How to React to Clients who Say "Your Price is Too High!" (Photography)

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How many times have you heard "You're too expensive!" Or "This other photographer charges way less than you do, can I get your services for cheaper?"
This exists in every business, not just boudoir photography, but wedding photography, portrait photography and outside of that so many other service jobs. I feel for you. It can be hard to maintain your confidence when someone is saying that you are not worth it.
I wanted to share my typical response when someone tells me this. It isn't rude, it isn't full of guilt, it is just a simple admission that boudoir photography IS expensive and there are other photographers out there that are cheaper and that is totally fine, but that is not you. I hope this helps out your boudoir business!! I know it has helped mine a bunch.
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• What is the best Boudo...

[@MichaelSasser]

I’ve had a number of people say to various degrees “I wouldn’t spend that much money with you, your pictures aren’t that good.” If this is your response, you aren’t understanding the photography business, let me explain. 1. My goal is to book about 20% of the people who inquire with me. Being a LUXURY business means not everyone can afford you, or see your value. Could you imagine if Porsche tried to make a car that EVERYONE would buy? 2. You are not my target market. Not all women are my target market, or all women with money, or all women in LA. My goal is for 50-60 women every year who value photography and are looking for an experience that will have an emotional impact on their life to hire me. So it doesn’t surprise me at all that you wouldn’t spend that much money with me. I suggest you really focus on what your IDEAL CLIENT values and put your time and energy there and don’t be afraid for people to say you’re too expensive! Thanks for watching!

[@liquidmocofilmsllc4915]

1. Comparing your photography to a German engineered Porsche? Really. You really are cocky without merit. 2. Yeah, that's my point, there a dozens of more talented photographers than you. You just sell your clients on the bullshit. Kudos to your marketing skills which are a lot better than your photography skills. I don't have to understand photography you nitwit to criticize, just like a person in the market for a Porsche doesn't have to understand the sophisticated engineering behind the machine to form an opinion of the vehicle. If you don't like a comment then don't put your shit out there like you are the all knowing photographer. Confidence is one thing, but you are outright cocky like Jason.

[@santhoshcr5453]

Can I work near u bro...

[@Truthseeker1961]

@Al Castill I hear ya...They'll pay more than 7 bucks for a crappy movie as well, not including also paying for the popcorn that's already marked up at around 300%.

[@stealthstar4]

If someone short changes your work, you can give them the same value but minus certain things. They could lose retouch privileges...., you could shoot for lesser time instead of the time that was provided for the original service package..., and so forth.

[@jaythevision]

@@liquidmocofilmsllc4915 SHAAAAADDDDD UP!

[@addachymedia]

“My prices are based on my talent, not your budget”

[@MichaelSasser]

Yes!

[@artbylarsen]

Or hard work. A talent is something that comes without practice, right? Or am I way off here? lol I think they are both valued based on the results one gets :D

[@addachymedia]

Art By Larsen you are right as well! Hard work! But for myself making music videos has to have talent. Then hard work!

[@DoctorChurrasco]

Shoots in automatic

[@anfff]

Why are the prints more expensive? The talent you pay for during the shoot?

[@rangermadeknives]

I am a maker of high end custom folding knives. There was a point in my journey, years ago, where my skills had hit a level that I really had to start charging more for my pieces. I had quite a few people shocked at what my prices were. Eventually, I reached a point that my name is well enough known and the quality and materials are obviously pricey and I never hear that they are too expensive anymore. What I do hear is, "I wish I could afford one of your knives".

[@MichaelSasser]

HELL YESS THIS IS AMAZING I LOVE THIS!

[@okeezeartography]

Rah

[@lovewroteme]

Exactly

[@NicoleJones-kn1wf]

This is how all artist no matter what they are making should be told!

[@rossbrownsdon3581]

Great video! I've learned from experience that the people who debate with you on your initial price, won't stop there. They will often be rude and ungrateful, want more than you offer at reduced rates, or even for free, and basically be a complete nightmare to work with. Anyone who does not accept your prices initially is unwittingly revealing themselves as a red flag whose business is not worth pursuing.

[@souravrahman2654]

I'm not a photographer ... I don't have a camera... I have class in the morning... and yet I'm watching this video at 2.14 am .... phewwww

[@dailymorgan6957]

😂😂 squad😂

[@PumaM90]

Try it as a hobby. Don't make it expensive and just buy used gear. Ex. Canon 5D (classic) - $250 Canon 50mm 1.8 - $80

[@ivenxmusic]

i feel you

[@HyperNawab]

@@PumaM90 canon 5d at $250 seriously where?

[@MuhammadSoroya]

thank you for reminding me that I'm on the same boat

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey everyone! I want to sincerely thank everyone who helped out with getting this audio fixed. I FINALLY figured out the problem thanks to you all. I love this community and I appreciate how much you guys are here for me, and I want to try to be there for you as much as I can! Enjoy this new video!!!

[@artbylarsen]

Great! It was really slashing through my head and my ears were running loops around my head lol

[@jacopieterse138]

How can we contact you if we have other questions about Boudoir Photography ?

[@RyoHazuki224]

I wish I had a market where I lived that can afford even half that of what you charge, Michael. Sadly, in my state we just simply don't have that many people with that much disposable income. We aren't poor, but we are definitely among those where a ton of people are living paycheck to paycheck, and where a $500 emergency bill will devastate them, much less dropping that much on a photoshoot session, without all those extras. I would feel bad and not be able to justify having my prices at even half of yours. I know I gotta price myself for my market. Could you maybe touch on something like that, like how to justify your prices dependent on your local market? I know something like that would be difficult because you live on the west coast. But perhaps if you had some input from some of us across the country that might help? I'm just spitballing here :) Your content is always great, Michael, keep it up!

[@olitaggu9333]

Hey man can u check out my Instagram Talitggu88 and give your critique please. its only mobile photography with little to no edit. (And my phone cost 190$ sooooo yeah i am poor as shit)

[@MichaelSasser]

Hey! Thanks for the long comment. I know these prices seem high and they are. I believe that in most places there are people with money that they can spend. In my accelerator course I talk about how I started at $200 for a shoot and $300 for an album, and grew from there, slowly increasing prices with every two clients. No one is going to believe you are worth what you charge if you don't.

[@MikeJones-vb1me]

Solid. Coming from photography I definitely ran into this a lot, and now in my new career (custom knife making) it certainly rings true just as much.

[@ForeverTJTigress]

“You know my camera cost more than a tiny car” idk why that has me weak 😂

[@JitDawgBruhDang]

What he said is golden! Once you start working with shitty clients, you keep getting clients like that... The best thing to do for your business is charge more instead of less and increase the value to your clients

[@mikeuptonphoto]

This is something I learned when selling electronics, and again when I was selling financial products. They used to drill into our heads that if someone says something is too expensive, it's often indicative that you haven't quite explained the value of the product or service enough. When I started photography, I saw every rejection as an opportunity to re-evaluate the value I bring to the table. Still do. There will always be people who want what you can do for less than you're willing to do it, but if they want you and not just anyone, you may have to remind them why they want you.

[@MichaelSasser]

Amen Mike! Thanks for sharing some knowledge!

[@pussgato9660]

Oh my god you can actually apply this to every business! Love it!

[@MichaelSasser]

Right?!

[@LeeMediatv]

Michael Sasser, thanks for the tips. this was very helpful. I deal with clients like this all the time. And it really annoys me when some clients aren't willing to pay quality money for the quality work that they so desire. Sounds like you have some great practical experience and education in the photography business. Your business course is a MUST SIGN UP FOR!

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you! I'm glad this was helpful!

[@SidneyDiongzon]

This is great dude!! I agree 100% with everything you've said. Subbed :)

[@WilliamBurdine]

Quality topic, great general pricing advice for ANYone in Business Services

[@BeauWhately]

That reenactment is comedy gold Michael, well done!

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks!

[@okeezeartography]

I agree lol "the-price-just-DOUBLED” I cackled

[@TheClifflawson]

What an awesome video! Way too often I feel like "chasing" someone! Looking back, those sessions are never my favorite ones! Cool to see how much you have grown in your channel! Keep up the good work!

[@stephanest.george302]

As always thanks again for sharing and putting yourself out there. Have a great day Michael.

[@chardonwaite]

You broke this down so well. An every day situation that is so awkward most people unfortunately crumble. Great advice an information thank you.

[@esvignettes7592]

Great video and thanks for covering such a common question.

[@Shingie]

this is really great advise man. its so easy to talk about all the money you spent on gear and process. THANKS!

[@dvdpz89]

“I have to get new shirts for my KZbin channel” lmao

[@NickedOff]

I just did similar video about people's negative perspectives when it comes to working photographers/artists. There is definitely a disconnect from the amount of time shoots/editing, pre-production, etc, as well as the cost and time it has taken to grow your skill sets and equipment. Good info and well delivered! Thanks for adding the perspective from the artist's point of view.

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@iforgotmyusername0]

Bravo! More photography channels here should be like this guy.. stop pushing gear and actually give info that actually helps other photographers.

[@Cold417]

If they stop pushing gear and filler blab, how do you expect them to keep sponsors and showcase their stock music?

[@iforgotmyusername0]

@@Cold417 lol

[@haze3522]

I like how you can apply these concepts to essentially anything you value

[@ReidLucier]

THE PRICE JUST DOUBLED!! Haha. That part just killed me. I'd love to say that sometimes!

[@MikeChudley]

Brilliant video, hit the nail on the head.

[@wetcolorsgo]

Just saw this video by chance but I would thank you for these tips. I am a graphic designer, but customers often say the same things to me and sometimes it's hard to find a good way to answer them. This video was very inspiring. Thank you!

[@DevonC]

Your content is GOLD, Michael! Thank you for sharing this. I love how your advice works not only for boudoir photographers but for any other photographer too :)

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks Devon!!

[@TheWooleybooger]

Always great content from your channel thank you. Those chocolates from TJ’s do work!

[@amine090909]

Super great video!! Great value out of it! Your positivity is inspiring!! 👍😁 thank you

[@KokoroNoSama]

This has been that mood for a month and you've helped out so much!

[@MichaelSasser]

Hehe

[@toxicronin]

soo true ... thanks for sharing michael

[@MawiyahJ]

You’re hilarious 😂 and SUPER helpful. Loved it. Thank you.

[@Maxmilion6004]

This just made me realize that my journey in sales isnt over. I appreciate you making this video. Thank you so much

[@MichaelSasser]

You got this!

[@ldmortarion]

Thanks for sharing these recommandations ! as usual your video is great and the infos are great !

[@Lorenzopphotography]

Thank you for sharing your experience

[@rob8030]

I have bought the course and it has been amazing! If any of you are hesitant on whether to pull the trigger, do it!

[@MichaelSasser]

That is so awesome to hear Rob! You got this!

[@AndyDay]

Great vid, solid advice. Thanks for putting this together.

[@brucecaines8099]

Such a good video! And thank you for validating the responses I've given to potential clients (and the ones only in my head where I tell them "the price just DOUBLED)! To your point, one client, who didn't want to spend a lot of money ended up booking a full fee session AND spent over $2500 in product. She told me one particular image was the most beautiful photograph of her she had ever seen. That makes up for the people who want the $1.99 special!

[@MichaelSasser]

I love to hear this!

[@rashelrene6725]

You are the best! And by that I mean in regards to how you add comedy into your videos! I love that!

[@jawarablake]

thank you, I needed this these days. Very helpful because I want to freak out on them.

[@KenHollowayshow]

Great video Michael, thanks. Your videos are awesome, and I highly recommend your accelerator course for anyone who hasn't tried it yet. Tons of value.

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks Ken!

[@ChrstianW.S.]

Wow. Thank you for sharing this / your experience in this field with us!! That’s very helpful!

[@TheIslandPeach]

I’m actually dead laughing at the little bit you did 😂😂😂 oh my god Michael!!

[@busansanai]

I've been in the KZbin spiral for weddings and I don't know how I got into the boudoir, but the value of this video is great and is applicable anywhere. (and I have a valid reason to tell my girlfriend when she questions why I'm looking at boudoir.................and not die.)

[@DonaldSimsProduction]

Well spoken. Thank you for sharing.

[@andrescolintv]

Awesome work!

[@photographynerd5639]

*_"People spend money on what they value, not necessary on how much they have."_* This is the most important takeaway from this video because it really is true. It applies to anything and everything a person consumes, whether it is clothing, a vehicle, service or food. For some people a McDonalds Big Mac is good enough, others will value a restaurant-grade gourmet burger. For some people, a cell phone camera is good enough, but for many of us, there will never be a substitute for a good professional camera. It all comes down to what we value. BTW, I love those Peanut Butter Cups too! Aldi, Trader Joe's sister store also carries them and I cannot help myself not buying a bag before I checkout. 😋

[@MichaelSasser]

Thanks so much! And yes, those peanut butter cups are the best!

[@MissAngelaCruz]

“People don’t value what they don’t invest”..yes, I’ve said that and it was empowering! Oh and they ended up hiring me and got the results they wanted!

[@MichaelSasser]

You get it!

[@MissAngelaCruz]

@@MichaelSasser Thank you!

[@AstroSirrus]

Thanks for sharing! This is very valuable!

[@mattmatti3525]

$10 for a spinner wtf

[@joshuadxlee]

Matt Matti yeah, and 20 years ago 😨

[@jholid6y]

Luxury spinner

[@FernandoHStahelin]

it's all about the experience

[@gumbynomad]

This was a huge help, thanks for posting!

[@jacobrobertdesio9265]

This is spot on for photographers and videographers. Great video

[@MichaelSasser]

Yesss!

[@valerieprudon4042]

You nailed the acting part!!! Loved the video, as usual.

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, thanks Valerie, Hopefully it gets better as I do more!

[@StazASMR]

i needed to hear this.. thank u!

[@wayneplayz3949]

Thank you so much for this! I never thought about in this perspective! Thank you again!

[@MichaelSasser]

So glad!

[@locovidepro]

Great information Michael, this is really something that has happen to me few times already. Also, it is truth that sometimes we get to take some low profit but also when there is a way that we as photographers or videographers can or will benefit from it. Just as you, I had the opportunity of filming in Paris two years ago. I accepted a low rate of $300 a day, but like you said, they cover all the expenses and I had a great time. Wonderful hotel, food and a wonderful dinner at the end of the shooting. Plus the reputation and fame of been filming in Paris. Thank you so much for your videos, I will take more time soon to watch some more of them. Sincerely. JN

[@MichaelSasser]

Bingo!

[@victoria6140]

I think some of your advises is good for artist too, I'm so happy that I can find your video. Thank you.

[@OmiSido]

Mate, I love your thinking 👏👍

[@lindasmal5051]

Really lovin' your videos and this one specifically helped me out so much! Thanks!!!!

[@MichaelSasser]

That’s great to hear Linda!!

[@AfiKreative]

This is some very good insight. Thank you. It's a bit alarming when a lot of photgraphers where I am race to the bottom as much as they can so that they can undercut the next photgrapher.

[@aristomenis_k]

Excellent info, thank you!

[@michaelrayshard4368]

I really enjoyed the skit at the beginning. Hilarious!

[@EdwardKilner]

Exceptionally well done.

[@breeandstephen9321]

hahahah those trader joe’s peanut butter cups are the dankest! great video and super informative!

[@roknrexstudio]

I love this video, great advice that can translate to other businesses as well. I really hate the hagglers and this is a great strategy.

[@DrigordYT]

I'm music producer and i also can apply this to my work, keep a good work!

[@photographybydash]

This video hit home. Glad I came across this video 💪🏾

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad it was helpful!

[@jarcho86]

This happened to me all the time... thanks for sharing

[@PeterKramm]

I'm actually hugging my monitor - this is F GOLD!

[@MichaelSasser]

Lol, thanks Peter!

[@TeamJeTiYugioh]

if they dont say your price is too high, ur price is too low. that easy..:)

[@truecalidad]

Great advice, thank you so much for creating this!

[@RobertHamm]

Excellent advice.

[@prewishjay5581]

i needed this one

[@ofthenile86]

This was great man, always something i struggle with

[@ravszee]

I see a M. Sasser video I like before I watch. Quality 💯

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, thank you Ravidu!

[@wildlifebybrianhoule]

I really enjoy your points of view based on your experiences. The most important point, imho, from what you've said is value. I think the internet has decreased how people perceive value. Those people think they can find someone cheaper and they also don't understand value. Great job at reinforcing the value points to position. It's such a critical point for a business owner. You need to have the confidence to stick to your guns, position the value you bring and what you can do for your client.

[@carbolicsoap]

Thank goodness you re-uploaded.

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank you for your patience!

[@sebastianfurst3057]

Your channel is pure Gold Michael! I'm not even into Boudoir yet (later this year having my first shoots) but your education / tips are really useful. Greetings from 🇨🇭

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad it has helped!

[@ReconVette19D]

Lol yup! I'm the guy in a small rental with a sports car, glad to know this perspective though, just had business photos taken and it was more than the average person thinks it will be. Worth the perfection though!

[@thatsjacked]

im watching this in a crowded airport and it got real awkward around 1.15min

[@MichaelSasser]

I can't work on my images in airports anymore, so I just have to find something else to keep me busy 🤣🤣🤣

[@dennishyun7173]

Really felt the chocolate part~~!!!

[@ManyWaysFilms]

Great video, great information!!

[@eboogiethevisualstoryteller]

I appreciate the share and the knowledge! I love your videos! Thank you.

[@MichaelSasser]

Glad you like them!

[@aronfarkas4874]

Great content! Thank you!

[@longislandboudoirphotography]

WORD man!!! You are da bomb! :D Mike - I adore you!

[@valdemarcaballero5298]

loved the video, loved the advise. Thank you. Thanks for sharing!!!!

[@MichaelSasser]

You're welcome!

[@aalokghimire]

Great tips!

[@DavePruett]

Excellent video and good advice for almost anyone selling a service. Loved the comedy sketch. Of course, the most valuable advice was about those dark chocolate peanut butter cups.

[@MichaelSasser]

Always! Gotta calm down some how!

[@artbylarsen]

Oh, new upload - cool! As I said on the other video I shared this video in a photographer group where this topic comes along quite often. I'm sure it will be of help to some of us, if not many. Thanks! =)

[@oussamaaityassin5193]

thank youuuu for the advice

[@dogoodjonathan]

I'm not even a photographer and I love this guy!

[@MichaelSasser]

Haha, thanks Jonathan for all the help!

[@leafsfan71]

This is such a good video. Really brought some insight and some great, well thought out responses.

[@MichaelSasser]

Thank so mcuh!

[@erskinhansen1715]

I nearly died when he had that initial reaction LOL

[@najadadavis]

Great video. Thanks for that nugget

[@bwedesign]

Good advice, and not just for photography. I'm a self employed architect and this applies to my business too. In fact I've used some of these responses (just altered a little for my business). If you work for yourself these are not just good skills to have but indispensable.

[@MichaelSasser]

Beautiful, I love to hear this!

[@GhananiePhotography]

my vim has just gone up! now i can confidently face my clients in terms of pricing. thanks Michael

[@MichaelSasser]

Happy to hear it!

[@invi_carlos]

Well done. Thank you. I am about to submit for a big job and this helps me soo much.

[@MichaelSasser]

Good luck!

[@Dwayne_Hall]

Very helpful thank you

[@aaronsidealsphotography7391]

When Michael started the video with "OK" I had to follow up with " I WAS GONE FOR A MINUTE BUT IM BACK NOW!!"