’t cancel
In this situation, it is advisable to reschedule the wedding, there is no need to cancel it indefinitely. At the end of the day, they do want to get married and celebrate their love. You can suggest to them to get in touch with their vendors and the venue in time in order to increase the chances of finding a date (e.g. next year) where all parties involved can take part.
2. Celebration alternatives
Depending on the guidelines put forth by the government in regards to social distancing / quarantine, perhaps the following can be viable options to explore:
i. Elopement
The couple can consider eloping this year, and then throwing a bigger party next year. You can create a special package tailored to their needs.
ii. Intimate Wedding
At one point this year, it might even be possible to have a ceremony with just the closest family members and friends present.
In addition, you can film or live-stream the vows being exchanged (e.g. using a tripod).
3. Payment
We cannot offer any legal advice here when it comes to payments and contracts. This is a point that you can look over with an accountant and a lawyer.From our perspective, the best course of action is to openly communicate with your couples and find a mutually satisfactory solution. Bear in mind that the financial struggles go both ways – couples are also facing many challenges. By handling the question of money delicately, there is a lot of value in coming out of this crisis with your good name and brand intact.
That being said, it is important to review (when applicable) the following points:
- Retainer / deposit
- Cancellation policy
- Rescheduling policy
Did we miss anything? What has your experience been in communicating with your clients? Let us know by hopping over to our Facebook Group (Beloved Stories Community).
